Medal of the Order of the British Empire, named (J W Edwards...

Hammer

£340

Medal of the Order of the British Empire, named (J W Edwards 1921) L/G 12/10/1920 Sgt E Division Metropolitan Police Special Constabulary, the only man of this name. His recomendation reads 'for service in the force during the War which has been distinguised by conspicuous courage or by exceptional zeal and devotion to duty. Joined as Constable in August 1914, is now a Sub-Inspector, has performed 608 duties, still reports daily. He was present at most Air Raids as a member of my Ambulance Section, in which he had done excellent work at all times. But it is in connection with the Riad which took place on 28/1/1918 at Oldham's that I wish to specially bring his name forward. He was on the scene within a minute or of the bomb dropping. He at once grasped the situation and with himself, Heffer, Macaulay and others (they) broke open a yard where hand-barrows are kept for hire, and with these were able to remove some seven or eight cases to hospital before the regualr ambulance arrived. He was of the greates assistance to Mr Wallis in extracting dead and dying from the building at very great personal risk, and I am glad to be able to put his servcies on record'. (1)