Thread: New Medals

Nice touch Lizzy

The relatives of soldiers killed on active service spoke of their pride after receiving the Elizabeth Cross from the Queen.


The Queen presented the new honour to the relatives of six soldiers killed on active service in Afghanistan and Iraq during a private presentation ceremony at Catterick Garrison.

The cross is awarded to the next of kin of armed forces personnel killed on active service, or as a result of terrorism, in a mark of national recognition of their loss.

It is the first time the Queen has personally presented the new honour which bears her name.

Speaking after the 15-minute private ceremony, the relatives of some of those killed spoke of their pride.

Tracey Hazel, who lost her son Corporal Ben Leaning, said she was proud to be his mother.

Corporal Leaning, 24, from Scunthorpe, and Trooper Kristen Turton, 27, from Grimsby, were killed when their scimitar was hit by a roadside bomb while they were on patrol.

Mrs Hazel said: "I'm absolutely full of pride. Pride has taken away the hurt. I'm absolutely proud, that's all I can say. I'm proud to be his mum.."

Kristen Turton's mother Jenny said: "It's been sad, very sad and very painful, but it's been a very proud day. I'm just extremely proud of Kristen. I'm feeling immense pride to be his mum. It was a great honour and a great privilege to see the Queen, who was here in person.."

His widow Sharon added: "It was very emotional today, but a very proud occasion because the Queen has recognised those troops killed in action. I never thought I would see this day in my lifetime.