CHEPSTOW-based soldiers are to receive top bravery awards for their heroic actions in Afghanistan.

Acting Serjeant Mark Powis and Corporal Sean Keenan were awarded the Military Cross.

Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Cavanagh, who is also stationed in Beachley, Chepstow, is to receive the Distinguished Service Order Medal for his leadership in combat in Afghanistan.

Serjeant Powis, 26, The Rifles, who was with an operational mentoring and liaison team (OMLT) operating alongside the Afghan national army, was on the roof of a compound when they came under sustained automatic fire and his commander was seriously wounded.

His citation lauded his inspirational speed, raw courage and great presence of mind.

He and a colleague dragged the commander to safety despite enemy fire.

He remounted the roof twice more, to recover a radio and to identify the enemy positions to plan a route out.

As the patrol withdrew, he again placed himself in the most danger, protecting the rear and maintaining fire as they were pursued.

Corporal Keenan, who was also part of an OMLT, placed himself in considerable danger after his patrol was ambushed, treating wounded colleagues while suffering multiple shrapnel wounds during a second onslaught of rocket-propelled grenades.

He was further wounded by another round of enemy fire which ignited a grenade in the hectic casualty area.

His citation praised his courage and willpower.

In the judgement of the Afghan, US and UN authorities, 40-year-old Lieutenant Colonel Cavanagh, The Rifles, was the most highly acclaimed mentor to the Brigade Commander of the Afghanistan National Army since the UK began performing the role three years ago.

He was also recognised as the focal point of his unit as the commanding officer to the OMLT force.

"It was a performance of discretionary bravery and inspirational resilience that demands lasting national recognition."