British News Agency

Dutch Defense Minister Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius announced that a soldier named Dempster, who protected his unit commander under heavy enemy fire while serving in Afghanistan, was awarded the Cross of Merit nearly 20 years after the incident.

Yeşilgöz-Zegerius said soldiers sometimes describe their missions by saying, “I was just doing my job,” but noted that some duties carry special significance.

Yeşilgöz-Zegerius said Dempster protected his unit commander under intense enemy fire in Afghanistan.

Yeşilgöz-Zegerius said Dempster was awarded the Cross of Merit nearly 20 years later for this action, recognizing the courage and dedication he demonstrated.