A Shropshire-based army regiment was today at the centre of an official investigation into the way bravery medals were awarded.

The 1st battalion The Royal Irish Regiment, based at Clive Barracks, Tern Hill, is involved in the probe and its commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel Ed Freely, could be quizzed by military investigators.

An unnamed soldier has made claims that one medal was handed out based on an “overblown” citation and now a number of bravery medals awarded to the troops who fought in Afghanistan may be reviewed.

It is thought to be the first time in more than 300 years of British military history that an inquiry has been launched into how gallantry medals have been awarded.

The review comes after Major Robert Armstrong, from the Royal Artillery, was detained by Royal Military Police on Friday so he could be interviewed under caution.

Major Armstrong was attached with the 1st battalion The Royal Irish Regiment in Helmand, Afghanistan, last year.

Inspirational

The 35-year-old was awarded a Military Cross in March this year for “consistent bravery and inspirational leadership” in Afghanistan.

The officer’s own citation said: “While mentoring the Afghan National Army vehicle patrol Armstrong showed consistent bravery and inspirational leadership. As a result of his calm leadership under fire, losses were prevented and the lives of those injured were saved.”

Military police officers are also investigating other medals awarded to the regiment as part of the probe.

According to military sources it is believed 17 honours and awards bestowed on members of the battle group may be reviewed if the allegations against Major Armstrong prove substantial. The investigation was described as being “in its very early stages”.

An Army spokesman today said: “We are aware of an allegation that a citation on which a gallantry award was made on the March 2009 Operational Honours list was factually incorrect.

“The Royal Military Police Special Investigation Branch are investigating the matter and it would therefore be inappropriate to comment further whilst this is ongoing.”

By Tom Johannsen