King's Birthday Honours 2025 for Shropshire RAF sergeant
A RAF serviceman from a Powys-Shropshire border village who has taken part in the nation's most significant ceremonial events as well as extensive operations in the Middle East has been named in the King's Birthday Honours list.
Flight Sergeant Robert Pugh, who was raised in Pant, near Llanymynech, was awarded a Meritorious Service Medal on Friday, June 13 for his 'exceptional service'.
His wife Kelly said: 'He is incredibly modest, and we are incredibly proud of him'.
The 44-year-old son of Oswestry residents Michael and Carol Pugh joined the RAF as a teenager after leaving school aged 17. He has served his country for 27 years and continues to do so with 'unwavering dedication', his wife added.
'Although local he is currently based at RAF Northolt on Force Protection Training Flight, he has served in both the Queen's Colour Squadron (QCS) and the King's Colour Squadron (KCS), taking part in many of the nation's most significant ceremonial events,' Kelly said.
'These included, being in the Tri-Service Guard of Honour for the Coronation of King Charles III.
Flight Sergeant Robert Pugh receiving a commendation. (Image: Kelly Pugh)
'He was part of the lining party for Prince William and Catherine's wedding, and in formation at RAF Northolt when Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II arrived at RAF Northolt, returning to the capital following her passing.
'His ceremonial duties over the years have also included several Remembrance services at the Cenotaph, as well as taking part in televised squadron displays at the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall, and at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
'In addition to his ceremonial roles, he has undertaken extensive operations throughout the Middle East, demonstrating his courage and commitment in both active duty and state occasions.'
Shropshire residents who were also named in the King's Birthday Honours list were Telford-based Bronze Software Labs Ltd founder Richard Howells OBE, Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) publications manager Simon Lusty MBE from Ludlow, and Christine Still MBE, from Newport, for services to gymnastics.
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Severn Valley Country Park volunteer Donald Bannister BEM, from Bridgnorth, James Diggory BEM, from Shrewsbury, for services to the Nesscliffe community and finally, RAF Cosford training development officer John McGlasson BEM for services to Defence and to charitable fundraising were also given honours.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 'This year's Birthday Honours List is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary dedication, compassion, and service that exists in every corner of our country."
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