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Ghanaian Veteran Coronavirus Fundraiser

Commonwealth Point of Light 144. Joseph Hammond

Private Joseph Hammond, representing Ghana, is a 95-year-old World War Two veteran who has raised over £35,000 for coronavirus charities by walking two miles per day for a week.

Private Joseph Hammond

Inspired by the UK’s Captain Sir Tom Moore, Private Joseph Hammond’s fundraising initiative will be used to purchase personal protection equipment (PPE) for Covid-19 frontline workers and vulnerable veterans in Commonwealth countries.

Iain Walker, UK High Commissioner in Ghana, said:

“Her Majesty The Queen presents Points of Light awards to outstanding volunteers across the Commonwealth who change the lives of their community: Private Hammond exemplifies these qualities.

“I enjoyed being part of Joseph’s walk, joining him to raise funds for veterans and hardworking, frontline health workers coping with the everyday impacts of COVID-19.

“It has been a privilege to get to know Private Hammond and to experience his selflessness. He is a force of nature and an inspiration to many, including me.”

Private Hammond said:

“I was overwhelmed and filled with joy when I heard I have been chosen to be honoured by Her Majesty the Queen. This will linger in my memory forever. I wish to thank the mother of the Commonwealth, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and all those who have made this possible.”

The daily Points of Light award recognises outstanding individual volunteers - people who are making a change in their community.

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