Paul Anderson Henry GM

Paul, from Berwick-Upon-Tweed, Northumberland died on 8th June 1982 upon the Sir Galahad when it was bombed in Fitzroy Sound.

He was posthumously awarded the George Medal for his actions.  His citation reads as follows: 

 MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

HONOURS AND AWARDS

NAVY DEPARTMENT

MONDAY, 11th OCTOBER 1982

The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the Posthumous award of the George Medal to the undermentioned in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during the operations in the South Atlantic:

Second Engineer Officer Paul Anderson Henry, Royal Fleet Auxiliary

On 8th June 1982, after RFA Sir Galahad had been bombed by Argentine aircraft during troop disembarkation in Fitzroy Creek, the Engine Room compartments quickly filled with thick black smoke. Second Engineer Officer Henry and Third Engineer Officer Hailwood were present in the Main Control Room. A junior Engineer Officer was at the after end of the Engine Room and had to fight his way back through thick smoke to the Main Control Room area.

Second Engineer Officer Henry then told the Junior Engineer Officer to take the breathing apparatus and set and get out of the Engine Room when they would follow. By this unselfish and courageous act, he saved the Junior Officer’s life, at the same time sacrificing his own. The Junior Officer managed to reach safety, but both Second Engineer Officer Henry and Third Engineer Officer Hailwood perished.

Second Engineer Officer Henry’s act will stand proudly in the annals of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary Service.

Family and friends are encouraged to contribute.

We will add information to this memorial as we receive it.

If you have a photo, an anecdote, or simply to say you remember him, we will be very pleased to hear from you, so please contact the sama office at [email protected]