The scarce Gallantry M.S.M. and associated medals to Corporal John Johnson

The scarce Gallantry M.S.M. and associated medals to Corporal John Johnson, Royal Engineers (Inland Water Transport Section): British War Medal 1914-20 (109830 A. CPL. J. JOHNSON. R.E.); Victory Medal, name erased; Meritorious Service Medal, George V (109830 SAPR J. JOHNSON. I. W. T. SEC: R.E.), display mounted, good very fine or better. [2(3)]

M.S.M. London Gazette: 12/03/1917

The recipient's act of gallantry occurred 23/08/1916 while in Tug H.S.7 towing two barges from Hull to Cardiff. When the tow rope parted in heavy seas, Sapper Johnson leaped from the tug onto the barges, and persisted in attempting to take them in tow, in extremely hazardous conditions, until being crushed between a barge and the tug, and loosing his left foot. "The barges had broken adrift twice previously and each time Sapper Johnson had boarded them showing great coolness, courage and pluck in the risky work.". Discharged 28/11/1917 and awarded S.W.B. number 281141. Offered with much research.