The Government has announced a new award, named the Elizabeth Emblem.
This Emblem, which is conferred by His Majesty The King, is a national form of recognition awarded to the next of kin of individuals who have lost their lives in public service, including next of kin of police officers and firefighters, alongside many other public servants.
The award is the civilian equivalent of the military Elizabeth Cross which recognises members of the UK Armed Forces who died in action or as a result of a terrorist attack.
The design of the Emblem incorporates a rosemary wreath, a traditional symbol of remembrance, which surrounds the Tudor Crown. It is inscribed with ‘For A Life Given In Service’, and will have the name of the person for whom it is in memoriam inscribed on the reverse of the Emblem. It will include a pin to allow the award to be worn on clothing by the next of kin of the deceased.
Richard Fuller MP said:
I pay tribute to bereaved families of those who have given their lives in public service. The Elizabeth Emblem will recognise those who tragically lost their lives in public service and rightly honour them so that their sacrifices are never forgotten.
Next of kin of the deceased will be able to apply for the Emblem via gov.uk. Nominations will be reviewed by the George Cross Committee and recommendations then made to His Majesty The King via the Prime Minister.
Recipients of The Elizabeth Emblem will receive their award from a senior representative such as a Chief Constable, Chief Fire Officer or His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant.
