FORMER AIR CADET AWARDED
THE GEORGE CROSS

A former Air Cadet has been awarded the George Cross for his heroic actions whilst serving in Afghanistan. Royal Marine Reservist, Lance Corporal Matthew Croucher was a cadet with Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing before going on to join the Royal Marines.

At a ceremony in London, Chief of the Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup confirmed that Lance Corporal Croucher, aged 24, is to receive the George Cross in recognition of his extraordinary bravery.

Matthew’s heroic act took place back in February whilst serving with the Commando Reconnaissance Force in Helmand Province , Afghanistan . During a search on a Taliban compound, Lance Corporal Croucher noticed that a trip-wire connected to a grenade had been activated. After warning his comrades to find cover, Matthew threw himself onto the grenade, using his backpack and protective clothing to absorb the blast. Due to his quick thinking only minor injuries and some disorientation were suffered.

Speaking about Matthew’s act of heroism, Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup said: "Lance Corporal Matthew Croucher showed extraordinary bravery, self-sacrifice and devotion to duty. He acted to save his comrades in the almost certain knowledge that he would not himself survive. His exemplary behaviour and supreme heroism are fully deserving of the nation's highest recognition."

His mother Margaret Croucher, a teacher in Birmingham, said she got three text messages from him while he was away, one of which read: "Being put forward for a citation, might meet the Queen." She said: "Obviously I was very intrigued but we didn't get the full story until he got back and we read about it in the papers. I am obviously immensely proud but it was a typical act from him.”

The George Cross ranks with the Victoria Cross as the nation's highest award for gallantry. It is awarded "for acts of the greatest heroism or of the most conspicuous courage in circumstances of extreme danger. Lance Corporal Matthew Croucher is expected to receive his honour from the Queen at Buckingham Palace in the autumn.

Everyone from the Air Cadet Organisation would like to congratulate Lance Corporal Croucher on the award of his George Cross.

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