The Scannell Medal Fund was the bequest of David Scannell, a former Chief of Department, and was established to honor a member of the Fire Department who was most meritorious in the performance of his or her duty and for the bravest act performed in the saving of human life at the risk of his or her life.

The following members of the San Francisco Fire Department have been awarded the Scannell Medal since 1964:

Captain Benton was posthumously awarded the Scannell Medal for heroic actions which cost him his life in the line of duty.

The Trustees of the Scannell Medal Fund have now awarded the medal to Firefighter Gerald R. Shannon of Truck Co. 9 for his heroic actions following the earthquake of October 17, 1989.

In his official report, Lieutenant Vincent J. Nolan wrote, "Firefighter Shannon's heroic disregard for his own well-being in order to courageously save another's life was well above and beyond the call of duty."

"These actions are truly worthy of merit in the highest tradition of the City of San Francisco and the San Francisco Fire Department."