André Gilbert Kempster

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André Gilbert Kempster GC (né Coccioletti)(October 26, 1916 - August 21, 1943) was awarded the George Cross posthumously for an act of gallantry in Algeria during the Second World War described officially as follows:

“On August 21, 1943, near Philippeville [Skikda], Major Kempster was carrying out grenade throwing practice with two others in the same pit. A grenade which was thrown by Major Kempster rolled back into the pit. Major Kempster attempted to scoop the grenade out of the pit but failed to do so. By this time detonation was due. Without hesitation Major Kempster threw himself on the grenade just before it exploded and received fatal injuries. By his self-sacrifice, Major Kempster undoubtedly saved the lives of the two other occupants of the pit. Major Kempster’s act meant certain death, and he must have known this at the time. His was a supreme act of gallantry.” (The Times, November 10, 1943, p. 4)

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