Shropshire’s war hero and Military Cross bearer, Ricky Furgusson, has been chosen to carry the Olympic Cross through his home town.

You can’t keep a good man down! Ricky Furgusson is an inspiration to us all. Not only has he risked his life numerous times to help out his comrades, he’s also overcome injuries and adapted to living without his legs, his left eye and some of his fingers … and all whilst maintaining a positive attitude! We could all take a page of your book, Ricky!

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Shropshire’s Military Cross Hero Ricky Furgusson to Carry Olympic Torch

Military Cross hero Ricky Furgusson has been chosen to carry the Olympic Torch through his hometown of Shropshire.

Furgusson was nominated for this torch bearing role by his friends Gemainea and Melissa Davies.

“No one deserves to carry the Olympic Torch more than Ricky Furgusson. He is an inspiration after suffering horrific injuries in Afghanistan,” said Gemainea Davis.

Melissa Davis agreed stating, “Ricky is a true hero who is passionate about his country and who I believe should hold the Olympic Torch forEngland. Ricky will never walk alone.”

Learning of his Olympic selection, Furgussion said:

“I was delighted to have been asked, it’s an amazing opportunity. I’m looking forward to it.”

Furgusson, a corporal who served in Afghanistan, was awarded the Military Cross for his heroic rescue of fallen comrades. Furgusson was deployed with A Company, 4^th Battalion The Rifles in September 2009 to build and patrol bases along the main transit route in South Helmend, a route riddled with Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).

On four different occasions, Furgusson came to the aid of fellow soldiers who had been hit by IEDs. It was in January 2010 however when Furgusson himself was directly struck by an IED which was hidden in a doorway.

The incident caused Furgusson to lose his legs, left eye and fingers from both his hands. He also suffered injuries to his face.

Despite his horrific wounds, Furgusson remains positive;

“I’m a happy man … there is no looking back. There is nothing you can do about it. I look forward to what happens next.”

In 2010, Furgusson was presented the Military Cross by the Queen for his bravery in service.

His citation read:

“Furgusson’s bravery, personally ignoring the ever-present IED threat when dashing to the aid of wounded men, and his outstanding leadership, time and again rallying his soldiers in the disorientating aftermath of IED strikes, saves men’s lives. For his selfless actions he is awarded the Military Cross.”

The Olympic Torch Relay will be held throughout the UK from May to September 2011.