Two Devon men have been honoured for their work in Ukraine.
Professor Mark Hannaford and Luca Alfatti, founders of Medics4Ukraine, were awarded medals in a ceremony in Lviv, Ukraine, at the start of September.
The pair were recognised for their significant contributions to medical training in Ukraine.
The organisation has been at the forefront of medical innovation in challenging conditions worldwide.
Since the war began in Ukraine, the Medics4Ukraine programme has provided medical training across the country and has delivered more than £3 million worth of medical aid.
The programme has trained more than 800 medical professionals, significantly enhancing the capacity to respond to medical emergencies.
Professor Mark Hannaford, CEO and founder of Medics4Ukraine, said: "We are deeply honoured by this recognition.
"However, the true heroes are the Ukrainian medical professionals who work tirelessly in extremely challenging conditions.
"Our mission is to support them with the skills and knowledge they need to save lives."
Luca Alfatti, an advanced paramedic and co-founder of Medics4Ukraine, said: "This recognition reinforces the importance of our mission in Ukraine.
"As an organisation, we've been able to leverage our expertise in extreme medicine to make a real difference on the ground.
"The courage and resilience of the Ukrainian people continue to inspire us to expand our efforts and reach."
The organisation's work in Ukraine has garnered support from several MPs, including Honiton and Sidmouth MP Richard Foord and Leigh and Atherton MP, Jo Platt.
Medics4Ukraine's success is largely attributed to its partnership with Stepan Skobenyuk, co-founder of Public Trust, the organisation's Ukrainian counterpart.
As in-country logistics manager, Mr Skobenyuk oversees supply movement, verifies aid requests, and coordinates with local units for training and support.
His on-the-ground expertise ensures that Medics4Ukraine's efforts are effectively deployed.
He now resides in Wells, Somerset, with his family, pursuing an MSc while working as a bus driver, embodying the strong UK-Ukraine connections fostered through this humanitarian work.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the need for skilled medical personnel remains critical.
Medics4Ukraine is committed to continuing its support and training programmes as security situations allow, helping to ensure that life-saving medical care is available where it's needed most.
In light of their success and growing impact, Medics4Ukraine is set to expand its operations significantly.
The organisation will be launching as a new entity in the coming months, broadening its scope and reach.
This expansion aims to further enhance their ability to provide crucial medical training and support in conflict zones and other challenging environments.
Those interested in staying informed about this exciting development are encouraged to visit the World Extreme Medicine website and sign up for notifications.
This will ensure they receive first-hand information about the launch and potential opportunities to support or get involved with the organisation's vital work.
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