MoD announces new honour
for families of troops killed on operations or as a result of terrorism
MINISTRY OF DEFENCE
News Release (109/2008) issued by The Government News Network on 10
June 2008
The Ministry of
Defence has announced plans for a new form of national recognition
to honour the families of troops who die on operations or as a
result of terrorism.
The decision to commission a memorial scroll and an emblem to
wear has been taken by the Chiefs of Staff to recognise
families' losses and honour the sacrifice of their loved ones.
Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup, Chief of the Defence Staff, said:
"Our Armed Forces demonstrate bravery, commitment and
professionalism on a daily basis and as a nation we must continue
to show our appreciation. It is equally important that we
remember their families who play a vital role in supporting their
loved ones serving in the Armed Forces.
"It is a sad but unavoidable reality that some of our brave
service personnel pay the ultimate sacrifice in the name of their
country. That is why my fellow Chiefs of Staff and I believe the
time is right to recommend a new award for the families of those
who die on operations or as a result of terrorism, in recognition
of their loss."
Secretary of State for Defence, Des Browne, said:
"I welcome this decision by the Chiefs. Our Armed Forces
give their lives securing freedom and stability for the people of
the UK. Every loss is a tragedy for the families, friends and
comrades of those who have died and nothing can replace them.
However I hope that this award, for the families of those who have
been killed on operations or as a result of terrorism, will
demonstrate how much the nation values their sacrifice."
Detailed consideration will now be given to the design and
production of the scroll and emblem. The views of loved ones will
be considered as a part of this process. Further details will be
announced later this year.
Notes to Editors
1. The Chiefs of Staff are:
* Air Chief Marshall Sir Jock Stirrup, Chief of the Defence
Staff;
* Admiral Sir Jonathan Band, Chief of the Naval
Staff;
* General Sir Richard Dannatt, Chief of the General
Staff;
* Air Chief Marshal Sir Glenn Torpy, Chief of the Air
Staff; and
* General Timothy Granville-Chapman, Vice Chief of
the Defence Staff.
2. All Service Personnel killed on duty or as a result of
terrorist action since the Second World War are honoured at the
new Armed Forces Memorial at the National Arboretum Staffordshire.
The memorial was dedicated by HM The Queen last year.