Hero Stephen's son to get medal

Lorraine Tinney • Published 25 Aug 2010 14:00

HERO soldier Stephen Monkhouse’s two-year-old son is to receive a prestigious military medal to recognise his family’s loss.

The Scots Guardsman, right, was killed last month trying to save a wounded comrade in Afghanistan.

More than 1,000 people flocked to pay their respects at his funeral in Greenock earlier this month.

Now his family is set to receive the Elizabeth Cross, which is granted to the next of kin of armed forces personnel who have died on operations in national recognition of their loss and sacrifice.

Stephen’s dad, Billy, was overwhelmed at the number of people who turned out to pay their respects to his son and is thrilled the medal will be passed to his grandson Brandon.

He said: “Brandon is his next of kin, so the medal will go to him.

“I have all Stephen’s things. His medals from Iraq, every single photograph in a box for him for when he’s older and understands.

“I’m very proud of Stephen. He would have wanted to go out in a blaze of glory and that’s exactly what he got.”

Stephen, 28, of Graham Street, doted on Brandon and was close to Billy, his mum Linda Watt, brother Allan, sisters Ashleigh and Stacey and his step-brother and sister, Nathan and Kerry.

Billy, 51, who has thrown himself back into his work as a driving instructor since the funeral, praised the army for their support and making the final farewell to his wonderful son such a fitting tribute.

He said: “The turnout didn’t disappoint. It was just as I expected. It was great to see so many ex-servicemen there.”

Stephen was buried with full military honours, but the funeral at St Andrew’s Church was a very personal farewell.

There was a poignant eulogy from Major Iain Gywnne and Stephen’s colleagues carried his flag-draped coffin into the church.

Stephen’s dad was also impressed at how many of the ‘top brass’ knew his son by his nickname, Monkey.

The brave Lance Corporal’s name will be added to the National War Memorial in Staffordshire next year and will also be remembered in the roll of honour at Edinburgh Castle.

Billy hopes a local memorial will be erected in Stephen’s honour in the home town he loved so much.

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This article appeared in Greenock Telegraph 25 Aug 10

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