Armed forces personnel honoured

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A sergeant, who joked "don't take all day" as he rescued foot patrols from heavy fire in Iraq, is among 64 armed forces personnel to be awarded medals.

Sgt James Newell, 33, of the Parachute Regiment, is one of two servicemen being awarded the Military Cross - the third highest award for bravery.

The awards include Queen's Gallantry Medals and Distinguished Service Orders for service in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Defence Secretary Des Browne paid tribute to their courage.

I'm stunned to say the least, I haven't quite got my head round it yet Sgt James Newell

The Chief of the Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup said: "The men and women of our armed forces are serving their country in difficult and dangerous operations, often under the most arduous of conditions.

"They routinely carry out their duties with unwavering determination, unparalleled professionalism and awesome courage."

Lance Corporal Trevor Coult, 31, of the Royal Irish Regiment will also receive a Military Cross alongside Sgt Newell.

Father-of-one Sgt Newell, from Colchester, Essex, who has two brothers who have also served with the Paras, said: "I'm stunned to say the least.

"I haven't quite got my head round it yet. I keep thinking I've misheard."

His citation notes that he drove into the centre of the fighting and returned fire as a British patrol climbed into his vehicle in the volatile Al Jamoury district on 21 January.

'Hard and dangerous work'

The Ministry of Defence said he "had undoubtedly saved the lives of comrades from the 2nd Battalion The Parachute Regiment and the Iraqi Police".

Fusilier Daniel Smith earned the George Medal

Men and women who served in Northern Ireland and the Former Yugoslavia will also be included in the honours list.

Captain Kevin Ivison, 25, of the Royal Logistic Corps and Fusilier Daniel Smith, 21, of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers are to receive the George Medal, which is on the second rank below the Victoria and George Crosses.

Mr Browne said: "The men and women of our Armed Forces are doing hard and dangerous work every day in operations around the world.

"I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate those honoured today and to thank them. They are a tribute to our Armed Forces and our nation."