Soldiers Honoured For Courage In Afghan
30 September 2011, 06:15
Dozens of Essex-based soldiers have received praise after returning from Afghanistan.
Members of 16 Air Assault Brigade have been honoured for 'gallantry and meritorious' service during their tour of the country between October 2010 to April 2011.
Those given awards include Lieutenant James MacDonald of 3 Para and Private Mark Vidler of 2 Para.
Lt MacDonald was praised for his courage after putting himself in the firing line while in command of a platoon at the most hazardous point in the Nad-e Ali District of Helmand Province.
Pte Vidler saved lives by finding improvised explosive devices while serving in the area of Nahr-e-Saraj.