Queen's Commendation for Bravery for Whitby Man

Wednesday, 22 March 2023 12:43

By Matthew Pells

Andy Lax has received the Queen's commendation for bravery after pulling a man out of a burning car following a head on crash.

On 11 May 2019, Andrew Lax was driving along in North Yorkshire. An oncoming vehicle was heading towards Mr Lax, on the wrong side of the road. The road had a slight bend which resulted in a head-on collision.

On impact, Mr Lax was left dazed and shocked but managed to exit his vehicle. Without hesitation, he approached the other vehicle which was already alight.

He pulled the motorist out of the vehicle through the side window, as the impact of the crash had damaged the door which stopped it from opening. Mr Lax then dragged the motorist to a safe distance shortly before both cars went up in flames. Both cars were destroyed.

If it were not for Mr Lax’s swift actions, the other motorist - who could not attempt to get out of his own burning vehicle due to his injuries - would have lost his life.

Andy was named in the 2023 Civilian Gallantry List and presented with the Queen's commendation for bravery at a ceremony at Downing Street.

Colleagues at RAF Fylingdales have congratulated Andy on the award.

Huge congratulations to our colleague Andy Lax who recently received the Queens commendation for bravery for pulling a man out of a burning car after a head on crash. Andy was invited to visit number 10 as part of his award. #teamfylingdales @UKSpaceCmd @cabinetofficeuk pic.twitter.com/H521bfxvCu
— RAF Fylingdales (@RAFFylingdales) March 22, 2023