Battle of Al Waki Market

The Battle of Al Waki Market was a battle that took place in August 2007 in Al Waki Market in Basra, Iraq, between No. 1 Squadron RAF Regiment and approximately 50 members of the Iraqi insurgency. It is notable as the battle for which the first Military Cross was awarded to an airman of the Royal Air Force.

The battle
It lasted nearly two hours. At least 16 insurgents died. Martin Beard, a member of the RAF Regiment, was also killed. Corporal David Hayden carried Beard over 200m under enemy fire to medical aid, however, Beard died of his wounds. For his actions, Corporal Hayden became the first airman of the RAF to be awarded the Military Cross.

Painting
The battle is the subject of a painting by Stuart Brown, commissioned by the RAF Regiment. Copies of the painting are on display in several military buildings around the United Kingdom.