Staffords soldiers are honoured

Four soldiers from the Staffordshire Regiment have been honoured in the latest Operational Awards published by the Ministry of Defence.

An OBE has been bestowed upon Lt Col Tim Sandiford, born in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent.

And there has been Mention in Dispatches for Maj Mike Ross, from Edinburgh, Acting Sgt Jason Smith from Lichfield and Cpl David Lovell from Stafford.

The Citations are as follows.

Lieutenant Colonel Timothy Alexander Sandiford: Awarded for his command of The Staffords Battle Group of 473 officers and men from all arms and latterly incorporated Iraqi Army troops.

The intensity of the operations was such that there was no let up until the day they left the area.

The scale and complexity of operations against a devious and well motivated enemy was considerable and he had to constantly manage the risks, both physically and politically in all that he did. The group carried out 23 complex strike and detention operations and was responsible for the detention of a number of militants. He led throughout by personal example, steadfast manner and unerring pursuit of his mission.

Corporal David John Lovell: While on patrol his lead Warrior was hit killing one soldier and injuring another four. He quickly drove alongside the stricken vehicle. On opening the rear door he faced the sight of the casualties. He aided the three live ones, unfazed by the shocking sight before him. He co-ordinated a plan for their evacuation to the field hospital. He did this without concern for his own safety, willingly putting himself at risk on their behalf.

Major Michael Ross: Throughout his difficult tour Major Ross showed great gallantry throughout, leading his men from the front.

Corporal Jason Lee Smith: During a joint security operation he helped maintain the offensive spirit throughout the night. He extracted two wounded colleagues and returned to destroy an enemy team who were laying improvised explosive devices.

By his gallant actions, willingness to take the fight to the enemy and his determination not to be pushed back, he ensured mission success.