Orders, Decorations and Medals

A George Medal awarded to Gunner Thomas Scully, Royal Artillery, for saving lives after an air raid in Liverpool

GEORGE MEDAL, G.VI.R., 1st type (No. 1703207 Gunner, R.A.) mounted on original investiture pin, edge bruise, otherwise very fine

G.M., London Gazette, 21 October, 1941. 'In recognition of conspicuous gallantry in carrying out hazardous work in a very brave manner.' The following details were extracted from official sources: 'On 2 May 1941 high explosive bombs demolished a number of houses in Chancel Street, Liverpool, and people were trapped under the wreckage. After tunnelling for more than fourteen yards a Police Sgt. managed to reach some people who were trapped under the debris. After dragging out a man and a woman, the Police Sgt. again entered the tunnel and when within a few feet of two other people was himself trapped by a sudden fall of debris. Gunner Scully, who had been assisting the Police Sgt. by passing debris out of the tunnel, went to the rear of the house and after removing a considerable amount of rubble managed to tunnel a way to and eventually release two persons and also the Police Sgt., the latter being removed to hospital. Although almost exhausted, Gnr. Scully stuck tenaciously to his task, and it was largely due to his efforts that three people were rescued alive.'