Michael Floud Blaney, GC (14 November 1910 – 13 December 1940), known as Max Blaney,[1] was posthumously awarded the George Cross for defusing enemy bombs during the Blitz in 1940.[2]
Michael Floud Blaney | |
|---|---|
| Nickname(s) | Max |
| Born | 14 November 1910 Newry, Ireland |
| Died | 13 December 1940 (aged 30) Manor Park, Essex, England |
| Buried | Newry Old Chapel Roman Catholic Cemetery, Newry |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service | British Army |
| Years of service | 1939–1940 |
| Rank | Captain |
| Service number | 119978 |
| Unit | Corps of Royal Engineers |
| Battles / wars | Second World War |
| Awards | George Cross |
Second World War
editBlaney, a member of the Corps of Royal Engineers, dismantled several bombs on 18 September, 20 October and 13 December 1940. During the last incident he was killed, aged 30, when the bomb he was defusing exploded in Manor Park, Essex.[3]
George Cross citation
editNotice of Blaney's George Cross appeared in the London Gazette on 15 April 1941:[4]
The King has been graciously pleased to approve the award of the George Cross, for most conspicuous gallantry in carrying out hazardous work in a very brave manner.
In December 2013 an Ulster History Circle blue plaque was unveiled in his memory in Newry.
Footnotes
edit- ^ Michael Ashcroft, George Cross Heroes, 2010
- ^ World War II Awards Michael Floud Blaney
- ^ Find A Grave
- ^ London Gazette 15 April 1941
Further reading
edit- Owen, James (2010). Danger UXB. Little, Brown. ISBN 978-1-4087-0255-0.