Kenneth Smith GC (1921-1945)
HUMBY hero Kenneth Smith was awarded the George Cross for his actions during the Second World War. Unfortunately, it was posthumous.
He saved many lives, civilian and comrades, when he dashed into a house and carried out an active German timebomb which exploded in his hands.
Born and resident at Great Humby, his father had died two years early from the effects of gas during the First World War.
A member of the Royal Corps of Signals, he was attached to the Long Range Desert Group, a clandestine organisation on a par with the SAS.
He was on patrol on an island in the Adriatic, when they entered a room in a house packed with partisans and children.
He spotted the ticking bomb on a table, picked it up and ran outside. Ken, a Dunkirk veteran, had only gone a few yards when it exploded.
His widowed mother received a letter from King George VI expressing their sympathies.
The citation of the cross said: “In recognition of most conspicuous gallantry in carrying out hazardous work in a very brave manner.” His George Cross and other medals are now in the museum of the Royal Signals museum.
Compiled with help from Macolm Baxter
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