This year’s Kings Birthday honours list has seen has seen thirteen members of the British Army selected to receive operational honours and awards for their outstanding achievements, selfless commitment and exceptional bravery
I am both humbled and honoured to receive this
The Allied Rapid Reaction Corps is pleased to announce the King’s Commendation for Bravery (KCB): Non-Operational, has been awarded to Major Harry Wallace for acts of bravery not in the face of the enemy
Maj H. Wallace. Royal Artillery
Recognised for his exceptional bravery is Major Wallace, of the Royal Artillery, who risked his life trying to save a trapped motorist from their burning vehicle.
On learning of his award Major Wallace said: “I am both humbled and honoured to receive this award and hugely appreciative of my chain of command for taking the time to nominate me.”
Major Wallace was one of the first on the scene of the accident and could see the driver was trapped and unconscious.
His citation said: “Taking immediate action, he marshalled the support of others who had arrived and they attempted to extinguish the fire and extract the driver.
“With scant regard for his own safety and with thick smoke billowing, he climbed into the rear of the car in an attempt to pull the driver out. However, as the fire took hold Major Wallace was forced to abandon his rescue attempt.”
Sadly, the emergency services were unable to save the driver. Major Wallace was himself injured and needed hospital treatment following the rescue attempt.
“I am only sorry that I could not have done more under challenging conditions, and I’m grateful to the Army for instilling a mindset that to do nothing was not an option,” said Major Wallace. “I am proud to say that there are scores of people in my organisation who would have taken the same actions under the circumstances.”