Purple Heart Petition |
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One-time commando John Maher (48), who was mentioned-in- dispatches in the Falklands, is delighted former colleague John Mollison is helping raise the profile of the campaign to introduce an American-style Purple Heart decoration to Britain. He said: 'We have secured a Downing Street petition and have a short- term target of 50,000 signatures.' The petition notes: 'No recognition is given to British HM Forces who sacrifice life or limb in the service of their country. Historically, the sacrifices of American military personnel are recognised by the award of a Purple Heart. This is tangible recognition, providing a degree of solace to widows and families. There is no similar award in the UK and we believe that to be wrong. With the combined death toll of British service personnel in Iraq and Afghanistan now beyond 350, and an estimated 3000-plus personnel injured in the line of duty, we believe the UK should now embrace a similar award.' We urge you to add your voice to the plea for the government to embrace the Purple Heart. Elizabeth Cross News WelcomedTHE Commando Joe team have welcomed news that Her Majesty The Queen has given her name to a new form of recognition for British Forces personnel making the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their country. The on-line Purple Heart petition, which runs until October 3, has formed part of a wide-ranging campaign designed to see just such an award introduced for those killed - and maimed - in the line of duty. That was the very reason John Mollison’s J and E Shepherd-sponsored boat was name the “Purple Heart.” So keep the names coming for the petition. Casualties are coming home from Afghanistan and need to know the country is behind them. The Elizabeth Cross – in sterling silver - honours families of fallen troops. It will be awarded as national recognition of their loss to next-of- kin of military men and women killed on active service, along with a Memorial Scroll signed by Her Majesty.
It’s the first time the name of a reigning monarch has been given to a new award since the George Cross was instituted in 1940 by King George VI for acts of bravery by both civilians and the military. Prior to this, the Victoria Cross was introduced by Queen Victoria in 1856 for acts of gallantry by the Armed Forces. The Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll will not just be granted to families who have lost loved ones in the recent operations in Iraq and Afghanistan; The Queen's recognition will also be available to the families of those who died in conflicts dating back to 1948, including the Korean War, the Falklands conflict and operations in Northern Ireland.
Defence Secretary Bob Ainsworth added: "We owe so much to those who have died to protect our country and our way of life. The Elizabeth Cross was recommended by the military chiefs to Her Majesty to recognise the huge debt this country owes to the families those brave individuals have left behind." Families of those Service personnel who have died since 1948 are invited to read the information on the MOD Medal Office website which includes information on the eligibility criteria and how to apply. Information and an application form can also be obtained by calling 0800 085 3600. |
In a message to Her Armed Forces, Her Majesty The Queen said: “This seems to me a right and proper way of showing our enduring debt to those who are killed while actively protecting what is most dear to us all. The solemn dignity which we attach to the names of those who have fallen is deeply engrained in our national character. As a people, we accord this ultimate sacrifice the highest honour and respect." Chief of the Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup, said:"I hope that the families of those who have given their lives will wear the Elizabeth Cross with pride and pass it on to future generations so that they too might know the price that has been paid for their freedom and way of life."