When RAAus Chief Operating Officer Ben Lambon set out to launch the fundraising challenge Fly. Ride. Remember,, he wanted to honour service and sacrifice in a way that combined his love of flight, his drive for challenge and his commitment to supporting fellow veterans.
The event featured three legs, Fly, Cycle and Run, that were completed by the veteran and pilot to symbolise the journey of resilience and transition veterans undertake as they rebuild their lives.
Now that the challenge has been completed, Ben’s vision has become a story of extraordinary determination and impact – one that captured the attention of veterans, supporters and organisations across Australia.
Giving back
Ben took off from Canberra in his light aircraft at sunrise on Thursday 30 October, flew to Goulburn, then cycled more than 100 kilometres back to the capital before running the final 10 kilometres to finish at the Australian War Memorial – all to raise funds and awareness for Soldier On.
‘It started as a personal challenge,’ Ben said in the lead-up to his preparation for the event. ‘But it quickly became about something bigger – about connection, community and giving back.’
Support for the challenge came from across Australia, as Ben shared his progress online as he completed each stage.
‘When you’re out there, you have a lot of time to think,’ Ben said. ‘You think about the people you’ve served with, the ones we’ve lost, and the importance of keeping their memories alive. That’s what this was always about.’
Supporting the HELP model
The Fly. Ride. Remember challenge raised vital funds for Soldier On’s programs, helping veterans and their families access support through its HELP model that comprises Health and wellbeing services, Employment support, Learning and education pathways and opportunities to Participate and connect socially.
‘It’s not just about the physical challenge,’ Ben said. ‘It’s about showing that we can all do something – no matter how small – to remember those who’ve served and to help those who are still finding their way after service.’
At Goulburn…a moment to remember
When Ben Lambon landed at Goulburn Airport mid-challenge, Soldier On hosted a special breakfast to welcome him and celebrate his progress. Veterans, supporters, and local community members gathered to share stories and cheer him on before he set off on the next leg of Fly. Ride. Remember.
The achievement also drew recognition from Soldier On’s leadership, who praised Ben’s creativity and dedication in raising awareness for the veteran community.
Soldier On CEO Paul Singer said ‘Ben’s initiative reflects the spirit of service that defines Australia’s veteran community’.
‘He’s taken his own experience of service and turned it into something that lifts others up – a real example of mateship in action.’
The annual Remembrance Day Campaign invites everyone to play their own active part in supporting Soldier On by funding specific Soldier On services that actively support veterans and their families.
