Current Issues - 1999

November 1999

The highest civilian award for gallantry for the RUC

A wave of emotion swept over every man and women in the service, regulars, full and part time reserves and civilians on the news that the Royal Ulster Constabulary had been awarded the George Cross.

The George Cross is the highest civilian award in Britain for acts of courage in circumstances of great danger. The only other instance of the award for a collective act of bravery is to the Mediterranean island of Malta for sustaining siege and heavy bombardment during World War Two.

Les Rodgers, Federation Chairman, called the award a unique honour to a police service and definitive recognition of the work of the RUC over the past thirty years.

"Together with recent clear hints that Government is rethinking the need to change the name and badge of the RUC, this is the best possible evidence that the government understands and appreciates the professionalism, commitment and sacrifice of this force.

"At such a moment we reflect upon the events and deeds which have brought us to this most proud instant in our long history. As the Chief Constable said, it is an acknowledgement of all those without whom policing would simply not have been possible - the families of all police officers and indeed the wider public whose support has been so valued."

Les Rodgers also reflected upon the wider significance of the award and in particular remembered all who had served in the RUC. "On such a day, we acknowledge the great sacrifice of all officers who have given their lives or have been injured. We think particularly of them and their families. The George Cross is a nation's solemn and grateful salute to them, heralding their bravery and fortitude. For us all it provides even greater incentive as we look to the future."

One important incentive is to redouble our efforts to defend the name and symbols. The George Cross has been awarded to The Royal Ulster Constabulary and will henceforth always be associated with that prestigious name. To change the name now would be unthinkable.

However, that will not stop some from continuing to think the unthinkable and we cannot be complacent. It is true that there have been some signs that our campaign against some of the more misjudged parts of the Patten report is beginning to bear fruiut. But many budding fruits have succumbed to an untimely frost.