| Gallantry |
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Gallantry | ||
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Awards for Gallantry
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John William Henry Shepherd |
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Edward Medal | |||
| Date: | 16 Oct 1929 | ||
| Colliery: | Jarrow | ||
| Occupation: | |||
Whitehall, February 6, 1930.
His Majesty The KING has been graciously pleased to award the Edward Medal to John William Henry Shepherdin recognition of his gallantry in the following circumstances:—
John Shepherd together with Hugh Black were detailed to clean a steam boiler at Palmers Shipbuilding and Iron Company Limited, Jarrow. On October 16th, 1929, Black entered the boiler and Shepherd was about to follow when he detected traces of gas. In reply to a call, he received only a faint reply from Black, and immediately climbed inside to go to his help. He found Black half conscious some twenty-five feet from the boiler manhole. He endeavoured to drag him to the opening but had to abandon the attempt as he was succumbing to the action of the gas. He made his way out of the boiler, called for help and, though still seriously affected by the gas, returned with a rope which he tried to fasten round his comrade who was then unconscious. He collapsed, however, before being able to do so.
Further assistance was procured. Compressed air was used to clear the gas out of the boiler, and eventually a rescue party wearing respirators succeeded in extricating both Black and Shepherd. Black unfortunately died a few hours later.
Twice during the course of the rescue operations Shepherd put his life in grave danger in a brave attempt to save the life of his fellow workman.
Source: London Gazette (14 Feb 1930)
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