Kent firefighters honored with Humanitarian Medals for Morocco earthquake response

Four firefighters from Kent Fire & Rescue Service have received Humanitarian Medals for their «team effort» in responding to the 2023 earthquake in Morocco, the BBC reported on Tuesday, October 7.

Jim Chaston, Dom Moore, Brad Rebbeck, and Jamie Muddle were part of the UK International Search and Rescue team deployed to villages devastated by the quake, which killed nearly 3,000 people.

«We’re extremely honoured to be awarded these medals», said Chaston, who emphasized that «it’s always a team effort… we all have the same purpose to save lives and do what we can to help during a really devastating time».

Kent Fire & Rescue Service’s director of response, Matt Deadman, praised the firefighters, saying, «We’re all inspired by the incredible life-saving work they provide nationally and internationally».

The Humanitarian Medal, conferred by King Charles III, recognizes emergency and aid workers who respond to disasters and conflicts both in the UK and abroad. The firefighters are expected to attend a formal presentation at Buckingham Palace.