John H. Leslie joined the City of Glasgow Police in May 1948 and was posted to the ‘D’ (Southern) Division.
On 10 April 1954, he was on patrol near Carlton Place, Glasgow, when he was informed that a man was in difficulties in the River Clyde near the suspension bridge. He went to the scene and saw the man struggling to stay afloat. Despite the extremely difficult conditions prevailing at the time, he entered the river and was successful in pulling the man to safety. The man recovered from his life threatening experience.
In recognition of his heroic action, Constable Leslie was awarded the Queen’s commendation for Brave Conduct and the Glasgow Corporation Medal for Bravery.