Portsmouth South MP Flick Drummond has written to the defence secretary asking him to review a decision that bars British service personnel from wearing a medal awarded for combating pirates in the Indian Ocean.
Around 1000 service men and women have received the NATO Africa Medal but they cannot wear it on their uniform because, according to the Ministry of Defence, it does not meet the tests of “risk and rigour”.
Flick has become involved after a constituent, who served in the Operation called Ocean Shield aboard the Royal Fleet Auxiliary ship Fort Victoria, contacted her asking for help.
“It does seem very unfair our sailors and marines cannot pin this medal on their uniform when I believe every other NATO member who contributed to the operation has allowed its personnel to wear it,” explained Flick.
“I also find it difficult to understand why spending months at sea tackling armed pirates and apparently being shot at on several occasions does not pass this rather arcane MoD test of risk and rigour.
“Those who served in operations against piracy and terrorism in the Indian Ocean have shown great skill and courage.
“So I have asked Michael Fallon to review this unfair decision and let common sense prevail for those who conducted themselves in accordance with the highest traditions of the Royal Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary.”
Operation Ocean Shield has been running for several years and has seen many pirates detained, vessels liberated and hostages released.