George cross recipient. On the 4th January 1937, Robert was working in Selukwe when there was an accident in the Tebekwe Mine. Howard Sheasby was trapped underground by a fall of rock ans was completely buried. Dr Saunders arrived on the scene at 3.30pm, by which time a rescue party had succeeded in recovering most of the spillage from around Sheasby's body. It was found, however, that his left hand was trapped and he remained there until 12.30pm the next day. During this time, Dr Saunders remained underground rendering medical assistance under very difficult circumstances. After 16 hours, he had to make the decision to amputate Sheasby's arm, and he had to carry out the operation by telling a left handed volunteer how to perform it, as it was impossible for a right hander to do it. Sheasby went on to make a full recovery. Robert was awarded the Edward Medal in Bronze on 8th October 1937, and was presented with his medal on 13th January 1938, when the Governor of Southern Rhodesia, Sir Herbert Stanley, GCMG, travelled to Selukwe. Following the award, Robert continued to work as the local doctor in Selukwe, owned shares in two local mines, and was Chairman of the local School Council. The sports pavilion at Selukwe School is named The Doc Saunders Pavilion in his honour.
George cross recipient. On the 4th January 1937, Robert was working in Selukwe when there was an accident in the Tebekwe Mine. Howard Sheasby was trapped underground by a fall of rock ans was completely buried. Dr Saunders arrived on the scene at 3.30pm, by which time a rescue party had succeeded in recovering most of the spillage from around Sheasby's body. It was found, however, that his left hand was trapped and he remained there until 12.30pm the next day. During this time, Dr Saunders remained underground rendering medical assistance under very difficult circumstances. After 16 hours, he had to make the decision to amputate Sheasby's arm, and he had to carry out the operation by telling a left handed volunteer how to perform it, as it was impossible for a right hander to do it. Sheasby went on to make a full recovery. Robert was awarded the Edward Medal in Bronze on 8th October 1937, and was presented with his medal on 13th January 1938, when the Governor of Southern Rhodesia, Sir Herbert Stanley, GCMG, travelled to Selukwe. Following the award, Robert continued to work as the local doctor in Selukwe, owned shares in two local mines, and was Chairman of the local School Council. The sports pavilion at Selukwe School is named The Doc Saunders Pavilion in his honour.
Bio by: Paul Barnett
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