Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale MP David Mundell has welcomed the recognition of veterans who served the United Kingdom as part of the Arctic Convoy and Bomber Command.
Mr Mundell believes it is only right that these men finally received credit for the vital role they played in the war effort.
Today (Tuesday) the Prime Minster met 65 Arctic Convoy and Bomber Command veterans to present them with their medals and clasps. At a special ceremony in Downing Street, around 40 men, all in their 80s and 90s, were presented with the Arctic Star medal and another 25 will receive the Bomber Command clasp.
Up to a quarter-of-a-million veterans and the families of those who have sadly died could be eligible to receive the new awards in recognition of their unique contribution protecting Britain during the Second World War.
Commenting Mr Mundell said: “Each and every individual who served our country in Bomber Command and on the Arctic Convoys deserve nothing but the utmost admiration and respect.
“I am extremely pleased that the Prime Minster will now recognise the first group of men and I am keen that those locally who are eligible to apply get the long overdue recognition of their bravery, either for themselves or a family member.”
“I am also pleased to announce that the families of those no longer alive will also be able to apply for these awards in recognition of their loved ones’ bravery.”
Those eligible for the new Bomber Command clasp will have previously qualified for the 1939 to 1945 Star, to which the clasp will be affixed. There is an additional requirement to have flown at least 1 operational sortie as aircrew on a Bomber Command operational unit.
Those eligible for the new Arctic Star are all those who served for any length of time north of the Arctic Circle during the Second World War.
Mr Mundell is now encouraging those locally who are eligible to apply for the award, which includes the families of those who have passed away. Details and an application form can be found at www.veterans-uk.info or by telephoning 08457 800 900 (local rate).