Medals for 1 QDG 23.05.12

1st The Queen's Dragoon Guards have received their operational medals after a demanding six month tour in Afghanistan.

On the hottest day of the year so far in Germany, families, children and friends of the troops, got out their summer wardrobe and gathered on the Parade Square at Dempsey Barracks all so they could witness with pride their loved ones receive their Afghan medal.

It was a successful, yet challenging tour for the three squadrons of the Regiment who were based all over Helmand Province.

Lieutenant General Simon Mayall, former Commander of the Regiment presented the medals along with Brigadier Patrick Sanders, Commander of 20th Armoured Brigade.

But along with the good wishes and congratulations, thoughts went to the two men who did not return home.

Lance Corporal Richard Scanlon died alongside his comrade Lieutenant David Boyce in November last year. They were on patrol in Nahr-e Saraj when their vehicle was hit by an IED.

Further recognition went out to individual troops who completed an exceptional tour. Lance Corporal James Hatton was presented with the Mann Trophy for being the most successful trooper of the Regiment.

The Sergeant who went above and beyond his duties out in theatre was presented with the Queen Elizabeth Trophy.

Once the music had started, the bouncy castles were up and the beer was flowing, it was time for the Families Regimental Day. From ice-cream, sweets, face-painting and balloon making - a perfect way for the families to enjoy being back together again.