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Carnegie Hero Fund Commission medal posthumously issued to Patrick J. Smith, Jr., who died attempting to save another man from drowning in Strauss, Kansas, on July 6, 1943. The bronze-tone medal, 204 gm, 76 mm, features a high-relief portrait of Andrew Carnegie to the front with raised text to top and bottom: “Carnegie Hero Fund" and "Established April 15th 1904." The reverse bears the commission's motto, “Greater Love Hath No Man Lay Down His Life For His Friends,” surrounding an engraved presentation cartouche reading: “Awarded to Patrick J. Smith, Jr., who died attempting to save John E. Winslow from drowning, Strauss, Kan., July 6, 1943." Stamped on the edge by the manufacturer, “J. E. Caldwell & Co., Phila.” Includes its original black presentation case and its accompanying green paper box, both marked on the top, “Carnegie Medal.” In fine condition, with some tarnishing to medal, and wear to box.
Established by Andrew Carnegie in 1904 to recognize extraordinary acts of civilian heroism, the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission awarded this medal posthumously to Patrick J. Smith, Jr. (1916–1943), an assistant freight house foreman who sacrificed his life attempting to rescue 18-year-old John E. Winslow from the Neosho River at Strauss, Kansas, on July 6, 1943. After a motorboat carrying Smith, Winslow, and four other boys drifted over a dam and capsized in turbulent water, Smith repeatedly struggled to reach the imperiled Winslow, lifting him above the surface before both men ultimately drowned. In recognition of his selfless sacrifice, Smith was awarded the Carnegie Medal, one of America's highest civilian honors for heroism.
From the personal collection of a lifelong collector, teacher, and traveler with a passion for world history. His collecting years ranged from the 1970s to the present day, meaning that several of the premier pieces have not been on the market in decades.
