Gillian Tanner, a courageous firefighter during the Blitz, joined the Auxiliary Fire Service at 19. She risked her life supplying fire engines amidst bombings, earning the George Medal for gallantry. Her legacy is celebrated with a fireboat named after her in 2022 and a leadership program named in her honor since 2021. Family members visited the boat, reflecting on her remarkable contributions. Tanner's adventurous spirit continued post-war with activities like car racing and horse training, showcasing her determination and passion for thrilling endeavors.
"During the most difficult times during the war, she was out supplying our fire engine so it could respond to London throughout the war, to make sure that we were able to keep those people safe and respond as much as we can."
"I didn't realise the connection and the value people put on her and what she'd done until today," her granddaughter Mandy Jones said.
"Her acts of bravery are testament and stand true as some of the values we hold dear today."
Ms Tanner was into "anything with speed and a bit of danger attached," her granddaughter told BBC London.
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