Family members of police officers, firefighters and other public
servants who have died in public service will be recognised
by a new emblem.
The Elizabeth Emblem, which is conferred by His Majesty The King,
is a national form of recognition awarded to the next of kin of
police officers, firefighters, and many other public servants.
The award is the civilian equivalent of the Elizabeth Cross,
which recognises members of the UK Armed Forces who died in
action or as a result of a terrorist attack.
The design of the Emblem incorporates a rosemary wreath, a
traditional symbol of remembrance, which surrounds the Tudor
Crown. It is inscribed with ‘For A Life Given In Service’, and
will have the name of the person for whom it is in memoriam
inscribed on the reverse of the Emblem. It will include a pin to
allow the award to be worn on clothing by the next of kin of the
deceased.
The Emblem recognises how the sacrifices made by public servants
who have lost their lives as a result of their duty could be
recognised within the honours system.
From today, next of kin of the deceased will be able to apply for
the Emblem via gov.uk. Nominations
will be reviewed by the George Cross Committee and
recommendations then made to His Majesty The King via the Prime
Minister.
Recipients of The Elizabeth Emblem will receive their award from
a senior representative such as a Chief Constable, Chief Fire
Officer or His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant.
Deputy Prime Minister said:
“We will not forget those who died in our service.
“The Elizabeth Emblem will bring the nation together to honour
the dedication and commitment of these exceptional public
servants who have given their lives in service of the United
Kingdom.”
Policing Minister, said:
“We owe so much to our public servants who make sacrifices every
day to keep us safe.
“The Elizabeth Emblem will recognise those who tragically lost
their lives in public service and rightly enshrine them in our
country’s history so that their sacrifices are never forgotten.”
