Design of new medal for UK nuclear test veterans unveiled

The design of a new commemorative medal in honour of UK nuclear test veterans has been unveiled.

The government says many of those who participated in Britain's nuclear testing programme will receive a new medal in time for Remembrance Sunday 2023.

The new medal was announced by the Prime Minister in November, 70 years after the UK first tested a nuclear weapon.

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It was announced that all service personnel and civilians under UK command – including close partners from the Commonwealth and Pacific region, who participated in, or were present at, the British or American nuclear tests at the Montebello Islands, Christmas Island, Malden Island and Maralinga & Emu Field, South Australia, between 1952 and 1967, will be eligible for the medal.

As well as military personnel, it also includes scientists and local employees, with an estimated 22,000 veterans eligible for medallic recognition.

The veterans and civilian staff, including personnel from across the Commonwealth, made the UK the third nuclear power after the tests – known as Op Hurricane.

The design features an atom surrounded by olive branches, with the words "Nuclear Test Medal", and bears an effigy of His Majesty King Charles III.

The ribbon's colours are white, yellow, black and red, including lighter blue for the sky and ocean – to represent the Pacific.

Veterans, civilian staff and next of kin can apply free of charge for the medal through the MOD's Medal Office and it will also be awarded posthumously.

It will be produced by Worcestershire Medal Services.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: "I am delighted that this commemorative medal is rightfully given to our Nuclear Test veterans, who have made an invaluable contribution to the safety and security of the UK, and who we recognise and value for their service to our nation."

Minister for Veterans' Affairs, Rt Hon. Johnny Mercer MP, said: "As thousands flock to the cinemas to watch Oppenheimer, it’s important to remember the contributions of the veterans, scientists and staff who worked on Britain's nuclear programme.

"Our nuclear deterrent continues to underpin both our security and the security of our Nato allies and this new medal is a fitting tribute to all those who worked to develop this vital defence."