Lance Bombardier Michael Frew, of 19 Regiment (The Highland Gunners) Royal Artillery, was given the honour for his heroic action during a six-month tour of the war- torn country last year.

While serving as the second in command of a Fire Support team, the Dundee gunner sprinted across a bridge under enemy fire to help his comrades get away safely.

The MC was awarded to him for his “extraordinary bravery, application of firepower and tenacity to succeed in the face of perilous danger”.

A former pupil of Menzieshill High School, Michael (26) was a Fire Support Team controller in Helmand province responsible for calling in guns and mortars to support the Infantry.

Expressing his delight at receiving the honour, Michael said, “I had no idea why the CO had called me in. I was very surprised and was not expecting it.

“My parents were really chuffed when I told them about the award — they said well done. My wife Victoria was really pleased as well.”

Monifieth man Sergeant Michael Lockett (27) received his MC in recognition of his actions on the front line in Afghanistan last year.

Sergeant Lockett, a former Monifieth High pupil, serves with the Mercian regiment and was awarded the honour for his “leadership, command, control and supreme courage”.

The honour follows his crucial role in a battle where he bravely dashed into an area under heavy enemy fire to selflessly extract seriously wounded soldiers.

Michael’s mother, April Lockett, said she has been overwhelmed with pride for her son and is overjoyed to see him acknowledged in the operational honours.

She said, “My son phoned me last night to tell me he had been whisked away in a car and had been presented with the Military Cross.

“I am so proud, he got the award for being so brave. I was in tears when I heard.

“I’m over the moon and so proud of him. I have been ringing everyone I know to tell them.”

Michael’s dad, Mal Lockett, who serves in the 225 General Support Medical Regiment in Dundee, said he is thrilled his son’s heroic actions have been recognised.

He said, “I’m just totally and utterly proud of him, but, as Michael would say, we must not forget those who are not able to be here.”

The two local heroes are among 184 members of the armed forces recognised in the operational honours list for their courage and professionalism on operation around the world.