Memorial stone in East London Cemetery to eight Civil Defence workers who were killed during an air raid at Custom House School, April 1941. Several streets in Canning Town are named after the men, such as Appleby Road on the Keir Hardie estate.

George Medal awarded to Frederick John Redman.

As well as medals awarded for service in the First World War, (Images on this web-site) Mr Redman further distinguished himself as a civilian in the Second World War. The George Medal was awarded when he was working at the Gas Light and Coke Company as Chief Valve-man. Redman and several other men were awarded the GM for their courageous action. The following is an extract of the report, as it relates to Redman, which appeared in the Supplement to the London Gazette of 21 March, 1941:-

Mr. Redman was responsible for saving the gas holders by turning off the valves, a long and difficult process.  To do this he worked between blazing sheds and pumping stations with bombs falling all round.  There was the added danger of exploding mains and gas fumes.  Redman displayed great courage and endurance.

(see attachment for reverse side of medal)

Part of Newham Heritage & Archives collection

Arragon Road Depot ARP Stretcher Party. In their anti-gas outfits, and all wearing their gas masks.

Photo: Newham Heritage & Archives

My father, Sydney Charles Turfrey's Merchant Navy log book for wartime service. This is his second book the first was lost in service. Inner pages show some of the ships he served on. The Ocean Virtue shows no return port as it was damaged and sank during the invasion of Sicily on the 21st of July 1943.

Posted by Eddie