A GALLANT RESCUE

Evening Post, Volume CIX, Issue 44, 21 February 1930, Page 14

A GALLANT RESCUE

SILVER MEDAL PRESENTED

On 26th July last Mr. W. H. Henderson, then of Huntly, rescued a fellowworker from a fall of coal in a mine, and made a gallant attempt to rescue another. The Koyal Humane Society of New Zealand describes the deed thus: "While extracting coal in. the llotowaro coal mine, Samuel Broadbent -was held by a small'fall of coal, i Henderson and O'Brien went to Broadbent'a assistance, and he was eventually rescued, although both Henderson and O brien realised that a heavier fall would be ex: pected at any minute. t This fall of approximately 100 tons took place, killing Broadbent, burying O'Brion up. to ...Ms waist, and severely injuring Henderson. Nevertheless Henderson returned immediately to rescue O'Brion and eventually succeeded, although the- coal and stone overhead showed every sign of a sudden collapse. and of killing both. This collapse took place shortly after Henderson had succeeded, in getting, O'Brien clear by shovelling the coal off1 Mm." ■"'.' •'■ ■'■■ ;' ;■'. In recognition of his bravery m saving life the Boyal Humane ■ Societyawarded to Mr. Henderson its silver medal, the second highest honour it can bestow. The medal was presented to Mr. Henderson, who is now residing in Eastbourne, in the Eastbourne Borough Council Chamber last night by the Mayor (Mr. H. M. Jones) in the presence of the councillors aud the public.

The Mayor congratulated Mr. Henderson on the tenacity and bravery he had displayed in-performing: this act, which would earn for him throughout his life the respect and admiration, of his associates. ■

Mr. Walter Nash, M.P., added his congratulations, saying, that Mr. Henderson's forgetfulness of self in his desire to aid others was an inspiration to all. Mr. Nash apologised for the unavoidable absence of Mr. W. Leo Martin, M.P., in whose electorate Mr. Henderson had performed his courageous act) Mr. P. Coira, "Wellington representative of the Royal Humane Society, also spoke, stressing the fact that the society did not bestow its honuors lightly, and that any award granted was fully earned. Mr,,Henderson's act, he said, was a particularly brave one.

\Mr. Henderson, who was accompanied by his wife, returned thanks briefly, and the meeting concluded with cheers for him. ;, . .