The Elizabeth Cross
Her Majesty The Queen has given her name to a new form of recognition for the families of British Service personnel killed while serving their country.
The new Elizabeth Cross and miniature are to be awarded to the relatives of Her Majesty's Forces personnel killed on active service, together with a Memorial Scroll signed by Her Majesty The Queen. This is the first time HM The Queen has given her name to a new award. It will be granted to the next of kin of Armed Forces personnel killed on operations, or as a result of terrorism, in a mark of national recognition for their loss.
Next of kin will receive the Elizabeth Cross - a sterling silver emblem in the shape of a cross over a wreath - plus a Memorial Scroll signed by The Queen which will bear the name of the person who died. It will usually be presented by the Lord-Lieutenant.
In a message Her Majesty The Queen said:
"This seems to me a right and proper way of showing our enduring debt to those who are killed while actively protecting what is most dear to us all. The solemn dignity which we attach to the names of those who have fallen is deeply engrained in our national character. As a people, we accord this ultimate sacrifice the highest honour and respect. I greatly hope that the Elizabeth Cross will give further meaning to the nation's debt of gratitude to the families and loved ones of those who have died in the service of our country. We will remember them all."
The arms of the Elizabeth Cross bear floral symbols representing England (Rose), Scotland (Thistle), Ireland (Shamrock) and Wales (Daffodil). The reverse of the cross will be engraved with the name of the person in whose memory it is granted.
It will not just be granted to families who have lost loved ones in the recent operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Queen's recognition will also be available to the families of those who died in conflicts dating back to 1948, including the Korean War, the Falklands conflict and operations in Northern Ireland. Therefore, families of those Service personnel who have died since 1948 are invited to read the information on the MOD Medal Office website which includes information on the eligibility criteria and how to apply.
How to nominate - MOD Medal Office