Tweet

	Gallantry		Gallantry

	John McMurdo
	Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct
	Date:	1953
	Colliery:	Fauldhead Colliery
	Occupation:	Face Worker

 

Awarded the British Empire Medal (Civil Division):—

Gilbert Clark, Miner, Fauldhead Colliery, Scottish Division, National Coal Board. (Kelloholm, Dumfriesshire.)

Andrew McCluskie, Miner, Fauldhead Colliery, Scottish Division, National Coal Board. (Kelloholm, Dumfriesshire.)

When an accident occurred at Fauldhead Colliery, a fall of roof displaced a number of props and a miner was trapped by a large stone. The dirt in the side of the roads prevented the full weight of the stone bearing on him and McCluskie and Clark attempted to release the trapped man by levering the stone. The roof was in a dangerous state and gave every indication of further collapse. Attempts were made by other workmen to support the roof but before the miner could be pulled clear another fall occurred and McCluskie and Clark were trapped. They were eventually released.

Both men displayed courage and perseverance and risked their lives in the attempted rescue.

Queen's Commendations for Brave Conduct

William Bennett, Drawer, Fauldhead Colliery, Scottish Division, National Coal Board. (Kirkconnel, Dumfriesshire.)

John Harper, Drawer, Fauldhead Colliery, Scottish Division, National Coal Board. (Kirkconnel, Dumfriesshire.)

James Lynn, Faceman, Fauldhead Colliery, Scottish Division, National Coal Board. (Kirkconnel, Dumfriesshire.)

John McCall, Drawer, Fauldhead Colliery, Scottish Division, National Coal Board. (Kirkconnel, Dumfriesshire.)

James McCluskie, Faceman, Fauldhead Colliery, Scottish Division, National Coal Board. (Kirkconnel, Dumfriesshire.)

John McMurdo, Face Worker, Fauldhead Colliery, Scottish Division, National Coal Board. (Kirkconnel, Dumfriesshire.)

For services when an accident occurred in a mine.

Source: London Gazette (13 Nov 1953)

What is your name?
What is your contact email address?
What is your research interest?