Pensioner Alan Nicholls has finally got his medal for serving in the Suez conflict in the 1950s.
Proud old soldier - Alan Nicholls with his medal, 48 years late Picture: DAVE HENDERSON
Mr Nicholls, 69, of South Hill Crescent, Horndon-on-the-Hill, was elated after being presented with his service medal after almost 50 years of campaigning.
More than 300 people died in the Suez Canal crisis, yet surviving veterans were never given a medal for their service.
However, after years of survivors applying pressure on the Government, it was finally agreed they would all be honoured.
The Suez crisis arose when General Gamal Abdel Nasser of Egypt attempted to nationalise the canal in the autumn of 1956.
Britain joined France in a military assault, but was soon forced to withdraw after condemnation from the United States.
Mr Nicholls said: "I am elated that we have finally been given this. I never expected to receive this in my lifetime.
"I am pleased that the medals have been issued - but not for me, for those who were killed during action, because now it means they have been remembered. They deserve that."
Published Wednesday April 7, 2004
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article