The family of a former Royal Ulster Constabulary officer killed in a 1980 landmine attack near Lisnaskea will receive the Elizabeth Emblem, an award established by the late Queen Elizabeth II to recognise families of public servants who died in the line of duty.

Constable Winston Howe, 35, and Constable Joseph 'Joe' Rose, 21, were killed on February 11, 1980, when a landmine exploded as they travelled along the road between Lisnaskea and Rosslea. Both men were serving members of the RUC.

Howe's widow, Harriett Howe, was left to raise their two young children following his death.

His daughter, Harriett Kirkpatrick, described the recognition as very significant to the family. She stated that the late Queen's decision to recognise Winston and others in this way meant a lot to them.

Kirkpatrick said her father was respected and courageous as a police officer, and also a special husband and father, a loyal and caring colleague, and a good neighbour to all irrespective of background. She noted he was at the heart of the community, involved in his church and the Loyal Orders, and farmed outside Rosslea.

"No award or recognition can ever change what has happened, but some consolation is given when those left to carry the burden of grief are formally acknowledged through the Head of State," Kirkpatrick said.

The Elizabeth Emblem was instituted to honour public servants who died in the line of duty, and recipients are announced periodically.