Britain honors Giuliana with knighthood

NEW YORK (AP) -- Mayor Rudolph Giuliani received an honorary knighthood Monday from Queen Elizabeth II for his "outstanding help and support to the bereaved British families in New York."

The queen also conferred honorary titles -- Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire -- on the city's police and fire commissioners.

The titles were announced during a City Hall visit by the queen's son, Prince Andrew, the Duke of York.

Giuliani, who was named Knight Commander of Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, does not get the right to call himself "Sir Rudolph." But he can put the initials "K.B.E." after his name.

Police Commissioner Bernard Kerik and Fire Commissioner Thomas Von Essen can use the initials "C.B.E."

The announcement included a statement from British Prime Minister Tony Blair, who said Giuliani "provided heroic leadership of the City of New York in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center."

Kerik was honored for "remarkable dedication and professionalism in assisting the relatives of British victims." Von Essen was cited for "remarkable dedication and professionalism in attempting to save the lives of British nationals."

Up to 200 Britons are listed as missing or killed in the Sept. 11 attacks.

Others who have been named honorary Knight Commanders include former Presidents Bush and Reagan, Secretary of State Colin Powell and Bob Hope.