Troops honoured for Afghan role

The Commons Defence Committee has said Nato must commit more troops and development aid to Afghanistan if it is to succeed in establishing a viable democracy.

Speaking as operational military honours were announced for those who have served in Afghanistan, Royal Marine Major Oliver Lee said "a tremendous amount" has been achieved.

Maj Lee, who has returned after six months as Brigade Operations Officer for the UK Task Force in Afghanistan and received an MBE, said: "It is not for me to comment on the troop numbers. But I can say that a tremendous amount is being done right now to achieve our goal. The guys are extremely well trained and have tremendous qualities as soldiers."

The Commons Defence Committee said it was "deeply concerned" at the continuing reluctance of some Nato members to contribute to the alliance's International Security Assistance Force (Isaf).

In a new report, the committee said that Isaf was still two battalions short of the requirement set by Nato commanders while some member states were continuing to impose restrictions on where their troops could operate.

The news comes as the Ministry of Defence announced 139 awards for members of the armed forces for services and operations all around the world since October 1, 2006 to March 31 this year.

Commandos who were awarded medals for Operation Herrick in Afghanistan were highlighted at a news conference at Stonehouse Barracks in Plymouth, Devon. In total 39 members of 3 Commando Brigade received honours, including Corporal John Thompson who received the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross. It is only the 25th time the medal, one below the Victoria Cross, has been awarded.

Cpl Thompson was given the award for his courage after more than 30 fire-fights with Taliban troops during his six month deployment. The 29-year-old, from Plymouth, was involved in one particular battle when his vehicle led a group that was ambushed. He and two other Royal Marines in the vehicle took the fire of more than 40 Taliban fighters allowing the rest of the group to get into position to attack. Cpl Thompson said he fired 90% of his ammunition in 10 minutes keeping the enemy at bay in a battle which lasted about four hours.

"For a boy from a council estate in Plymouth to get this for just doing my job is amazing," he said.