Almost two years ago, David Oliver got in touch with my office. Widowed and advancing in his years he wanted me to join the campaign for the veterans of Britain’s nuclear tests to get the recognition they deserved.
I joined with many other MPs and it was great to see earlier this year that the medal was agreed to: http://www.gov.uk/.../new-medal-design-unveiled-to-honour...
This week, I met David with the medal he has received. The medal recognises the thousands of veterans who worked on Britain's nuclear testing programme on the 70th anniversary of the UK’s first atomic test.
After years of campaigning, I am delighted that has happened so that these heroes get the recognition they deserve.
He has some fascinating stories of what it was like to see a nuclear bomb explode. Tragically many of his colleagues passed away years ago. It was a real privilege to hear what he had to say.
The dedication, sacrifice and determination David and thousands like him have waited too long to be recognised and I am glad they finally have been.
David is one of around 20,000 British and Commonwealth servicemen who would be eligible to receive the medal. Sadly, it is estimated that only around 1,000 are still alive today. However, families of these nuclear veterans can claim their loved ones medals if they wish - to do so please follow through from the link above and - as ever - if you get stuck don’t hestitate to drop me a line
