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Post by Les on Sept 28, 2006 16:53:34 GMT
It is reported in the Daily Telegraph today that British commanders in Afghanistan have recommended that their men receive almost 180 awards for gallantry, including several VCs. This follows the most intense fighting since the Korean War and involving much hand-to-hand fighting against the Taliban in Helmand Province. Officers are thought to have recommended about half a dozen VCs, mostly for the troops of 16 Air Assault Brigade. If approved, then an announcement will be made before Christmas.
taken from Victoria Cross Society.
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Post by roberthenry on Oct 16, 2006 7:01:47 GMT
The Sunday Times reports under the headline
PARA TO GET AFGHAN VC
And goes on to say that private Peter McKinley a 21 year old trained first aid soldier endured 15 minutes of sustained attack from heavy machine guns and rocket propelled grenades as he treated a US sergeant during one of the most intense battles experinced by the 3rd Battalion the Parachute Regiment. It goes on to say Army Commanders have described it as " A massive display of bravery " etc.
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Post by Les on Oct 16, 2006 16:25:23 GMT
Robert - I caught this on the news this morning on my way to work. 15 minutes doesn't sound like a long time, but if you're under heavy fire, it might as well be 15 hours!!
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Post by roberthenry on Oct 17, 2006 9:33:03 GMT
I would agree with your comments les, the only times I was the wrong side of live weapons, I was behind an earth banked concrete bunker while raising targets on a firing range, and the vibrations of rounds hitting the concrete was intimadating enough, no I dont think I would ever have been MID material never mind VC material while under fire, so my hat is raised to them regardless of what decorations they eventually recieve.
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Post by Les on Oct 17, 2006 15:48:52 GMT
I've got respect for anyone in uniform (especially Mr Plod  ). I'm happy to say that I've not even been in your position of being behind a bunker...... MID, more AWOL!! |
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Post by Les on Nov 19, 2006 11:14:29 GMT
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). I'm happy to say that I've not even been in your position of being behind a bunker...... MID, more AWOL!!