On 31 October 2003, Finney was awarded the George Cross (GC) — the highest award for acts of conspicuous gallantry performed when not in the face of the enemy, becoming the youngest serviceman in the British Armed Forces to receive it, and only the 154th direct recipient since its inception in 1940 (a number of recipients of other medals had their award converted to a GC). Lance-Corporal of Horse Mick Flynn, also of the Blues and Royals, was awarded the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross for the same action. Sergeant Andrew Sindall of the Royal Engineers, who was attached to D Squadron, was also awarded the Queen's Gallantry Medal. The award was presented to Finney at Buckingham Palace on 25 February 2004 by Queen Elizabeth II.