In an emotional ceremony that brought tears to the eyes of many, Barnaby Webber has been posthumously awarded the George Medal for his extraordinary bravery during the Nottingham knife attacks that shocked the nation. The 19-year-old university student sacrificed his own life while attempting to protect his friend from a vicious assailant.
A Night of Terror in Nottingham
The tragic events unfolded in the early hours of June 13, 2023, when Valdo Calocane launched a brutal attack on Barnaby Webber and Grace O'Malley-Kumar as they walked home from a night out. According to official accounts, when Calocane began assaulting Grace, Barnaby immediately intervened, putting himself in harm's way to shield his friend from the attacker.
"He stood between Grace and pure evil," a family representative stated during the ceremony. "Barnaby's instinct was to protect his friend, even when faced with unimaginable danger."
The Highest Honour for Civilian Bravery
The George Medal, second only to the George Cross for civilian gallantry, recognises acts of great bravery. In awarding Barnaby this prestigious honour, the citation highlighted his "selfless and courageous actions" in the face of mortal danger.
Grace O'Malley-Kumar, a medical student described as having a "bright future ahead of her," was also recognised for her own bravery during the attack. Both students have been remembered as exceptional young people whose lives were brutally cut short.
A Community United in Grief and Pride
The posthumous award has brought some comfort to the devastated families, who have shown remarkable dignity throughout the ordeal. Barnaby's mother, Emma Webber, described her son as "the kind of person who would always put others first," a quality tragically demonstrated in his final moments.
The University of Nottingham, where both students were in their first year, has established permanent memorials to honour their memories. Fellow students and staff have spoken of the profound impact both young people made during their short time at the university.
As Nottingham continues to heal from the trauma of that fateful night, Barnaby Webber's story stands as a powerful testament to human courage and self-sacrifice - a bright light in the darkness of tragedy.
