Medal of Bravery

• Awarded on: September 24, 1984
• Invested on: March 15, 1985

The gallant effort of a Korean War veteran, Joseph Swann saved a motorist from a fiery death on the afternoon of 11 September 1983. After the driver had lost control of his vehicle, it bounced off a car parked in front of a convenience store, then hit another a short distance away. The two cars burst into flames and the semi-conscious man, pinned behind the wheel, could not save himself. Many bystanders were gathered in small groups but Mr. Swann alone forced open the car door. Although well aware of the danger of an explosion, he reached inside and through intense heat and smoke released the safety belt and freed the driver. While carrying him, Mr. Swann fell and aggravated the injuries he sustained during war service.