2009 Poppy Appeal poster widow receives Elizabeth Cross
21 October 2009
The poignant 2009 Poppy Appeal poster widow Hester Wright, whose husband Drummer Damian Wright lost his life in Afghanistan in 2007, was today awarded the Elizabeth Cross at a special ceremony.
Mrs Wright, 22, features in this year's Poppy Appeal poster campaign with her and Damian's six-year-old son Josh. She was presented the award and scroll at Westminster City Hall by The Lord Lieutenant of Greater London, Sir David Brewer.
Mrs Wright's husband, Drummer Damian Wright of 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment (Worcester and Foresters) was killed in an improvised explosion in Afghanistan in 2007. Since Drummer Wright's death, Mrs Wright has been financially supported by The Royal British Legion.
The new Elizabeth Cross is awarded to the relatives of Her Majesty's Armed Forces killed on active service, together with a scroll signed by Her Majesty The Queen. It is the first time the name of a reigning monarch has been given to a new award since the George Cross was instituted in 1940 by King George VI for acts of bravery.
For press enquiries:
Jenny Keeling, PR Officer
T: 020 3207 2238 M: 07990 774 390 E: jkeeling@britishlegion.org.uk
