On Tuesday, members of the 140-strong 2 Squadron RAF Regiment were presented with tour of duty Operational Service Medals and commended for their efforts by Group Captain Russ La Forte.

Personnel are now having a 10-day normalisation period before they are given a month's leave.

It has been confirmed that the squadron is not expected to be deployed on operations in either Iraq of Afghanistan for another 15 months.

After a medal presentation ceremony, Grp Capt La Forte, said: "I would like to say well done to the whole squadron and the reservists on what has been a tough tour.

"I am delighted to present the campaign medals and welcome you all home safe and well from such a successful tour and I wish you all the very best."

Senior Aircraftsman Michael Roberson, 20, from Brandon, said: "This was my first tour and I didn't really know what to expect.

"It certainly has been tough and I have really missed my fiancée, Steph, so it's great to be home again.

"It was a positive experience and we all worked very well as a team, but I am definitely looking forward to a month off from work."

Like many other members of 2 Squadron RAF Regiment, Flight Sergeant Roger Hopper, 40, of Bury St Edmunds, praised family and friends who kept in contact.

"They sent out parcels and when they arrived it was emotional experience, but it certainly kept the boys going."

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