Labour MP’s husband accused of ‘stolen valour’ over Iraq war badge
Labour MP's husband faces accusations of falsely claiming military service
A Labour MP’s husband has been accused of ‘stolen valour’ for wearing an Iraq war badge and allegedly claiming he served in the commandos. Greg Brackenridge, 53, a former Wolverhampton mayor and firefighter, has reportedly told voters he had a career in the Marines. Despite claims of serving several years in the 45 Commando amphibious commando unit, he did not complete the training.
Brackenridge, currently the Chair of the West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority, has been seen wearing a veterans’ badge from the Iraq War (1990-1991) and a Royal Marines Corps tie. His wife, Sureena, won the Wolverhampton North East seat for Labour in July, with their son Ciaran also serving as a councillor.
Brackenridge has requested the Ministry of Defence to investigate alleged illegal access to his military records amid questions about his service legitimacy. He maintains his right to be called a ‘former Royal Marine’. In 2021, he claimed to have served as a Royal Marine after leaving school, working with diverse military personnel, including Nepalese Gorkhas.
West Midlands Fire Authority chief steps up security amid 'threats' claims
Coun Greg Brackenridge says he has also asked MoD to probe alleged leak of his his military service record
Does this dickhead not realise people were there at the same time that he failed?
The MoD should… pic.twitter.com/7qvCjhOWci— Craig in England (@ghost_wales) October 11, 2024
Brackenridge’s bio on the Wolverhampton Labour Group site, now removed, previously highlighted his service in the Royal Marines and as a firefighter. He stated his military career ended for personal reasons. He expressed distress over being attacked for his military aspirations and voiced concerns over the alleged illegal access to his service records, calling it a GDPR breach. He is discussing legal steps with lawyers.
Reports indicate he left the training course in 1988, achieving only the rank of recruit without earning his Green Beret. A source noted that without completing training, he remained a recruit. Brackenridge mentioned receiving threatening messages following online rumours about his military service, which he believes aim to intimidate him into resigning. Posts on Facebook accused him of misleading the public and wearing military insignia deceitfully.
Wolverhampton Council stated that any allegations against councillors would be addressed through the council’s Code of Conduct process. These revelations emerged soon after the Fire Service’s interim chief executive, Oliver Lee, resigned following internal power struggles and allegations. He criticised Brackenridge as being ‘untruthful’ about his military service about Iraq War.
Lee, who served as the Commanding Officer of 45 Commando Group from 2009 to 2012, accused the Fire Authority of lacking transparency and honesty. He resigned to avoid legal battles and preserve his family’s well-being. Decorated former Royal Marine Colonel Lee, recognised with MBE and OBE for his leadership in Afghanistan, had been appointed after Wayne Brown, the previous chief, died amid an investigation into his qualifications. Comments from Cllr and Mrs Brackenridge are awaited.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Who is Greg Brackenridge?
Greg Brackenridge is a former Wolverhampton mayor, firefighter, and current Chair of the West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority.
Why is Greg Brackenridge accused of ‘stolen valour’?
He is accused of wearing an Iraq war badge and allegedly claiming he served in the commandos without completing the training.
Did Greg Brackenridge serve in the Royal Marines?
He attended Royal Marines training but did not complete it, achieving only the rank of recruit.
What actions has Greg Brackenridge taken in response to the accusations?
He has requested the Ministry of Defence to investigate alleged illegal access to his military records and is discussing legal steps with lawyers.
What recent issues have affected the West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority leadership?
Interim chief executive Oliver Lee resigned following internal power struggles and allegations, criticizing Brackenridge for being ‘untruthful’ about his military service.
