Honouring heroes

9:11am Thursday 15th May 2008

TWO Harrier jets flew over Norton Manor Camp, near Taunton, as Royal Marines from 40 Commando were presented with campaign medals.

Around 2,000 people gathered for yesterday's ceremony, at Norton Fitzwarren, to see the Marines rewarded for their six-month tour of Afghanistan's Helmand Province on Operation Herrick 7.

The Commandos took part in a ceremonial parade in front of hundreds of friends and family, followed by a barbecue for all the families.

Among those receiving medals were Marines Mark Ormrod and Ben McBean, who lost limbs in action.

Marine Ormrod - pictured below - lost both legs and an arm when he stepped on a mine just before Christmas.

In April, he met Princes Harry and William during a royal visit to the rehabilitation centre in Epsom.

Marine Ormrod, who trained alongside Prince Harry, said of the prince: "He's been out there and he's seen and done it."

A similar explosion caused Marine McBean to lose a leg and an arm.

Marines spokesman Lt Paul Newell said: "It was a proud moment for both of them to march across the parade ground - they were both determined to do it."

At the ceremony, Lt Col Stuart Birrell, commanding officer of 40 Commando, praised friends and family of the marines for their support.