Late officer awarded Elizabeth Emblem for 'extraordinary courage' during 1965 Isle of Man fire
Henry Bertram Kenna entered a smoke-filled building alone to search for people, after receiving a call to a commercial building on 22 November 1965.
Tragically, he later emerged from the building and collapsed.
Fellow firefighters administered first aid and attempted resuscitation and sadly were unable to revive him.
His family will receive the award in his honour, presented by Lieutenant Governor Sir John Lorimer.
The award recognises emergency service personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty.
It is the civilian equivalent of the Elizabeth Cross, which recognises members of the UK Armed Forces who have died in action or as a result of a terrorist attack.
It's the first time an Isle of Man recipient has received the prestigious accolade.
At the time of the incident, the main fire appliance in Douglas was already attending a separate fire at Kewaigue tip. On receiving the call to a fire at Express Radio in Athol Street, Station Officer Kenna - known to colleagues as Bert - responded on foot from John Street Station.
Sir John Lorimer will release further details in due course, including arrangements for the formal presentation of the Elizabeth Emblem.
Sir John said: 'Station Officer Kenna's selfless actions and ultimate sacrifice exemplify the very best of public service. This long-overdue recognition honours not only his bravery, but the enduring contribution of our Island's emergency services.'
Chief Fire Officer, Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service, Mark Christian said: 'The actions of Station Officer Kenna on that fateful day were nothing short of heroic. Bert showed no hesitation in entering the building to try and help others and, tragically, made the ultimate sacrifice. We are immensely proud to see Station Officer Kenna and his family recognised for his bravery and selflessness.'
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