MAHER, John Daniel

Rank: 
Lance Corporal
Unit / Base: 
59 Independent Commando Sqn. RE
Regiment/Corps: 
Royal Engineers
Service: 
Army
Number: 
24462159
Honours & Awards: 
Lance Corporal John Maher received a Mention in Despatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during the Falklands War [1].
Recommendation
"On 8 June 1982 Lance Corporal Maher with one other Royal Engineer was part of a patrol from 42 Commando Royal Marines tasked with finding routes around and through enemy minefields prior to the assault on Mount Harriet. Lance Corporal Maher cleared areas of anti personnel mines in the path of the patrol and established safe routes. This was carried out without any regard for his own safety as they were in an extremely exposed position and often under direct and indirect enemy fire.
On 13 June 1982 a despatch rider of the Welsh Guards was blown up on an anti personnel mine. With no regard for personal safety and without orders Lance Corporal Maher and another Royal Engineer entered the minefield, south of Mount Harriet, and gave first aid to the injured soldier before breaching a way out of the minefield for his evacuation. This prompt and courageous action saved the life of a seriously injured man.
Lance Corporal Maher showed outsanding bravery and coolness of mind in both of these two separate actions putting the lives of others before his own personal safety. He is strongly recommended for the Military Medal." 
[Recommended for the MM, received a Mention in Despatches.] [2].
 
Sources
[1] London Gazette 49134, page 12852.
[2] National Archives file WO373/188/315.
Globe and Laurel Sept/Oct. 1982 edition.
 

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