Orders, Decorations and Medals

Sea Gallantry Medal, E.VII.R., small 2nd issue, bronze (Timothy Cahill, 14th September, 1908) pitted, worn £160-200

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Collection of Life Saving Awards formed by The Late W.H. Fevyer.

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Ref. Spink Exhibition 1985, No. 107.

‘Whilst catching mackerel off Valencia the two boats were swamped and 6 men drowned. The remainder (13) were rescued by Michael Cahill and his crew by means of their Seine boat and follower. Although weather was fairly fine there was a strong ebb tide and much broken water and the 18 men engaged in the rescue ran no inconsiderable risk’. (Ref. P.R.O. BT.261.5).

The Sea Gallantry Medal in bronze was awarded to the 18 men engaged in the rescue operations. The men, fishermen of Knightstown, Valencia Island, Co. Kerry, were additionally awarded £1 each. The fishing boats swamped were the Aughlass and Skelligs from Tralee.