A deservedly proud Col Booth writes: Wendy and I are just back from Canberra where we were privileged to witness [son] Nigel being presented with two bravery awards: one individual and one as part of a group citation. Both were in connection with his efforts in rescuing Chinese people who were being attacked by the rioters in Honiara last year. It seems that Australia has some sophisticated and dangerous crims on our doorstep.

It was a very impressive investiture: lone piper, flag ceremony, etc. An array of people with chests covered in medals a la Mexican general style. Nigel's award was the highest presented on this occasion. There are only two awards of higher precedence in AFP [Australian Federal Police] circles, and I was told that they are usually reserved for incoming commissioners etc.

[Photo: AFP officers alert and ready for trouble in April last year during ‘The Battle of Kukum Highway’ in Honiara. AFP photo]