The King has honoured aides and military personnel for their role played during the period of national mourning of Elizabeth II, as part of a special set of Demise Honours.
The eight pallbearers from the 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards, who carried the late Queen’s coffin during her funeral, have been awarded a silver Royal Victorian Medal, part of the Royal Victorian Order.
The State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Abbey; the coffin was borne by eight Grenadier Guards
Recipients of any level of the Royal Victorian Order are made at the discretion of The King, for those who have served the Monarch or Royal Family in a personal way.
Lance Sergeant Alex Turner, Lance Corporal Tony Flynn, Lance Sergeant Elias Orlowski, Guardsman Fletcher Cox, Guardsman James Patterson, Lance Sergeant Ryan Griffiths, Guardsman Luke Simpson, and Guardsman David Sanderson were watched by millions around the world as they carried the Monarch’s coffin up the steps of St George’s Chapel.
Social media comments at the time praised the personnel for their unflinching professionalism throughout the day.
Amidst the pageantry and occasion 8 young men silently went about their duty.
The weight of the world on their shoulders, the glare of the world on them, but they were flawless.
They did themselves, their families and our country proud. Thank you. pic.twitter.com/YNCoboxWy6
— Carla Lockhart MP (@carlalockhart) September 19, 2022
One of the late Queen’s closet advisors and personal dresser, Angela Kelly, has been made a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order. She worked for Elizabeth II for more than 25 years, and was previously awarded lower honours from the Royal Victorian Order in 2006 (Member, MVO) and 2012 (Lieutenant, LVO).
She was known for bringing a modern – but appropriate – look to Elizabeth II’s wardrobe. Ms Kelly formed part of HMS Bubble, which saw staff isolate with the Queen at Windsor Castle, after it was made her permanent residence.
Terry Pendry, who was the Stud Groom and Manager to Her late Majesty at The Royal Mews, Windsor Castle, was also made a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order.
Terry stood with the Queen’s favourite fell pony, Emma, as the hearse carrying her coffin arrived at Windsor Castle.
The list also features members of the RAF C-17 Globemaster flight crew, who flew the Queen’s coffin from Scotland to Northolt in North West London, accompanied by The Princess Royal.
Coffin bearers who were pulled from the Armed Forces are also recognised.
Two Ladies in Waiting to the late Queen – Philippa de Pass and Jennifer Susan Gordon Lennox – have been made Dame Commanders of the Royal Victorian Order, a more senior award.
