A SQUADRON at RAF Benson has been given military honours for its involvement in Iraq.

The troops of 33 Squadron are to receive Battle Honours approved by Her Majesty the Queen.

In Iraq the unit moved equipment and soldiers around the battlefield as well as transporting the wounded away from the frontline for emergency medical care.

In November 2004 it operated from Camp Dogwood in an area known locally as 'the Triangle of Death'.

Crew member Flight Sergeant Andy Leys said: "On arrival back at base after operations, the sense of satisfaction and achievement was immense.

"This period was the busiest and most intense operational tasking I have completed in my 19-year flying career."

Battle Honours, approved the Queen, are awarded to commemorate notable battles, actions or engagements in which squadron aircrew or RAF Regiment personnel played a memorable part.

A total of 27 operational flying squadrons and eight Royal Air Force Regiment squadrons have been recognised for their service during Operation Telic in Iraq.

Five operational flying squadrons and three RAF Regiment squadrons have been awarded the highest level of Battle Honour with Emblazonment.

Honours are also being bestowed on squadrons involved in operations in Libya, it was announced this week.

Squadrons II and IX have been commemorated for long-range surprise strikes against Colonel Muammar Gaddafi's regime in 2011.