THE ARCTIC STAR:

[Admin]

19 December 2012:

Britain is finally to award medals to Second World War veterans of the Arctic Convoy missions, David Cameron announced today.

The government had previously refused to provide recognition of the sailors' bravery in keeping supply lines open to the Eastern Front, because the conflict was too long ago.

Now today, acknowledging that the issue of medals had 'gone on for a very long time', The Prime Minister told MPs a review had concluded that the men would now 'get the recognition they so richly deserve'.

26 February 2013:

They have waited for their sacrifice to be recognised for 70 years.

But next month the 200 frail veterans of the Arctic Convoys will finally have campaign medals pinned to their chests.

LINK: www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2250499/Arctic-Convoy-heroes-finally-receive-medal-70-years-risking-lives-supplies-open-frozen-hell.html

[Admin]

It has been announced today, 26 February 2013, by the Minister of State for Defence Personnel, Welfare and Veterans Mark Francois that all the details have been confirmed for the Arctic Star and the Bomber Command Clasp and the application process has now opened. This follows Sir John Holmes’ independent medal review and the announcement by the Prime Minister, on 19 December 2012, that these awards should be made in recognition of the great bravery of those who contributed to two very significant campaigns of World War Two.

LINK: www.veterans-uk.info/arctic_star_index.htm

Admin / Kieran.

[keithattregenna]

Just to emphasise the earlier posts, advice received is - eligible veterans and next of kin are now encouraged to apply using the relevant application forms, which can be found on the Veterans-UK website or by telephoning the MOD Medal Office on 08457 800 900 (a local rate number) for further details. An application must be made as it is simply not possible for the MOD to contact veterans or families of all of those who may be eligible going back almost 70 years.

Keith.