Two British explosive ordnance disposal experts have been recognized by King Charles III for their humanitarian work in the Gaza Strip, where they helped mitigate the dangers posed by unexploded bombs amid ongoing conflict. Former soldiers Simon Elmont and Gary Toombs were honored with the Humanitarian Medal, marking the first time the award has been granted to an explosive ordnance disposal team.

The pair carried out their work on behalf of the charity Humanity & Inclusion, an organization that assists disabled and vulnerable populations. Their mission focused on locating and managing unexploded ordnance throughout Gaza, which has faced extensive bombardment over the past three years. It is estimated that approximately 70,000 tons of explosives have impacted the area since the conflict began, leaving the densely populated enclave of 2.1 million people strewn with hundreds of unexploded devices, some weighing as much as 2,000 pounds.

Simon Elmont, 57, who has two children, described the hazardous environment, highlighting how civilians, including children, often live amid remnants of warfare. He recounted instances where children were seen playing amidst weapons debris and improvised shelters constructed using metal from rocket launchers and other military hardware. He also cited examples of injuries sustained by youths when unexploded mortars detonated.

Humanity & Inclusion deployed teams to conduct explosive hazard surveys aimed at ensuring key locations — such as hospitals, shelters, and spaces designated for displaced persons — were free of ordnance and safe for humanitarian use. The organization’s personnel also escorted aid convoys delivering essential supplies to the area.

Throughout their deployment, the British team conducted approximately 57,000 ordnance risk education sessions, reaching more than 700,000 individuals, including over 700 humanitarian workers. Their efforts sought to reduce risks posed by explosive remnants of war, protect civilians, and facilitate safer humanitarian access in a region grappling with the aftermath of violent hostilities following the Hamas attacks in early October 2023.

Gary Toombs, 54, emphasized the dedication of humanitarian professionals working under challenging and dangerous conditions. He expressed pride and humility in receiving the accolade but underscored the collective commitment of all colleagues involved in this complex humanitarian effort, noting that their work is driven by principles aimed at alleviating the suffering of conflict-affected communities.