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Heroine Grace O'Malley-Kumar Awarded George Medal Posthumously

10/7/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Grace O'Malley-Kumar was posthumously awarded the George Medal for intervening in a Nottingham knife attack in June 2023 to shield Barnaby Webber from Valdo Calocane.
Calocane also killed school caretaker Ian Coates. Grace fought him for 30 seconds, suffering 23 stab wounds.
A public inquiry into the attack found failures in Calocane's mental health care.

History

Historical Context

Established in 1940, the George Medal honors civilian bravery during wartime, succeeding the Empire Gallantry Medal. Notable recipients include Grace O'Malley-Kumar, who sustained 23 stab wounds while intervening in a violent attack. This incident underscores ongoing mental health care issues, highlighted by inquiries into Valdo Calocane's treatment, emphasizing the urgent need for improved mental health systems to safeguard communities.

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Story summary

Grace O'Malley-Kumar was posthumously awarded the George Medal for intervening in a Nottingham knife attack in June 2023 to shield Barnaby Webber from Valdo Calocane.
Calocane also killed school caretaker Ian Coates. Grace fought him for 30 seconds, suffering 23 stab wounds.
A public inquiry into the attack found failures in Calocane's mental health care.

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