Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Canada, Medal of Bravery (M. A. Tobin 25-V-1982) in case of issue, extremely fine £80-£120

M.B. Governor General’s date of Instrument, 23 January 1984; date of Presentation, 22 June 1984.

‘On the afternoon of 25 May 1982, even though legally blind, Mark Tobin saved a man who had jumped off a bridge into the Sydney River [Nova Scotia]. While fishing under the railroad trestle Mr Tobin heard steps above, then a loud splash in the water. He distinguished the man’s red jacket in the distance and, despite his limited vision, jumped fully clothed to his rescue. Guided only by the sound of cries for help, Mr Tobin swam through icy water to the panic-stricken man. Once he had subdued him, he succeeded with much effort in bringing him to shore. He applied artificial respiration until others arrived. Mr Tobin’s personal safety became secondary to the task of rescuing a drowning man.’