A Falklands War veteran has urged a change in the law after a disgraced chief constable was found to have worn a medal from the campaign to which he was not entitled. Tom Herring, chairman of the South Atlantic Medal Association, condemned the actions of former Northamptonshire chief constable Nick Adderley as “despicable.”
Mr. Herring, who fought in the Battle for Mount Longdon during the 1982 Falklands War, which resulted in the deaths of 23 British soldiers, believes the UK should adopt laws similar to other countries where wearing unearned medals is a criminal offense.
Nick Adderley, 57, “apologised unreservedly” to veterans after it was revealed that he wore a South Atlantic Medal, awarded to those who served in the Falklands War, despite being only 15 when the conflict began. This complaint initiated an investigation into Adderley’s naval career, leading to his dismissal for gross misconduct. The disciplinary panel found that he had exaggerated his naval rank, length of service, and achievements.
A picture of Nick Adderlay wearing the medals
In his statement to the panel, Adderley said, “To those veterans I have offended, I apologise unreservedly.”
Tom Herring, from Bedford, wears his South Atlantic Medal with pride, having served in the war that followed Argentina’s invasion of the British-held Falkland Islands. He recounted seeing 23 of his comrades die on the mud-covered Mount Longdon, just three days before the Argentine surrender.
Herring, a former Parachute Regiment sergeant, emphasized, “It’s not illegal to wear medals that you’re not entitled to, but it’s probably despicable to be associated with it, and that’s what Mr. Adderley has done.” He highlighted that many countries have laws against such actions and referenced a House of Commons briefing paper, “Stolen Valour,” which compares legislation across Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the US.
“There should be a change in the law,” Herring insisted. “We’re proud of our military and civilian forces, and these people who put their lives on the line should be respected.” He added that military medals should not be worn “by someone who is trying to get a job or make a quick buck.”
Related Topics:
- Military Medal Legislation
- Stolen Valor Laws
- Military Respect and Honors
- Legal Consequences for Misrepresentation