Wounded soldiers and their families are set to receive a financial boost from Big Fat Ambition, a fundraising initiative launched by founder Mark Elliott. A well-known figure in the oil and gas industry, Elliott gave up his expat job and has committed to losing 30 pounds of bodyweight in order to raise £1 million for two well-established charities that provide support to injured military personnel: “Help for Heroes” in the United Kingdom and the “Wounded Warrior Project” in the USA.

Call for Support from Global Oil & Gas Community

After working for 20 years in the pipeline industry, Elliott, 43, felt it was time to take a career break and give something back. “We don’t always attract the best publicity in the oil and gas industry, and often work alongside members of the armed forces, wherever conflict breaks out. When a country has seen armed conflict, it’s important to get the infrastructure back up and running quickly, which is where the oil and gas industry comes in, particularly the pipeline industry. Pipelines are often the lifeblood of an economy, and an easy target for sabotage,” said Elliott.

“Throughout my career, I’ve learned that despite of some negative press, my industry is full of really great people who are hard-working, resourceful and generous, so I quit my job without fear that this initiative wouldn’t succeed,” he added. “I know there are many people like me who care deeply for the communities around them in areas battered by conflict. I hope that through my efforts, I can give a voice to my colleagues to channel their support and donate to these worthy charities that provide such outstanding support to injured soldiers and those who love them.”

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