Colour Sergeant Oswald Falconar was awarded the George Medal for his bravery in rescuing a commando from a burning aircraft at Luqa airfield Malta [1][2]. He had previously served in WW2 as Troop Sergeant Major 45RM Commando [3].

An aircraft, carrying part of 40 Commando, Royal Marines crashed in taking off at Luqa, Malta, on 17th May, 1953. The moment the aircraft came to rest, flames swept in through the open door and in a moment the aircraft was full of fire and smoke. Colour Sergeant Falconar was battling his way out when he heard a man cry out that he could not undo his safety belt. In this moment of terror, when seconds stood between life and death, Colour Sergeant Falconar went back and released the man's safety belt, thus undoubtedly saving his life. When both were clear of the aircraft, Colour Sergeant Falconar, in spite of his burnt hands, helped the man to tear off his burning clothing [1].

 

The plane was carrying twenty one commandos to the Suez Canal Zone [2].

Two commandos died as a result of this crash.

Marine Derek Burtenshaw.

Marine Ronald Don.