Richard Thompson, Esq. O.B.E. 6/26/2011 (updated 6/29/2011) Richard Thompson, Esq. O.B.E. Folk Musician and Songwriter For services to Music Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has named RICHARD THOMPSON to the 2011 Honours List as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire. The Honour was bestowed by The Queen during an Investiture Ceremony at Buckingham Palace, 28 June 2011. Charles Green Photography Our day at Buckingham Palace! Nancy Covey RT's Royal Investiture Ceremony The OBE was instituted by King George V in 1917, as recognition of those who have made significant non-military contributions to the British Empire. Britain's honours are bestowed twice a year by the Monarch — at New Year's and on Her Majesty's official birthday in June — but recipients are selected by committees of civil servants from nominations made by the government and the public. Note to non-British readers: MBE, OBE, CBE, are honours given by The Queen that mean you can, if you wish, but don't have to, use those letters after your name. KBE means you are a Knight, and should be addressed 'Sir'. NEW YEARS' PRESS ANNOUNCEMENTS