Peace medal for Tom

The Korean War –known to many as the forgotten war –began on June 25 1950 and ended in 1953 after the loss of two million lives.

In July 1950 the United Nations intervened to support South Korea with around 62,000 UK soldiers amongst the nations supporting.

The troops suffered hardships including extreme temperatures, which could plummet to -25 degrees at night.

Tom Gilbert was one of these soldiers, and served with the Northampton Regiment who stayed on to keep peace until 1954.

As a mark of gratitude ceremonies have been taking part across the participating UN to honour the veterans of the conflict.

Tom, who celebrates his 80th birthday on January 20, was one of these awarded the Korean Peace Medal. He was presented with his medal in November by the Korean Ambassador at the Korean Embassy in London.

Also unveiled in December was the long awaited memorial to honour those that served in the Korean War.

Tom, who has five children, nine grandchildren and eight great grandchildren, is pictured with his medal when he attended the luncheon with his wife Margaret, which was hosted by the Korean ambassador.

He also met Commander Tim Laurence at a garden party held for the Korean Veterans at Buckingham Palace several years ago.

Tom has regularly marched in the Poppy Day parade in Biggleswade and also took part in Poppy Day collections for the services locally and in Bedford, where he was a member of the Bedford Korean Veterans Society.