THE crew of the Walmer life-boat went to London on Thursday, 27th of November, to receive the medals awarded to them by the French life-boat society, La societe centrale de sauvetage des naufrages for the rescue on the 13th of January, 1952, of the crew of 38 of the French steamer Agen, wrecked on the Goodwin Sands.

Silver-gilt medals were awarded to Coxswain Frederick Upton, Second Coxswain W. Bailey and the motor mechanic, C. Percy Cavell, silver medals to the other six members of the crew, and a diploma to be hung in the boathouse. The medals had the head of a life-boatman and the name of the French life-boat society inscribed on the obverse, and on the reverse the name of the re- cipient and the words "Courage— Devotion." The crew were accompanied by members of their families, the Mayor and Mayoress of Deal, Mr. L. H.

Shelvey, honorary secretary of the station, and the French Consul at Folkestone. The Institution itself was represented by Captain the Lord Ailwyn, R.N., a member of the com- mittee of management, Colonel A. D.

Burnett Brown, the secretary, and Commander T. G. Michelmore, R.N.R., chief inspector of life-boats.

The guests were received by the French Ambassador, M. Rene Massigli, members of the Embassy staff and French naval officers. The Ambassa- dor made a short speech, describing the service and thanking the crew.

He then presented the medals and diploma and Lord Ailwyn replied on behalf of the Institution.

After the presentation refreshments were served and the Ambassador talked to the crew and their families and was photographed with all the ladies of the party..