New Year's honours list for most moving contributions in public life

As noted by the BBC, British divers Richard Stanton and John Volanthen were first to reach the Thai boys trapped in a cave this year in a rescue that captured the attention of the world. They received the George Medal. Joshua Bratchley, Vernon Unsworth and Lance Corporal Connor Roe were appointed MBEs for their involvement in the rescue. Jason Mallinson and Christopher Jewell received the Queen’s Gallantry Medal, awarded for commendable acts of bravery.

Heather Smart became the first female firefighter in Northern Ireland in 1991 and retired earlier in 2018. Smart will receive an MBE in the latest New Year’s honours. She reportedly paved the way for the now 62 women in the firefighting service in Northern Ireland. Interim chief fire officer Alan Walmsley said she was a “passionate advocate and ambassador” for other female members of the force. He said it was a “fitting recognition” for her services.