Orders, Decorations and Medals

A St John Life Saving pair awarded to Private T. Moonan, Dublin Division, Irish Free State District, St John Ambulance Brigade, for gallantry during street fighting in Dublin in June and July 1922

Order of St John Lifesaving Medal, bronze (Presented to Pte. Thomas Moonan. 1922); St John Service Medal, silver, with additional service bar (13017 Pte. T. Moonan, Dublin (W & R Jacob) Div. I.F.S. Dis. S.J.A.B. 1934) both contained in their original presentation cases, extremely fine and rare (2) £600-800

St John Medal for Bravery approved by Chapter General, 17 November 1922: ‘For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty while working in advanced First Aid posts during the Street fighting in Dublin from 28th June to 8th July, 1922, when numerous casualties were inflicted not only on combatants, but also the civil population. During the period mentioned they were constantly exposed to machine gun and rifle fire and the risk of unexploded mines and falling burning buildings but fortunately only two members of the Brigade were wounded. In addition to dealing with numerous casualties caused by bullets there were many cases of burning, premature births and removals to the Maternity Hospital, many poor people in Streets adjoining the fighting were starving until assisted by members of the Brigade.’

28th June - 9th July. These months represent the culminating period in the state of war in Ireland when for 10 days there was fierce fighting. In Dublin and some country districts, 180 members of No. XII (Irish) District of the Brigade took duty and rendered assistance to 250 wounded civilians and combatants. During ambushes in crowded streets of Dublin by day and night members exhibited the utmost gallantry. For these gallant deeds The Order of St John later awarded 1 Solver and 6 Bronze Medals, together with 7 Certificates of Honour.