MEDALS for bravery were awarded to more than 110 soldiers this morning in an awards presentation.

Men and women who flew and maintained the Apache helicopters were recognised for their role in the Afghanistan and Libya conflicts at a parade at Wattisham Airfield, near Needham Market.

Colonel Andrew Jackson, deputy commander of 16 Air Assault Brigade, presented 66 soldiers with the Unified Protector medal for serving in the Libya conflict between June to October 2011.

He also presented more than 40 Operational Service medals to troops who served in Afghanistan between January and September this year.

“It’s an absolute privilege to represent the regiment on a very special day,” Col Jackson said.

“I am really honoured to represent a unique regiment.”

He said the troops had had a “frenetic” past couple of years and the regiment was at the “forefront” of the Army’s capabilities.

Lieutenant Colonel Mike Neville was awarded a Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service in recognition of his work spearheading the Apache mission over Libya.

Warrant Officer Class 1 Jonathan Lane received a Mention in Despatches medal for his work in Afghanistan.

Full the full story see tomorrow’s EADT.