Thai cave rescue: Aussie hero divers to get top honours as Elon Musk’s slur costs him

PRIME Minister Malcolm Turnbull has confirmed the Australian cave divers who helped rescue the Thai soccer team from a flooded cave will receive civilian honours for their “extraordinary acts of heroism”.

The Prime Minister told 3AW radio this morning he had begun the process to formally recognise the Australians involved.

He dubbed the rescue “one of the most extraordinary acts of heroism, professionalism, discipline, team work”.

“That was an example to all of us. A team brought from all over the world showing what people of goodwill and discipline and courage can do when they work together,” he said.

Asked whether Australian anaesthetist Dr Richard ‘Harry’ Harris should be Australian of the Year for his pivotal role in the rescue, Mr Turnbull said: “He is one of the greatest examples of every Australian value we hold dear.”

More than 44,270 people have already signed a petition created last week to recognise Dr Harris and his dive buddy Craig Challen with Australia’s highest bravery award, the Cross of Valour.

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