The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
London Bridge terror attack heroes given gallantry medals by the Queen
Civilians killed in atrocity and police officers recognised
Heroes of the London Bridge terror attack, including two who died trying to save others, have been recognised by the Queen for their bravery.
Victims Ignacio Echeverria and Kirsty Boden, killed during the atrocity in London last summer, feature on this year’s Civilian Gallantry list.
Two police officers who confronted the attackers as they carried out their murderous rampage are awarded the George Medal for gallantry of an extremely high order.
Mr Echeverria, who tried to stop the knife-wielding terrorists with only his skateboard, is posthumously awarded the George Medal.
The 39-year-old Spanish banker had undoubtedly prevented further loss of life by running towards the terrorists to allow others to escape, the awarding committee said.
The family of Australian nurse Kirsty Boden, 28, who was killed as she tried to help victims on the bridge, said they felt “very proud” of her for being awarded the Queen’s Commendation for Bravery.
British Transport Police officer Wayne Marques, 39, left badly injured after fighting off all three terrorists armed with only his baton, said the recognition is “a silver lining to what was a tragic event”.
Metropolitan Police officer Charles Guenigault, who was off-duty at the time, recalled rushing to the aid of Mr Marques before he was also stabbed.
Two members of the public who in turn helped the Met officer, staying by his side from the scene right through to the hospital, received the Queen’s Commendation for Bravery.
Ellen Gauntlett and Justin Jones may have saved Mr Guenigault’s life, the awarding committee said.
The officer, who said he was shocked but proud to be given the medal, told of his gratitude to the pair.
He said: “It just shows you that you don’t have to be a police officer to do something amazing as well.”
Leon McLeod, who had been on routine patrol with Mr Marques, chased the terror trio and helped give first aid to some of the victims.
He said: “I’ve had pats on the back I suppose at work and people that know what’s gone on but I’ve just not had anything like this. I wasn’t ever expecting anything like this.”