Summary
Grace O'Malley-Kumar will receive the George Medal for trying to protect her friend Barnaby Webber during an attack in Nottingham, UK, on June 13, 2023, where both were fatally stabbed. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer praised her heroism, and the medal will be awarded posthumously at Buckingham Palace.
Key Facts
- Grace O'Malley-Kumar attempted to defend her friend Barnaby Webber during a stabbing attack.
- Both individuals were fatally stabbed by Valdo Calocane, a paranoid schizophrenic, in June 2023.
- The George Medal is Britain's second-highest civilian bravery award and is given for courage exhibited not in combat.
- Grace is one of 20 recipients of the civilian gallantry awards, and one of four awarded the George Medal posthumously.
- Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called her actions a powerful example of heroism.
- Valdo Calocane was sentenced to a hospital order after admitting to three counts of manslaughter and three counts of attempted murder.
- The attack also resulted in the death of Ian Coates and injuries to three pedestrians hit by Ian Coates's van.
- The medal will be presented at Buckingham Palace to a relative since Grace is deceased.
