In a significant step towards recognizing the sacrifices of emergency service workers, the first recipients of the Elizabeth Emblem have been announced. Named after the late Queen, this honor will be awarded to the next of kin of over 30 deceased firefighters, police officers, and public servants. The emblem serves as a poignant acknowledgment of their bravery and dedication.
Among those being honored are PC Fiona Bone and PC Nicola Hughes, who tragically lost their lives in September 2012 while responding to a fraudulent emergency call. This new award comes as a result of a two-year campaign led by Bryn Hughes, father of Nicola Hughes. He initiated this movement after realizing there was no official state recognition for emergency workers who died in the line of duty.
“The absence of such an award was surprising,” said Bryn Hughes, reflecting on his motivation to advocate for this recognition.
The Elizabeth Emblem parallels the Elizabeth Cross, which honors members of the armed forces who have died in action or due to terrorist attacks. Notably, NHS workers who succumbed during the pandemic will also be eligible for this prestigious award.
Martin Wiltshire expressed his shock and pride upon learning that he would receive the emblem on behalf of his father, DC Malcolm Wiltshire. His father served in Hampshire Constabulary until his untimely death in 1985 when an aircraft he was photographing traffic congestion with crashed.
“It’s a privilege that my dad’s memory has been preserved after all these years,” Martin stated, emphasizing how much his father valued his work.
Similarly, William Cruickshank shared his feelings about receiving the emblem for his father, William Wallace, a firefighter who died in 1960 during a devastating warehouse blaze that claimed 19 lives—the largest loss ever recorded by a UK fire service.
“This recognition is important even if it doesn’t replace my dad,” Cruickshank remarked, noting how difficult it was growing up without him.
Other families receiving emblems include those of PC Andrew Harper and firefighter Leslie Marsh—each story underscoring a legacy of service and sacrifice.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer emphasized the importance of remembering those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. He stated that while nothing can replace lost loved ones, the Elizabeth Emblem serves as a lasting tribute to their dedication to public safety.
The emblem’s design features a rosemary wreath encircling a Tudor Crown—a symbol steeped in history and remembrance. As these awards are presented later this year by King Charles III, they will serve not only as honors but also as reminders of courage and commitment among emergency service workers across the nation.
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