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	Gallantry		Gallantry

	Robert Handford
	Edward Medal
	Date:	25 Oct 1921
	Colliery:	Llanbradach Collieries, Llanbradach, Glamorgan
	Occupation:	Fireman

 

Whitehall, 26th May 1922.

His Majesty The King has been graciously pleased to award the Edward Medal to Robert Handford, fireman at the Llanbradach Collieries, Llanbradach, Glamorgan, in the following circumstances :—

On October 25th, 1921, a fall of roof occurred at the Llanbradach Colliery, Glamorgan, and a collier named Carter was partially buried. Some men working near by came to his assistance and began to clear away the rubbish. They had not proceeded far when Handford, the local fireman, arrived, and immediately started to erect wooden sleepers as a protection for Carter's body. A second fall of about 30 tons took place almost immediately, but the few sleepers already erected prevented Carter being crushed. Handford then cleared the rubbish from Carter's head and had succeeded in putting up some more supports when a third fall of about 45 tons took place and the rescue party had to jump clear. Handford persevered with the work of rescue; he gradually made his way over Carter's body, completely protecting it with timber, and succeeded eventually in freeing him from rubbish with the exception of his left leg, which was securely pinned down by a heavy weight of earth. Repeated attempts were made to pull Carter clear, but without success, and it was decided to amputate his leg. Handford, however, made further attempts, at considerable risk of being buried himself, with such success that Carter was eventually extricated without any serious injury to his leg. Handford for four hours was continuously exposed to the danger of being buried; he displayed great promptitude in facing the situation, and his intelligence and bravery undoubtedly saved Carter's life.

Source: London Gazette (02 Jun 1922)

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