‍Charles Herman Green was born on 23.05.1886 at Southwark, London, and whilst working with the St. John’s Ambulance Service, he was to become the first St. John’s Air Ambulance Attendant during 1924.

‍During WW2 he worked as an ambulance driver throughout 'The Blitz' at the Southwark/Bermondsey areas of London- 1939 Census refers.
Between the 7th of October 1940 and the 6th of June 1941, the Luftwaffe dropped 1651 bombs and 20 parachute mines on the Southwark/Bermondsey area, killing in excess of 300 people. Charles and his colleagues then later had to contend with the V1 and V2 rocket attacks.

‍Post war, Charles continued serving with the St. John’s Ambulance Service and was made a Serving Brother during 1942 - London Gazette 2 January 1942 refers, an Officer’s (Serving Brother) during 1960 - London Gazette 2nd August 1960 refers, and Commander (Brother) during 1965 - London Gazette 12 January 1965 refers.

‍Charles was later awarded the British Empire Medal for his services with St. John's Ambulance Service, and the citation for his award was read by Mr John Cowan, Secretary of the Order of St. John and published by Greater London County, it states:

'Charles Green was employed as an Ambulance Attendant at St John's Gate Chancery of the Order of St. John from 1921 until the establishment of the National Health Service. He well remembers the first motorised ambulance being introduced into service. He was also the very first St. John Air Ambulance Attendant.

Following the introduction of the National Health Service he was employed in the Stores Department of the Order of St. John until his retirement in 1966.

Mr Green first became involved with the Order's ceremonial staff when Investitures re-started after the War at St. Bartholomew's Hospital in 1948, helping with support duties such as the robing of Chapter-General.' After his retirement, however, he took a much more prominent part in ceremonial duties, especially in the carrying of banners in public processions and in verging duty. He still continues to give his fullest support and loyalty to the Order’s ceremonial staff, even though now, well into his eighties.

‍He is outstandingly consistent, reliable and undertakes everything he is asked to do with an enthusiasm and professionalism which is an example to everyone else connected with the Order’s ceremonial affairs.

‍Mr Green’s long and outstanding service to the Order of St John is now marked by the award of the British Empire Medal.’

B.E.M. London Gazette 1 January 1984.

‍Charles Herman Green passed away on the 23rd of May 1986, at Southwark, London.

‍All of his medals/awards are confirmed (copies of the London Gazette and copied research confirm).

The medals are sold with copied research, original Commander’s & BEM boxes of issue, original citation, two black and white photographs of Charles Herman Green, and are as follows -

‍British Empire Medal, G.VI.R., Civil Division, CHARLES HERMAN GREEN, in its Royal Mint case of issue; The Most Venerable Order of St John of Jerusalem, Commander (Brother) Neck Badge, silver and enamel, in its case of issue; Defence Medal 1939-45; Service Medal of the Order of St John, with two silver Additional Service clasps and one gold Additional Service clasp, AIR ATTD. C. H. GREEN LONDON S.J.A.B., unofficially engraved naming, sold together with a collection of Order of St. John badges, cufflinks and buttons.

Condition, minor contact wear to fourth, overall very fine

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