Lance Corporal Matthew Wilson becomes the first man to be given the freedom of Ceredigion.

Lance Corporal Matthew Wilson who fought on despite being shot in the head whilst serving in Afghanistan  has become the first man to be given the freedom of Ceredigion.

Military Speaker Lance Corporal Mathew Wilson who fought on despite being shot in the head has become the first man to be given the freedom of Ceredigion.

Lance Corporal Matthew Wilson of 2 Rifles has become the first man to be awarded the freedom of Ceredigion. Lance Corporal Wilson, who was also awarded the Military Medal last year for his 'exemplary gallantry'  after he fought on despite being shot in the head whilst serving in Afghanistan, will be officially awarded the title later in the month. The honour has also been bestowed on the Royal Welsh Regiment.

Lance Corporal Wilson received the Military Cross for running into open ground to protect a wounded comrade whilst under attack in the Nahr-e Saraj. It was whilst doing this a bullet glanced off the top of his helmet, knocking him unconscious for 30 seconds. As he awoke he dodged a hail of bullets to find cover and return fire.

Insurgents tried to shoot down a casualty evacuation helicopter, but Lance Corporal Wilson stood on a wall to point out the insurgents' firing spot to an incoming Apache attack helicopter.

Speaking of his latest accolade, Lance Corporal Wilson said; "From what I understand it's an honorary title more than anything so I'm not sure if it means that I'll be welcome to go wherever I want in the county.

"But it's an honour I certainly did not expect, I've been surprised by how much attention my actions have brought to be honest, I was just doing the job I was trained for."

At a special local authority meeting Ceredigion councillor Dai Mason said he was "immensely proud" of Matthew's efforts and that everyone in Ceredigion should be too.

"Matthew's bravery and dedication to his comrades is an example of why the British forces are the best in the world," he said.

Full Story available at: http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/2013/02/08/welsh-soldier-matthew-wilson-becomes-first-person-awarded-freedom-of-ceredigion-91466-32767033/