Captain James Knight RM, attached 1 Prince of Wales's Royal Regiment, was awarded the Military Cross for gallant and distinguished services in Iraq during the period 1st October 2006 to 31st March 2007.

During a visit to an Iraqi Police Station, Captain Knight and his platoon of four Warriors came under sustained and coordinated attack by up to 50 insurgents using rocket propelled grenades and small arms.

As the situation rapidly deteriorated, he took the initiative. Whilst coordinating the battle, he identified a gunman and engaged him with nine rounds. Under substantial pressure he calmly repositioned his forces to counter the enemy thrusts. His strong and considered leadership was the major factor in the successful action of his platoon, who sustained only one minor casualty. In addition he has led his platoon in three other major contacts, which included leading his men in a contact which became the largest and most intense battle in Iraq since 2004.