A heroic police officer who paid the ultimate sacrifice while selflessly tried to protect the public during a terrorist attack outside Parliament is to receive a bravery award.
PC Keith Palmer was killed during the Westminster Bridge attack on March 22 this year, in which four other victims died and more than 50 people were injured.
Despite attacker Khalid Masood being armed with two large knives, PC Palmer moved to confront him but was fatally stabbed in the grounds of the Palace of Westminster.
In the Queen's civilian gallantry list, published on Friday (June 16), PC Palmer has been commended for his bravery - he is to be awarded a posthumous George Medal.
Westminster attack
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick said: "Keith acted that day with no thought for his own safety, intent simply on doing his job and protecting members of the public and Parliament.
"He paid the ultimate price for his selfless actions. We continue to grieve the loss of a much-loved and respected colleague and friend while supporting his family through this truly difficult time.
"I know that I speak on behalf of all of my officers and staff when I say how immensely proud we all are that PC Palmer is to receive posthumously the George Medal for bravery.
"It is an honour that could not be more deserved and I know it will mean a great deal to all those who knew and loved him."
The Met Police said that PC Palmer's actions provided time for other officers to react and shoot and stop the assailant, who moments before had ploughed a vehicle into pedestrians on Westminster Bridge.
The gallantry list citation says: "PC Palmer's bravery and professionalism unquestionably saved lives.
"PC Palmer did his duty. He stood his ground and placed himself between Parliament and a terrorist determined to harm those within.
"In doing so he made the ultimate sacrifice."
Days after his death, on March 27, his family paid tribute to him. They said: "We have been overwhelmed by the love and support of our family, and most especially, the outpouring of love and respect for Keith.
"We want to thank everyone who has reached out to us over the past few days for their kindness and generosity.
"The police have been a constant, unwavering support at this very difficult time. It has made us realise what a caring, strong and supportive family Keith was part of during his career with the police. We can't thank them enough."
The statement added: “We would also like to express our gratitude to the people who were with Keith in his last moments and who were working that day. There was nothing more you could have done.
"You did your best and we are just grateful he was not alone. We care about him being remembered for his selfless bravery and loving nature.
"We miss him so much, but we are incredibly proud of Keith."
PC Palmer had been in the Metropolitan Police Service for 16 years, serving on the Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection Group since April 2016 and previously the Territorial Support Group.
Between 2002 and 2009, he was based in Bromley borough.
In 2015, he'd been nominated for "best thief taker" in the Commissioner's Excellence Awards, having made more than 150 arrests in 12 months.
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