RAF Acting Flight Sergeant awarded MBE for raising men’s mental health awareness
A member of the Royal Air Force has been awarded an MBE for his work raising awareness of suicide and mental health issues amongst men.
Acting Flight Sergeant George Downey was recognised by King Charles in the New Year's Honours list, with 29 RAF personnel receiving awards.
Flt Sgt Downey lost four male members of his family due to suicide, most recently his brother Pat.
The devastating losses led him to start a 4-year, self-funded counselling course.
During his training, he worked with Hector's House, a charity dedicated to preventing suicide - particularly amongst men.
Flt Sgt Downey then initiated the 'Pacing4Pat' challenge, which took nine months to get off the ground, to raise money and awareness of the issue.
The challenge culminated in a 350-mile walk which raised £20,000 for charity.
The RAF said, in a summary of Flt Sgt Downey's charity work, that he captured hearts and minds across the UK and undoubtedly saved lives.
Elsewhere, Air Vice-Marshal Nigel Colman, now retired, received an OBE for his service in the RAF.
The RAF said, under Air Vice-Marshal Colman's leadership, RAF Benson provided unrivalled utility to the Joint Helicopter Command, including invaluable service in Afghanistan.
His success included leading Joint Helicopter Command in the largest ever aviation assault exercise in Operation Deveran, assisting UK Border Force and providing support for Operation Rescript in the national response to coronavirus.
His work at GCHQ was also recognised, with his shaping of the National Cyber capability and Cyber Force applauded.
Air Marshal Ian Gale has also been awarded an OBE for helping to deliver future RAF capabilities.
Air Mshl Gale was praised for his work at translating the operational needs into capabilities for the RAF.
His lasting legacy in the service include the HERMES 450 Remotely Piloted Air System for use in Iraq and Afghanistan.
It also includes the recapitalisation of E-3D with E-7 Wedgetail.
Another member of the RAF Air Commodore Catherine Coton, was awarded a CBE for her work shaping the future of the service.
Air Cdre Coton was credited as being the key architect of the RAF's approach to strategic reviews.
She was also the first woman to assume the role of Head of Resources and Plans and played a key role in the National Security Capability Review.
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