West Midlands firefighter and police officers among first given new posthumous bravery award
The Elizabeth Emblem honours public servants killed in the line of duty
Last updated 9th Nov 2024
A firefighter and two police officers from the West Midlands are among the first recipients of the Elizabeth Emblem, a posthumous bravery award.
The next of kin of over 30 former emergency service workers and other public servants who have died whilst on duty, will receive the award in recognition of their loved ones.
The Emblem is the civilian equivalent of the Elizabeth Cross, which recognises members of the UK Armed Forces who died in action or as a result of a terrorist attack.
The daughter of firefighter Leslie Marsh, of West Midlands Fire Service, will be awarded the Emblem 75 years after he died falling through a hole in the first floor of a derelict church when responding to a fire February 7, 1949.
The families of police constables Malcolm Walker and Keith Malcolm Dobson, of West Midlands Police, will also receive the medal.
PC Walker died on 4 October 2001, and PC Dobson on 11 September 2011.
The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Pat McFadden said: "We owe a debt of gratitude to our exceptional public servants who have given their lives in service of our nation.
"The Elizabeth Emblem will honour their dedication and I am pleased to see the first recipients named today.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: "We must never forget those who have given their lives to protect others in the line of duty.
"While families will never be able to replace their loved ones, the Elizabeth Emblem pays tribute to the sacrifice they have made."