Civilian Gallantry List Released: Jan 2026
This lists the names of people who have received The King’s Commendation for Bravery.
KING’S COMMENDATION FOR BRAVERYFolajimi Olubunmi-Adewole (posthumous) and Joaquin Garcia, for rescuing a woman from drowning in the River Thames on 24 April 2021.
In the early hours of Saturday 24th April 2021, Folajimi Olubunmi-Adewole and Joaquin Garcia, unknown to each other, were walking by the River Thames when they noticed a woman struggling in the water. Due to darkness, they could not locate her, but Mr Olubunmi-Adewole called emergency services to seek assistance. Both men then followed her cries for help and ran across the bridge to where they could finally see the woman struggling to stay afloat. They both then made the decision to enter the cold, dark, and fast-moving water to try to save her until help could arrive.
The Royal National Lifeboat Association and the Metropolitan Police Service Marine Unit arrived in time to rescue the woman and Mr Garcia, however Mr Olubunmi-Adewole tragically lost his life during this incident. His final actions, as well as the actions of Mr Garcia, demonstrated courage and a commendable determination to help others.
Callum Baker-Osborne (posthumous), for an attempt to rescue multiple people from drowning at sea in Dorset on 26 July 2021.
On Monday 26 July 2021, whilst on holiday with his family at Haven Holidays Rockley Park in Poole, Dorset, 18-year-old Callum Baker-Osborne demonstrated exceptional selflessness and courage in the face of life-threatening danger.
During a period of intense tide and strong rip currents in the area, several members of his family became distressed and were in danger of drowning. Recognising the peril posed by the hazardous waters, Mr Baker-Osborne entered the water to assist his family members, prioritising their safety above his own.
Witnesses saw Mr Baker-Osborne enter the water and try to rescue members of his family, including a young child and his mother, from drowning. A family member also attempting rescue, described Mr Baker-Osborne struggling against the current and feeling a tug on his leg before Mr Baker-Osborne was pulled under the water. After other members of the public came to assist to pull numerous people from the water, everyone was accounted for apart from Mr Baker-Osborne. Despite an extensive search, he was lost in the treacherous conditions and his body was recovered days later.
Mr Baker-Osborne’s actions exemplify extraordinary heroism, selflessness, and composure in an extremely dangerous situation. His willingness to risk and ultimately sacrifice his life to save others reflects his bravery and resolve.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/civilian-gallantry-list-january-2026
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