I’ve talked a lot about General Slocum and the disaster that occurred June 15, 1904 when she caught fire and sank. Many people became heroes that day, risking their own lives to try and rescue the passengers and crew. Although the loss of life was high (well over 1000), it could have been much higher had people not reacted so quickly. Most of these heroes are not remembered by history, but a few of them received honors and medals for their efforts. Several of these were recently brought to our attention by Lt. Sere, who owns three such medals.

After doing a bit of searching on Captain Stephen McDermott I was able to find a news article about the presentation of the medal to him and two others.

The other three medals were presented by the New York State Volunteer Life Saving Corps to John Lynch, Charles L. Albertson, and E.J. McCaan for their lifesaving efforts in the Slocum disaster.

A kind thank you to Lt. Sere for sharing these beautiful medals with us. And a huge thank you to everyone who risks their life to save others, they are who make this world amazing!