THE EXCEPTIONAL CONTRIBUTIONS made by Moray-based airmen to a key Baltic Air Policing mission earlier this year has been recognised by RAF Lossiemouth’s Commanding Officer.
Group Captain Mark Chappell this week presented operational keepsake medals to personnel who had been deployed to Estonia as part of the mission earlier this year.
In addition, two members of 6 Squadron were recognised for their “exceptional contribution” to mission and presented with individual commendations.
Air crew and support personnel from 6 Squadron were joined by servicemen from C4i Squadron, Mechanical Engineering Squadron and 1 (Fighter) Squadron in contributing to the vital NATO mission.
Group Captain Chappell said: “On any operational mission our airmen and women always give their best. I’m delighted to be able to present medals to the personnel from RAF Lossiemouth who took part in the Baltic Air Policing Mission in Estonia this summer.
“As ever, RAF Lossiemouth personnel performed with exceptional professionalism and integrity in a challenging and demanding environment.”
Secretary of State for Defence Michael Fallon said of the Baltic Air Policing Mission: “Once more the RAF and our state of the art Typhoon fighters have demonstrated our commitment to NATO’s collective defence.”
The Baltic Air Policing mission medal is a keepsake award to individuals for their successful participation in the NATO mission. It is awarded by mutual decision of the Commander, Estonian Defence Forces, the National Armed Forces of the Republic of Latvia and the Chief of Defence, the Republic of Lithuania.
Those taking part in their second and subsequent Baltic Air Policing missions are awarded the appropriate numeral to be attached to their original medal.