Wednesday 21 September 2022 03:35 AM Pallbearers who carried the Queen's coffin could be given a CERTIFICATE instead ... trends now
The eight Grenadier Guards who bore the Queen's coffin could be given certificates instead of being made Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBEs), despite calls for the hand-picked pallbearers to win the accolades.
Military leaders, politicians and celebrities have all backed calls for the Queen's faultless pallbearers to be made MBEs.
The Grenadier Guards who carried the Queen's coffin into Westminster Abbey and St George's Chapel showed incredible composure throughout the ceremonies.
But The Daily Telegraph reported Tuesday night that the pallbearers could be given a 'commendation certificate' in recognition for their efforts rather than MBEs.
The Grenadier Guards who carried the Queen's coffin into Westminster Abbey and St George's Chapel showed incredible composure throughout the ceremonies
One defence source said the award was usually reserved for those who had been 'valent in battle'.
'Everyone who moved the coffin would have to get an award,' the source said, adding it was more likely they will receive a commendation certificate.
But a former head of the army, Lord Dannatt, suggested that The Royal Victoria Order could be appropriate to accolade their efforts, as it is usually given for personal service to the monarch.
'What could be more personal than carrying the sovereign's body for lying in state, as well as the state funeral?' he asked.
MP Tobias Ellwood, Chairman of the defence committee, has called for the soldiers to be recognised in the New Year's honours list.
'Their performance did the Queen and the nation proud,' he said.
Watched by the wellwishers who lined the streets of London and Windsor — and billions worldwide — they produced a perfect performance.
But yesterday the guards officer in charge of parades admitted he had never seen 'such nervous people' as the men waiting for the coffin.
Lt Col James Shaw told The Sun: 'They carried the responsibility of the nation on their shoulders. It was the most important job which had to be perfect and it was.
'They were outstanding from the first when
