By Sheila Mckenzie-
The national coordinating Gold commander for the policing operation around the funeral last year, Ms Dorsi – was announced on Friday night as a recipient of an honour under the Royal Victorian Order (RVO).
These awards are gifted by the King to people who serve the monarch in a personal way.
The sovereign of the order’s motto is Victoria, and its official day is 20 June.[b] The order’s chapel is the Savoy Chapel in London.
There is no limit on the number of individuals honoured at any grade,[1] and admission remains at the sole discretion of the monarch,
Ms D’Orsi said: “I feel honoured to receive the Commander of the Royal Victorian Order. To be recognised for personal services to the monarch is something I will always cherish.
“I am extremely proud of the preparation and delivery of the national policing for Operation London Bridge, which was such a historic operation on a global stage. It showed the best of UK policing which was only possible due to the dedication and pride of those I am privileged to work with.”
Ms D’Orsi was the national police lead for Operation London Bridge, which saw her lead the policing operation around the funeral in September last year.
Thousands of police officers from across the UK supported ten days of ceremonial events, ensuring the security of everyone visiting to pay their respects.
Other people on the list include the RAF flight crew who transported the Queen’s coffin from Scotland to London, coffin bearers and senior managers from the household and government.
Ms D’Orsi added: “I have been fortunate to work in such a unique position and will always look back fondly on my time with Her Majesty, who always showed me great kindness. Her devotion to public service will inspire others to protect their communities – making the United Kingdom a better and safer place for generations to come.
“I am grateful to those who have supported me in this work, especially my family and friends who have always been so kind and understanding. They continue to be there for me which makes me feel lucky every day.”
Also honoured was Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Chief Superintendent Davy Beck, who was made a member of the Royal Victorian Order for his role in the operation following the death of the Queen.
He is one of only a few police officers to receive this prestigious award, which recognises distinguished personal service to the British monarch.
Chief Superintendent Davy Beck Image: PA
He said: “I am delighted and honoured to receive such a significant award and whilst it was a deeply sad occasion, I felt privileged to have contributed through my role in leading the policing operation for the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
“Having such dedicated and professional colleagues ensured the operation was carried out expertly and I would like to thank them for their contribution. I would also like to thank my family for their unwavering support over the course of my career.
“This is a hugely memorable occasion for me for which I am very grateful.”
PSNI Chief Constable, Simon Byrne commented: “The awarding of this recognition to Chief Superintendent Davy Beck is a testament to the strong leadership and skilled professionalism he displayed during the overseeing of the operation for the sad passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
“I extend my congratulations to Chief Superintendent Beck and am pleased his work is being acknowledged at such a prestigious level.”
Founded by Queen Victoria in 1896, the Royal Victorian Order is an award bestowed at the discretion of the Sovereign and is used to recognise a wide variety of services to the Royal Family.
The funeral of the monarch was a very successful one, but had its moments of controversy, especially when officers where considered to have interfered with protesters of the monarchy who held placards during the queen’s funeral.
Human Rights lawyers accused the police of being to heavy handed, and depriving protesters of their right to free speech.
A police sergeant who insisted on anonymity said told The Eye Of Media.Com on the condition of anonymity: ”officers did a very good job during the funeral her Majesty the Queen in the face of some challenges. Protesters disrupted, and some of those arrested were restricted for infringing the rights of those entitled to freedom of assembly. Freedom of speech is not an absolute right under the Human Rights Act. Officers had to sometimes apply a balancing act in determining when it was lawful to act”.