A life saved?

FS Mathew Stewart (who was until recently the Flight Sergeant within Supply Control & Accounting Flight, Logistics Squadron) has been awarded a Certificate of Commendation by the Royal Humane Society.

This award recognises his moral courage demonstrated by saving a life whilst offduty on 2 March 2023.

Whilst driving over Wallingford bridge he noticed an individual had tethered themselves to a weight standing on the wall facing the water below. He instinctively realised something was wrong, and so he pulled over and put on his hazard lights. He acted decisively and started a conversation with the person, asking if they were alright or needed help. His empathy paid off and this person began to confide in him. He kept the person talking for 25 minutes.

During this time, he managed to stop a passer-by and told them to ring the emergency services. The police arrived shortly afterwards along with the social services who had been searching for the individual for the past three days. The police took over and helped the individual down off the bridge wall.

His actions were reported to the Royal Humane Society. The Royal Humane Society was founded in 1774 and is a charity that grants awards for acts of bravery in the saving of human life and also for the restoration of life by resuscitation.

FS Stewart was notified of his award in person by AVM Alastair Smith – Commander JHC when visiting RAF Benson on 28 April. Coincidentally, 28 April was FS Stewart’s last day at RAF Benson. He leaves Benson but remains part of JHC, posted to Tactical Supply Wing at MOD Stafford.