SOLDIERS in Comet country have been commended for their service in the army, and were awarded Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medals last week.

Soldiers from D Squadron 254 Medical Regiment in Hitchin were on parade, and received their medals last Wednesday evening.

The medals were presented to those who have served a minimum of five years in the army and have attended at least five annual deployments.

Friends and family also attended the ceremony at the Bedford Road barracks, and celebrated afterwards with a barbecue.

Captain Jim McFarland said: “The officers and soldiers were proud to have received the medal in recognition of their service to Her Majesty the Queen and will wear them with great pride and honour.”

The medals, presented by Squadron Commander Captain Gavin Bacon, were awarded to 18 members of the squadron.

One of those was Corporal Richard Hopkins, 44, from Shefford.

He said: “It’s always an honour to get awards like this. I got my long service award last year.

“It was a great evening, we all enjoyed it.”

Several soldiers on operations were also awarded the medal, and will be presented with it when they return in a few months time.