SOLDIERS from 23 Pioneer Regiment were praised for their determination as they were presented with medals on Saturday.
In freezing weather at the St David’s Barracks parade ground, Bicester, 400 soldiers from the regiment received medals for missions in Afghanistan, Iraq and Cyprus – watched by their proud families.
During the last six-month Afghan tour, the regiment’s Mastiff armoured vehicles were hit 15 times by roadside bombs.
General Sir Kevin O’Donoghue praised the “indestructible spirit of the Pioneers.”
“You completed the task asked of you very effectively, and showed grit, determination and professionalism,” he said.
He said the medals also recognised the fortitude of the soldiers’ families, and the months of worry and stress they had endured.
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