b. ? d. ?
DATE OF EM ACTION: 21/05/1918 Glencraig Colliery, near Lochgelly, Fife.
Very little is known about fireman James Simpson, who was awarded the Edward Medal in Silver for his actions at Glencraig Colliery, near Lochgelly, Fife, Scotland on 21st May 1918.
EM CITATION:
On the 21st May, 1918, a repairer, whilst engaged with two other workmen in carrying out repairs, was killed by a fall of roof. The two workmen were both caught and held by the fall. Simpson, who, arrived half an hour later, found the men imprisoned and realised that if he went for help they would be suffocated before it could arrive. He immediately set to work unaided and worked for three hours without relaxation, though exposed to danger from the falling roof. At last he succeeded in releasing one of the men. Simpson was then so exhausted that he could not release the second man; but he protected him with timber before going for help. Had it not been for Simpson’s presence of mind and devotion the two men would have lost their lives.
BURIAL LOCATION: UNKNOWN.
LOCATION OF MEDAL: UNKNOWN.
