Nuclear Test Medal

DECADES after his passing in 1987, A Leigh World War II Serviceman has been posthumously honoured with a Nuclear Test Medal, commemorating his remarkable contributions.

The initiative to obtain this accolade for John Herbert was spearheaded by his son Ray and three daughters Jill, Mary, and Janet.

Mr Herbert’s journey in service began on his 18th birthday in September 1940, amid the intense Battle of Britain.

Captured outside his residence in Bailey Road, Leigh, the photograph reflects a poignant moment from his early days as a pilot.

It is said that during one of his flights, he daringly performed aerobatics over his future wife’s home, leaving an indelible mark on their story.

Following the war, Mr Herbert pursued higher education, earning a degree in Physics.

He subsequently embarked on a career as a Scientist at AWRE Foulness Island.

His commitment to scientific exploration led him to participate in the 1952 Nuclear test in the Montebello Islands and the 1956 Test at Maralinga.

These endeavours often necessitated venturing into blast areas post-explosion to retrieve crucial measuring instruments, exposing him and his colleagues to hazardous levels of radiation.

Despite the risks involved, Mr Herbert never voiced any complaints, his family explain.

His dedication and resilience were emblematic of a generation that stoically faced challenges in the pursuit of progress.

Adorned with an atom symbolising scientific exploration and adorned with olive branches, the medal serves as a tribute to a man whose contributions resonated far beyond his lifetime.

Read more.

Visit: https://leigh-on-sea.news

Contact us. Email: [email protected]

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leighonsea.news

Twitter: @leighonsea_news

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leighonsea.news