Officers Slain In The Line Of Duty Are Being Honored With A Medal Campaign

The father of a police officer killed in the line of duty is trying to have her sacrifice recognized with a medal.

Nicola Hughes, 23, and Fiona Bone, 32, both of Greater Manchester Police, were slain in an ambush by on-the-run gunman Dale Cregan in September 2012.

Bryn Hughes is initiating a campaign to have the Elizabeth Cross posthumously awarded to emergency responders slain in the line of duty.

"It may be proudly worn," he remarked.

The Elizabeth Cross, first awarded in 2009, is granted to relatives of members of the armed services died in combat or as a result of a terrorist incident since World War II ended.

Mr Hughes stated, " "It doesn't change anything, and it doesn't bring people back, but it does show the family that you've been recognized for your loss.

"It tells those families that we are still thinking about them and that we appreciate the sacrifice they made."

"It's vital to me that they're recognized, that they're honored, and that the families be compensated," Mr Hughes added.

"You could proudly wear that medal at a memorial gathering, and it would speak volumes about how proud you are," he said.

"Every year, I attend the National Police Memorial Day, which is a wonderful, fitting memorial, but to be there representing and wearing that medal says, "This is our badge of honor."

"Every life lost in the line of duty is a tragedy," a Home Office spokeswoman said, "and our thoughts remain with the families of police constables Nicola Hughes and Fiona Bone."

"Police officers perform a remarkable job, and our recently enacted police covenant honors their bravery and dedication."

"We are committed to ensuring that the sacrifices made by police are recognized."

"We'll think about it and see if there are any other viable options."