The NW RFCA are thrilled to announce that Andy Reid MBE has joined the Association as our first Ambassador

In October 2009, Corporal Andy Reid MBE stepped on a Taliban improvised explosive device while on patrol in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Injured so badly that it was thought he would not survive, he defied the odds to the extent that, within a month, he was able to meet up with members of his patrol again. Since then, as a triple amputee, he has gone on to carry out many arduous challenges to raise money and give back to the associations that helped him and his family through difficult times. The determination that has seen Andy overcome huge personal battles is now brought to bear in his Standing Tall Foundation. The foundation was established in 2020 and they promote the mental and physical health of not just ex-service personnel but all community groups, through counselling, addiction support and physical activity initiatives.

Talking about his new appointment, Andy said:

“I am honoured to take on this role, it’s a natural fit. The NW RFCA is committed to promoting the Reserve and Cadet experience across the North West and to raising awareness of the regions Defence Community. I will be delighted to attend events, share my story and inspire others to pledge their support through the Armed Forces Covenant”.

Colonel Mark Underhill (retired), NW RFCA Chief executive commented: “We are honoured that Andy Reid has joined the NW RFCA as our first Ambassador and we look forward to working together. He has already achieved so much in supporting the Armed Forces Community and has previously served five years as a Honorary Colonel for Merseyside Army Cadet Force. Andy can advocate for us when he is out and about in his capacity as the lead for the Standing Tall Foundation or attending one of our key engagement events. The Standing Tall Foundation are a Silver Award Employer Recognition Scheme holder and his passion and authenticity to support Defence is outstanding”.

Andy will officially commence his role this autumn in supporting the Association at our prestigious  Lord-Lieutenant Awards. Celebrating outstanding achievements and dedicated service, these awards are recognised as laudatory honours throughout the Ministry of Defence.