17/12/2008

Armed Forces Honoured At Sun Military Awards

Sailors, soldiers, air personnel and even Armed Forces animals were honoured last night at the Sun Military Awards, a new scheme run by The Sun newspaper in close association with the Ministry of Defence to recognise excellence among our Armed Forces and supporting civilians.

Their Royal Highnesses The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall were guests of honour at the star-studded event, which took place at Hampton Court Palace on Tuesday 16 December.

Awards were presented in categories that recognised the bravery and professionalism of Service and civilian personnel working in today's Armed Forces around the world. They also celebrated members of the public who provide unstinting support to the military in various ways. In addition to the main categories there were two judges' awards for special recognition, one to the 2nd Battalion, The Parachute Regiment, for their exceptional deployment in Afghanistan this year, and to Christine Bonner - whose son Corporal Darren Bonner was killed in Afghanistan in 2007 - for her tireless support for the Armed Forces.

Speaking about the awards, Air Chief Marshall Sir Jock Stirrup, Chief of the Defence Staff said: "These awards are a unique opportunity to recognise and celebrate the sacrifices made by, and the dedication and courage of, our serving personnel, their families, and the people who support them."

The ceremony, including unique footage of shortlisted individuals and teams on operations, plus reconstructions of the acts of heroism that were nominated, will be televised on Sky One at 20:00 on 18 December.

(JM/KMcA)

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