VETERAN Martyn Kruck been recognised as an everyday hero by a bank for his work to help returned soldiers dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
The Cleveland man was awarded by QBANK last Friday, where he was pledged a $1000 cash prize and the same amount again for his nominated charity, Veterans Care Association.
The organisation helps returned soldiers – like Mr Kruck – overcome Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and other challenges when returning to civilian life.
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Earlier this year, Mr Kruck raised $10,000 for the cause through his efforts to walk 41-kilometres for 41 days across the Redlands.
He finished the walk at the Cleveland cenotaph in June with ex-paratrooper Steve Scanlon, leaving roses behind for Australian soldiers killed in Afghanistan and those who had died since their return.
QBANK chief executive Mike Currie said work by Mr Kruck and other everyday hero award recipients was to be admired.
“Whilst our category winners come from diverse backgrounds and public service organisations, they share one common thread - they demonstrate selfless commitment to their communities,” he said.
The awards were set up five years ago to recognise efforts by Queensland’s frontline and public service workers to help their community.
Inspiring adults can be nominated for awards in five categories, which are achievement, dedication, excellence, ownership and working together, with separate awards available to youth aged under 17.
Mr Kruck was one of four shortlisted for the ownership award, competing against Queensland Police Service nominees Timothy Brown, Lars Nesbitt and Andrew Finall.
The 42-year-old was recognised for his work to raise awareness of the struggles faced by returned veterans and raise money for Veterans Care Association.
Mr Kruck was enlisted in the Australian Army from 1995 to 2013, serving in East Timor, Bouganville, Solomon Islands, Banda Aceh in Indonesia and Afghanistan.
He was discharged on medical grounds on his return from Afghanistan, after he was diagnosed with PTSD.
