This petition arises from a deeply personal connection I feel with the great legacy of Lieutenant Colonel Robert Blair "Paddy" Mayne, a man who gave immeasurable service to his nation. Mayne, who originally hailed from Newtownards, Northern Ireland, was a founding member of the Special Air Service (SAS), an elite British military unit. His gallant leadership, unflinching courage, and shrewd tactical gamble were invaluable during the Second World War, helping to turn the tide of multiple crucial battles.

For instance, during Operation Archway in 1945, Mayne and his SAS unit wreaked havoc on German forces, leading to major disarray and contributing significantly to their ultimate defeat (Source: Army Rumour Service). Yet despite his heroics and the numerous lives he saved, Mayne has never received the recognition he deserved - Britain’s highest and most prestigious military decoration, the Victoria Cross.

This petition, therefore, fights for the posthumous awarding of the Victoria Cross to Lieutenant Colonel Robert Blair "Paddy" Mayne, correcting a historical oversight and honouring a great war hero unacknowledged for far too long. We ask for your support; sign this petition and let's give Mayne the recognition his braveness truly merits.