Irish first-aider receives Order of Malta award for heroic actions during London terror attack

The Order of Malta Ireland has announced that Mrs Joanne Saunsbury (née Crofton) has been awarded the prestigious Cross of the Order pro Merito Melitensi. The unique honour was bestowed upon her by Archbishop Eamon Martin, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, on behalf of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta during a solemn ceremony at St Mary's Church, Haddington Road, Dublin.

The Order formally recognised that Mrs Saunsbury, a native of Wexford who demonstrated extraordinary courage and selflessness during the tragic events of March 22, 2017. While working on a tour bus crossing Westminster Bridge in London, she witnessed the onset of a terrorist attack that claimed the lives of five individuals including unarmed police officer Keith Palmer who was guarding the entrance to the Palace of Westminster and injured over 50 others.

She rushed to the aid of a critically injured man lying unconscious on the ground. Drawing upon her training with the Order of Malta in Wexford, she administered CPR and worked tirelessly to resuscitate him. "I was trying to get him to breathe and to get his heart beating," she said. "Where there's life, there's hope."

Her quick thinking and bravery not only provided immediate life saving assistance but also embodied the core values of the Order of Malta-upholding human dignity and offering compassionate care in times of crisis.

Patrick Downes KM praised Mrs Saunsbury after the ceremony, stating: "Joanne's selfless actions in the face of imminent danger are a testament to her character and reflect the core principles of our Order. She is a shining example of courage and compassion, and we are honoured to recognise her today."

The Cross of the Order pro Merito Melitensi is one of the highest honours granted by Decree of the Sovereign Council of the Order of Malta, awarded to individuals who have displayed exceptional merit.

As we commemorate the 850th anniversary of establishing our first priory in Ireland at Kilmainham-now the site of the Royal Hospital-the Order of Malta continues a proud legacy of service that spans centuries. We are one of the world's oldest medical charities and have over 60 active units across the island of Ireland, staffed by thousands of highly trained volunteers dedicated to serving their communities.

Our volunteers provide a wide range of essential services, including first aid training, emergency medical support, and community care initiatives. Their commitment reflects the enduring mission of the Order: to uphold human dignity and provide compassionate assistance to the poor and the sick.

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Order of Malta Ireland: https://orderofmaltaireland.org/