Medals honour for field hospital heroes

The vital work done in Afghanistan to run and operate a military field hospital was recognised when soldiers were presented with medals at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Strensall, York.

By The Newsroom

Published 31st Oct 2010, 22:41 BST

Updated 31st Oct 2010, 22:42 BST

A total of 45 soldiers and airmen from 34 Field Hospital received their operational service medals for running the field hospital in Afghanistan over the hot summer months.

The servicemen received their medals from two senior military officers, Air Vice Marshal Chris Morris, director general medical services with the Royal Air Force, and Brigadier Jerry Rowan, Commander 2 Medical Brigade. They presented the medals to members of the Royal Air Force as well as to Army medics and reservists. Also honoured were civilian specialists who worked at the hospital, including Manchester nurse Helen Derrick. The 34 Field Hospital was deployed to Afghanistan in April on Operation Herrick, and was based at Camp Bastion, Helmand.

Speaking to the soldiers, airmen and their families, Air Vice Marshal Morris said: "I am only too aware of the outstanding care that you have delivered over the last six months."

Afghanistan York