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King’s Commendation for Bravery Honours Three 2021 Rescuers, Two Posthumous

The honours recognise civilians who risked their lives to save others in separate London and Dorset water emergencies.

Overview

  • The government published the January 2026 Civilian Gallantry List confirming King’s Commendations for Bravery for Folajimi Olubunmi-Adewole (posthumous), Joaquin Garcia and Callum Baker-Osborne (posthumous).
  • Olubunmi-Adewole and Garcia entered the Thames near London Bridge in April 2021 to help a struggling woman, who was later rescued along with Garcia by the RNLI and the Metropolitan Police Marine Unit.
  • Olubunmi-Adewole, 20, died during the attempt, and an assistant coroner later ruled his death accidental and praised his courage and determination.
  • Baker-Osborne, 18, entered dangerous currents at Poole in July 2021 to save relatives, drowned during the rescue, and was found four days later at Lake Pier about a mile from where he entered the water.
  • Garcia said the honour brings him peace and officials including Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy praised the recipients, with posthumous awards to be presented to next of kin.