The family of a woman who bravely served as a firefighter during the Blitz has recently boarded a London fire boat that honors her legacy.

Gillian Tanner, affectionately known as Bobby to her friends and family, joined the Auxiliary Fire Service at just 19 years old, stepping up to support fire engines as bombs fell over London.

Her courageous actions were recognized with the prestigious George Medal, a significant accolade awarded for civilian bravery.

According to her granddaughter, Ms. Tanner loved “anything that involved speed and a hint of danger,” as she shared with BBC London.

In addition to the fire boat named after her in 2022, a leadership training program within the London Fire Brigade has also carried her name since 2021.

Throughout World War II, numerous women contributed to various support roles on the home front.

Ms. Tanner’s responsibility involved transporting fuel through the perilous streets to ensure fire crews could battle the fires during one of the most severe bombing campaigns in London’s history.

Patrick Goulbourne, the deputy commissioner of the London Fire Brigade, remarked, “During the war’s toughest moments, she was out there delivering fuel to our fire engines so they could operate throughout the conflict, helping to protect citizens as much as possible.”

“Her acts of courage exemplify the values we cherish today.”

Her family members visited the boat to reflect on her remarkable legacy as they approach Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) next month.

“I had no idea of the impact she had and how highly people regard her achievements until today,” her granddaughter Mandy Jones said.

She described her grandmother as a “determined and strong-willed” individual who would “get things done” whenever necessary.

After the war, Ms. Tanner continued to seek exhilarating experiences, such as racing cars in Monte Carlo and training racehorses.