The Queen's Birthday Honours allow us to pay tribute to all those who have gone above and beyond in their service to this country. Throughout the pandemic we have seen countless examples of every day heroes.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson
25 June 2021
Defence Studies Alumni in 2021 Queen's Birthday Honours
Three previous Defence Studies MA students feature in the Queens birthday honours
A host of King’s alumni have been recognised by The Queen in this year’s Birthday Honours, including three previous Defence Studies MA students.
Among the honourees is Nick Elliot who was involved in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Samantha Birch and Elizabeth Brown are recognised for their commitment and dedication to many other areas.
Samantha Birch (MA Defence Studies, 2016) has been awarded an Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to internal defence relations. She is Senior Advisor to the First Deputy Minister of the Afghan Ministry of Interior.
Elizabeth Brown (MA Defence Studies, 2000) has been awarded an OBE for services to Veterans. Elizabeth is a Veterans Support Officer.
Nick Elliott (MA Defence Studies, 1998) has been awarded a Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB) for services to the COVID-19 Response. As Director General of the UK Vaccine Taskforce, Nick played a central role in the UK’s vaccine response.