Founder of veterans’ charity awarded Honorary Fellowship by University of Salford
During this week’s graduation celebrations, the University of Salford awarded Mark Airey BEM an Honorary Fellowship in recognition of his outstanding contributions to military rehabilitation and veteran support.
Mark’s career spans military service, academic achievement, and humanitarian leadership. Beginning as an Army vehicle mechanic and physical training instructor, he later earned a first-class degree in Sports Rehabilitation from the University of Salford. His expertise shaped future professionals during nearly a decade as a lecturer.
Mark’s impact was most profound during the Afghanistan conflict, where he served as Lead Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre. There, he pioneered innovative recovery programmes for severely injured service members, setting new standards in military rehabilitation.
Furthering his commitment, Mark founded Team True Spirit, enabling injured personnel to train for Ironman triathlons – initiatives that inspired resilience and launched several Paralympic careers. In 2017, he was awarded the British Empire Medal for services to wounded service and veteran personnel. His work continued with Help for Heroes, where he led physical wellbeing programmes, and today he serves as Lead Civilian Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor at the Regional Rehabilitation Unit in Catterick.
On receiving his Honorary Fellowship, Mark said: “Receiving this Honorary Fellowship is one of the proudest moments of my life. It feels incredibly special to be recognised by the very university that helped shape my career and my purpose. Supporting others through rehabilitation and challenge has always been a privilege, and this award reflects the journey of everyone who’s walked beside me along the way.”
Professor Vicky Halliwell, PVC Dean of the School of Health and Society said: “The University of Salford has a strong heritage of working with uniformed services and veterans, both through physical rehabilitation programmes and through projects such as exploring the benefits of a trauma-informed approach to the welfare benefits system. Our research is breaking down barriers, building social justice and fostering a fairer and more inclusive community where opportunity and equity thrive for all.
“We are delighted to honour Mark’s work with this Honorary Fellowship and look forward to continuing to work alongside him to inspire and support the health and wellbeing professionals of tomorrow.”
Picture caption: Mark Airey pictured with University of Salford Chancellor Lucy Meacock
