Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Pressureman

Unit:

Liverpool Gas Company

Awarded on:

December 16th, 1941

Mercer worked alongside James Hayes (BEM) during an air raid, when a large gas holder received a direct hit, and the gas immediately caught fire.

"Mercer, who was about thirty-five yards away, received a severe shock: With utter disregard for his own safety and-in the face of terrific heat from the flames, he forced his way into the Valve House, only fifteen feet from the blazing holder. With great presence of mind, he closed and opened valves, thus isolating the damaged holder. By directing jets of water on the fire and beating the flames down, Hayes prevented the flames setting fire to plant nearby. The courage and promptitude with which Mercer and Hayes dealt with the situation saved much valuable property from destruction."