Description
Physical description
Circular medal 36mm in diameter in cupro-nickel. The obverse bears the crowned head of King George VI, with the legend 'GEORGIVS VI D : G : BR : OMN : REX ET INDIAE IMP :'.The reverse bears the image of a lion, facing left, trampling upon a monster having both an eagle's and a serpent's head, and talons and scaled tail of a dragon. The lion's right forepaw rests upon the eagle head. The dates '1939' and '1945' appear above the lion. The medal has a straight suspender bar. The ribbon, which is 32mm in width, is red with a central vertical stripe of navy blue and three narrow central vertical stripes of white, red and white. The colours are those of the Union Flag.
Label
Second World War service medal awarded to Lieutenant Commander John Bridge, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve (RNVR). For biographical information and details of the circumstances of award for his George Cross and George Medal (and bar) see OMD 6377.
One of a group of ten medals, OMD 6377-6386.
History note
Second World War service medal awarded to Lieutenant Commander John Bridge, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve (RNVR). For biographical information and details of the circumstances of award for his George Cross and George Medal (and bar) see OMD 6377.
One of a group of ten medals, OMD 6377-6386.
History note
John Bridge won the George Cross for clearing enemy depth charges from Messina Harbour in Sicily in August 1943. During the war he was also awarded the George Medal twice, and a King's Commendation for Brave Conduct; in each instance this was for defusing bombs and mines.
His leading role in clearing over 200 devices at Messina showed exceptional bravery - however the citation for his GC published in the London Gazette of 20 June 1944 is brief: "for great gallantry and undaunted devotion to duty."
See file for detailed account of his actions.
The oakleaf on the ribbon of this medal indicates the award of the King's Commendation for Brave Conduct.