A QUICK-THINKING RAF Benson serviceman threw a smoking grenade from a helicopter to save its crew during a dramatic incident in Afghanistan.

And Flight Sergeant Mark Alden-Court has now been honoured for his bravery.

The Ministry of Defence said he could have saved the lives of those on board and troops on the ground through his actions.

The smoke grenade set off in a rucksack containing important strategic equipment shortly after the Merlin helicopter took-off for a mission in Helmand Province last year.

Rather than throw the whole pack out the aircraft, Flt Sgt Alden Court braved the thick burning fog and used a knife to cut the grenade from the bag.

The crewman from 28 Squadron was presented with the Personal Commendation of the Commander Joint Helicopter Command on May 24.

Air Vice Marshal Carl Dixon handed him the certificate at a special ceremony in the Officers’ Mess at RAF Benson.

Flt Sgt Alden-Court, 41, said: “It was all a bit of a blur at the time. Your instincts and training tend to kick in and you just do what you have to do at the time.

“It's really great to receive my commendation though. It’s nice to know that the work we do in Afghanistan is recognised.”

The drama happened during his first tour in Afghanistan, during a mission to move soldiers in the Counter Improvised Explosive Device Team.