The Sun Military Awards, a scheme aimed at recognising excellence among our Armed Forces and civilian personnel, are officially launched today, Monday 1 September 2008. The awards, the brainchild of His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, present an opportunity for the public to recognise some of the excellent work and achievements of our people.
There are thousands of individuals who make up the UK Armed Forces and the Ministry of Defence, and they contribute to its reputation around the world as world-class professionals and a force for good.
Chief of the Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup said:
"The members of our Armed Forces consistently display courage and professionalism that are second-to-none. These awards are an exciting opportunity to recognise that, and to celebrate everything that our people and their families do for the nation."
The categories are as follows:
• Best Recruit
• Support to the Armed Forces
• Life Saver Award
• True Grit: Individual
• True Grit: Group
• Best Armed Forces Animal
• Most Outstanding Sailor or Marine
• Most Outstanding Soldier
• Most Outstanding Airman
• Overcoming Adversity
• Best Unit
• Judge's Award for Special Recognition (not open to public nomination)
Tom Newton Dunn, The Sun's Defence Editor, said of the awards:
"With so many facing danger away from their families in Iraq or Afghanistan, seldom has the need been greater to give them the recognition they deserve. Like us, Prince Charles believes it is time to celebrate British troops' extraordinary character, selflessness and dedication – as a heartfelt token of our gratitude to them.
"The 12 award categories have been carefully chosen to represent every field of military endeavour; from the fearless on the front line, to the medics who put them back together, and the thousands behind the scenes closer to home – who care for them all."
To make your nomination go to The Sun's special web page, see Related Links>>>
Or if you don't have internet access, you can post your nomination to The Millies, The Sun, 1 Virginia Street, London E98 1SN. Please include:
1. The nomination category
2. Name, rank and initials (if individual)
3. Unit
4. Citation for why the person or unit is being nominated (up to 200 words),
Plus your name, telephone number and relationship to the nominee.