An Garda Síochána and the Scott Medal

Gerard O'Brien

‘The book’s lengthy introduction skilfully describes the interaction between each successive Garda Commissioner and Ministers for Justice in negotiating finance for the medal awards in changing times … This volume glitters in that it rightfully shines a long overdue light on each Scott Medal award winner, including posthumous and double awards and in each case includes the recipient’s name, rank and Garda registered number; date and place of birth; citation; medal award category; subsequent service and promotions; medal presentation date and place; total service in years in years and days in the case of retired recipients and the date of death of deceased recipients … Walter Scott would no doubt proud of this book and its documented legacy of bravery, heroism by members of An Garda Siochana, paid for in some instances by the supreme sacrifice’, Jim Herlihy, IPA Journal (October 2008).

‘O’Brien describes the origins and history of the Scott Medal, the bravery award for members of an Garda Síochána. The award was established in 1923 by Walter Scott, a wealthy Irish American who was impressed by the police force of the new Irish state … Bearing in mind that the Garda is a mostly unarmed body, it is remarkable that so many of the medals were awarded for tackling armed criminals. This is a well written and informative book which reminds us of the kinds of dangers that gardaí face every day’, Books Ireland (October 2008).

'The "Walter Scott Medal for Valour" has been in existence for almost as long as the Garda Síochána itself, yet very little is generally known about it, or about the deeds for which it was awarded … Each incident for which a medal is awarded is treated in the same format [in this book]. Details are given of the Garda’s background. The deed itself is described, followed by a brief account of the Garda’s subsequent career. All the incidents required great bravery from those involved … The author is to be highly commended for his work in making known the deeds that gave rise to each award … the book is to be greatly welcomed for its account of the brave deeds performed by members of An Garda Síochána on behalf of the public. The work demonstrates that, in one respect at least, the early traditions of the force are being maintained', P. Mulready, The Irish Sword (Winter 2009).