THE NISSAN-sponsored trip, Mission Morocco 2012, which saw four injured paratroopers trek across the North African desert on behalf of The Afghanistan Trust, has smashed its target.
Almost £50,000 has been raised for injured paratroopers, their families and the families of those killed in action.
Mission Morocco 2012 was carried out by four inspirational servicemen who have all been injured in the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan and was organised by Nissan, as part of its ongoing commitment to The Parachute Regiment charity.
Two of the soldiers who took part in the trek lost a leg below the knee and all, despite their injuries, are still active in the Regiment.
Supported by a number of Nissan employees, the soldiers spent 14 days trekking in the North African desert after driving in convoy in specially-adapted Nissan Navaras from Merville Barracks in Colchester via Nissan HQ in Rickmansworth.
During their time in the desert, all members of the trip carried out specially-designed challenges, including seeking out a safe house by cover of darkness, carrying out mine clearing exercises, GPS navigation tasks in the Navaras and a 10-mile march.
‘We all feel really proud’
Sergeant Allan Jackson, who was accompanied by colleagues, Private Mark Vidler, Private Patrick Burns, Private Callum Urquhart and trek organiser, Captain Matt Clamp, said: ‘I think Mission Morocco 2012 was one of the most rewarding experiences we’ve all carried out as part of the regiment.
‘It was definitely grueling at times – the 10 mile march especially! Knowing that we’ve smashed the fundraising target we all feel really proud of our achievement and know the money will be well spent. Thanks to everyone who donated.’
Colin Smith MBE, CEO of the Afghanistan Trust, said: ‘We’ve been overwhelmed by the support Mission Morocco has received and despite suffering injuries themselves, these men’s courage and selfless determination to help others in need and their families is inspiring.
‘Working with Nissan this year to reach a fundraising aim of £250,000, Mission Morocco 2012’s success brings us a big step closer to our target.’
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