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Widow gets first Elizabeth Cross | |
(about 5 hours later) | |
The widow of a Nottingham soldier killed in Afghanistan has been presented with the first Elizabeth Cross at his funeral. | |
Warrant officer Sean Upton, 35, was killed in an explosion while on patrol in Helmand Province last month. | |
Karen Upton was given the medal shortly before the funeral at Catterick Garrison in North Yorkshire. | |
It is awarded to next of kin of armed forces personnel killed on active service, in recognition of their loss. | |
This is the first time the name of a reigning monarch has been given to a new award since the George Cross was instituted in 1940. | |
'Nation's gratitude' | |
Mrs Upton, 32, said: "It is an absolute honour to receive the very first Elizabeth Cross in Her Majesty's name and comforting to feel the support of Queen and Country. | |
"Sean and I grew up together, were childhood sweethearts and soulmates. He was a loving husband and devoted father." | |
She added: "I will wear this Elizabeth Cross in his honour with pride and treasure it always." | |
WO Upton had been in the army for 19 years, serving in Northern Ireland, Iraq, Cyprus and Bosnia. | WO Upton had been in the army for 19 years, serving in Northern Ireland, Iraq, Cyprus and Bosnia. |
Chief of the Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup said: "We as a nation owe much to servicemen like WO Upton, who gave his life fighting for our security and freedom. | |
"But we all also owe a great debt to his family. The presentation of this first Elizabeth Cross in the name of Her Majesty The Queen is a lasting symbol of the entire nation's gratitude and respect." | |
He was one of 22 British soldiers who died in Afghanistan in July - the bloodiest month for British forces since the mission began in October 2001. | He was one of 22 British soldiers who died in Afghanistan in July - the bloodiest month for British forces since the mission began in October 2001. |