Detective Constable Stephen Oake has posthumously been awarded the Queen's Gallantry Medal for bravery in the New Year's Honours List.
The award is granted for gallantry of an exceptional order. It is one of the Bravery Awards in the honours system that recognises selfless, brave acts undertaken in the prevention of crime or the arrest of dangerous criminals.
Stephen, who worked as a Special Branch officer for Greater Manchester Police, was killed when he was taking part in a counter terrorism operation in Crumpsall, North Manchester on Tuesday 17 January 2003.
Following his death there were calls from colleagues and the public in Greater Manchester for his bravery to be recognised.
Stephen's wife Lesley gave the following statement on behalf of her and the children: "This is great news. Both myself and the children and indeed, the wider family, are delighted to learn of the news that our much-loved 'Steve' has been honoured in this way.
"Steve's actions on that fateful day in January 2003 were typical of a man who was committed to his job and to his colleagues. We are extremely proud that his sacrificial act of bravery has resulted in this prestigious award.
"We accept this award not only on behalf of Steve but in recognition too, of the bravery of the many officers that were involved on that day."
GMP's Chief Constable, Peter Fahy said: "These awards are only given out in exceptional circumstances and the whole force is pleased that Stephen's great bravery has been recognised in this way.
"The public of Greater Manchester and his colleagues have always supported Stephen being given an award to recognise the great sacrifice he made as part of the national effort against the threat of terrorism.
"We are especially pleased for Stephen's family who have faced the most traumatic of circumstances with great dignity and forbearance."
Kamel Bourgass was sentenced to 22 years in prison on 29 June 2004 for murdering Stephen and attempting to murder three other GMP officers.
Courtesy of www.policeoracle.com
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