Campaign medal for injured marine

Mark Ormrod says he has won his toughest battle yet

A marine who lost both legs and an arm while on duty in Afghanistan has been presented with a campaign medal.

Mark Ormrod, 24, of Plymouth, Devon, lost his limbs on Christmas Eve when he stepped on a mine in Helmand province.

He has spent the past three months at a rehabilitation centre learning how to walk unaided using bionic legs.

The marine, of 40 Commando based in Taunton, looked on as more than 2,000 people gathered for the awards and two Harrier TR9s flew over the barracks.

He was pictured in April chatting with Princes Harry and William during a royal visit to the rehabilitation centre in Epsom. Marine Ormrod, who trained alongside Prince Harry, said of the prince: "He's been out there and he's seen and done it.

"It makes a difference to us rather than having someone who hasn't experienced it, it makes them more genuine."

Mark Ormrod with Princes Harry and William at a rehabilitation centre

Marine Ormrod only stood for the first time two weeks ago and now hopes that he will be able to walk at his wedding next year.

He said: "When I first stood up, being 6ft tall again brought a lump to my throat and I felt a bit dizzy standing after such a long time."

The Commandos took part in a special ceremonial parade and received their campaign medals at Norton Manor Camp, Taunton, in front of family and friends.

After the ceremony Vice Adm Adrian Johns paid tribute to Mark Ormrod saying that he was known as a "legend" at his hospital in Birmingham for making such good progress.

Marine Ormrod said walking up to collect his medal had always been "the driving force" behind his remarkable recovery after stepping on a landmine.