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World War 1 at Sea

 

ROYAL NAVY MEDALS - AWARDS of the CONSPICUOUS GALLANTRY MEDAL (CGM)
from the London Gazette in edition order


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Conspicuous Gallantry Medal with head of King George VI. *
*The World War 1 CGM had broader blue bands with head of King George V. CGM was Royal Navy's PO and Ratings equivalent of Army's DCM i.e. second to VC

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 Includes Royal Marines

 

 

1914

 

all Admiralty, London, S.W.

 

 

28948 - 20 OCTOBER 1914

 

BATTLE OF HELIGOLAND BIGHT

 

..... in recognition of services mentioned in the foregoing despatches (see Battle of Heligoland Bight, Naval Despatch dated 1 September 1914):

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Ernest Randall Cremer, Able Seaman, O.N. 214, 235.

 

 

 

 1915

 

all Admiralty, London, S.W.

 

 

29087 - 2 MARCH 1915

 

BATTLE OF THE FALKLANDS

 

The following awards have also been made (see Battle of the Falklands, Naval Despatch dated 19 December 1914):

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Portsmouth R.F.R.B./3307, Sergeant Charles Mayes, H.M.S. "Kent." A shell burst and ignited some cordite charges in the casemate; a flash of flame went down the hoist into the ammunition passage. Sergeant Mayes picked up a charge of cordite and threw it away. He then got hold of a fire hose and flooded the compartment, extinguishing the fire in some empty shell bags which were burning. The extinction of this fire saved a disaster which might have led to the loss of the ship.

 


 

 

29123 - 9 APRIL 1915

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal

For services at Dar es Salaam, 28th November, 1914:

Thomas James Clark, Petty Officer, 1st Class, O N 178489 (R F R , Dev , B /1535)

Thomas Arthur Gallagher, Leading Seaman, O N 222943.

 

Petty Officer Clark was Coxswain of H.M.S. "Goliath's" steam pinnace. He was wounded, but gallantly returned to the wheel to which he stood until the boat was out of gunfire.

 

Leading Seaman Gallagher was Coxswain of H.M.S. "Fox's" steam cutter. When twice wounded, and under galling fire, he remained at the tiller, and with the utmost coolness steered his boat through the danger zone.

 

For services in the Shatt el Arab, 3rd to 9th December, 1914:

Arthur Jones, Stoker Petty Officer, O N 227970. Petty Officer Jones, after being severely wounded, kept the engines of the launch “Miner'' going when water was pouring into the engine room, and undoubtedly by his action saved the "Miner" from disaster.

 


 

 

29180 - 1 JUNE 1915

 

The following Awards have also been made to men of the Royal Naval Division .....in recognition of their services with the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force (Gallipoli) (see Statements of Services):

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Chief Petty Officer Richard Farley Toy, Dev/ 189327, Howe Battalion.

Able Seaman George Henry Doe, K.P./61, Howe Battalion.

Private Charles J. Braddock, R.M.L.I., R.F.R/B/Ch.2013, Chatham Battalion.

Bugler Ernest Sillence, R.M.L.I., Ch/ 155715, Chatham Battalion.

 


 

 

29264 - 13 AUGUST 1915

 

GALLIPOLI CAMPAIGN - LANDINGS

 

..... (see Gallipoli Campaign - Landings, Naval Despatch dated 1 July 1915):

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Petty Officer Mechanic John Hepburn Russell, R.N. Air Service O.N. F.839.

Petty Officer Mechanic Geoffrey Charltort Paine Rumming, R.N. Air Service O.N. F.813.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Frederick Gibson, O.N. 191025 (R.F.R. B.3829).

Ordinary Seaman Jesse Lovelock, O.N. J28798.

________ 

The following awards have been made in recognition of services during the operations in the vicinity of the Dardanelles prior to 25th-26th April:

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

For services when H.M.S. "Inflexible" was damaged by a mine on 18th March: 

Chief Engine Room Artificer, 2nd Class, Robert Snowdon, O.N. 270654.

Stoker, 1st Class, Thomas Davidson, D.S.M., O.N. K14753.

Able Seaman Walter Samuel Smedley, O.N. J.13729.

Engine Room Artificer, 2nd Class, Joseph J. Fielding Runalls, O.N. 272059.

Chief Sick Berth Steward Henry A. Hamlin, O.N. 150438.

The services of Snowdon and Davidson are mentioned above.

Able Seaman Smedley. Though wounded himself carried a wounded Petty Officer down from the fore top after it had been struck by a shell; he subsequently went aloft twice more, and started for a third attempt.

 

Engine Boom Artificer Runalls. Escaped up the trunk from the fore air compressor room with difficulty, helped up his stoker and closed the W.T. door of the trunk before he fell insensible.

 

Chief Sick Berth Steward Hamlin, though partially overcome by fumes, assisted Surgeon Langford while the "Inflexible" was proceeding to Tenedos.

 


 

 

29292 -10 SEPTEMBER 1915

 

The following awards have been approved for services in the Gallipoli Peninsula:

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Lance-Corporal John Gibson Way, R.M.L.I., Po./4356/R.F.R./B./487, Portsmouth Battalion. For his services on the 13th July, when he exhibited great courage, presence of mind and powers of personal leadership in a moment of crisis in assisting Major Sketchley to turn a retreat into a successful advance.

 

Chief Petty Officer Richard Homer, O.N. 160808, Howe Battalion (now Sub-Lieutenant, R.N.V.R.). For great gallantry on the 4th June in advancing to a position, from which he could fire at an enemy machine-gun, which was commanding the ground held by our men. Exhibiting coolness and resource he was able to work his way to a spot whence he managed greatly to diminish the effect of the enemy's fire.

 

Leading Seaman Arthur Robert Blore, London/3146, Anson Battalion. The battalion having occupied a portion of the enemy's fire trench on the 4th June, was engaged in digging communication trenches to a position in rear of it, on which they were consolidating the line. The officer being shot, Seaman Blore took charge of a party of 22, who advanced to cover the retirement. He shot two of the crew of a Turkish machine-gun enfilading the trench, and kept up a steady fire checking the enemy who were re-occupying it. He exhibited great bravery and power of leadership on a difficult occasion.

 

Chief Petty Officer Frederick Wilton Stear, O.N. 173071, Anson Battalion (now Sub-Lieutenant R.N.V.R.). Showed great gallantry and did meritorious work on the 4th June in rallying the men of the support line of the Collingwood Battalion, which had lost most of the officers, and in leading them to the assault of the enemy's trenches.

 

Able Seaman William James Pierce, Sussex 3/226, Howe Battalion. Showed great gallantry on the 4th June in remaining in the enemy's trench and continuing firing, although wounded, to cover the retirement of other wounded men, and finally in carrying in a wounded man under heavy fire.

 


 

 

29374 - 19 NOVEMBER 1915

 

The following awards have been approved for services in the Gallipoli Peninsula:

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Chief Petty Officer W. S. Cole, O.N.110113, Hood Battalion. For distinguished gallantry and meritorious work during operations at Cape Helles on 4th June. The advance had been checked and was hesitating; Cole rushed forward under heavy fire, rallied the men, and himself returned and got up the supports, and then again led the advance.

 

Leading Seaman Thomas Coxon, R.N.V.R., O.N.K.X./265, Howe Battalion. For great gallantry and meritorious work on 4th June during operations at Cape Helles. All the officers and section commanders of his Company had been killed or wounded. Leading Seaman Coxon, with great presence of mind, grasped the situation, rallied his Company, and led them on to the enemy's trenches; a retirement might have had serious results. By his personality and example he saved the situation.

 

Leading Seaman J. Borrowman, O.N. C/5/2407, Anson Battalion. For conspicuous gallantry on 4th June during operations at Cape Helles. During an assault a number of men had become separated from their units; Leading Seaman Borrowman gathered them together, reorganised them, and led them again to the assault, showing remarkable powers of leadership and command of men. He set a splendid example.

 

 

 

1916

 

all Admiralty, London, S.W.

 

 

29530 - 31 MARCH 1916

 

During the landing from the S.S. "River Clyde" at V Beach in the Gallipoli Peninsula on the 25th April, 1915, Sub-Lieutenant Tisdall (awarded Victoria Cross), hearing wounded men on the. beach calling for assistance, jumped into the water and, pushing a boat in front of him, went to their rescue. He was, however, obliged to obtain help, and took with him on two trips Leading Seaman Malia and on other trips Chief Petty Officer Perring and Leading Seamen Curtiss and Parkinson. In all Sub-Lieutenant Tisdall made four or five trips between the ship and the shore, and was thus responsible for rescuing several wounded men under heavy and accurate fire. Owing to the fact that Sub-Lieutenant Tisdall and the platoon under his orders were on detached service at the time, and that this Officer was killed in action on the 6th May, it has only now been possible to obtain complete information as to the individuals who took part in this gallant act. Of these, Leading Seaman Fred Curtiss, O.N. Dev. 1899. has been missing since the 4th June, 1915.

 

The following awards have also been approved:

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal

Chief Petty Officer (now Sub-Lieutenant) William Henry Perring, R.N.V.R.

Leading Seaman James Malia, K.P. 760.

Leading Seaman James Parkinson, K.P. 98.

 


 

 

29581 - 12 MAY 1916

 

The following awards have been approved in recognition of services rendered by Petty Officers and men of the Eastern Mediterranean Squadron between the time of landing in the Gallipoli Peninsula in April, 1915, and the evacuation in December, 1915 - January, 1916:

 

To Receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Stoker, First Class, Arthur James Ade, O.N. K. 14283. His picket boat was struck by a shrapnel shell on 9th August, 1915, and the steam-pipe perforated. Stoker Ade - though the engine-room was full of steam - went down, shut off steam and brought up the leading Stoker, who was severely wounded and scalded.

 

Chief Petty Officer Henry Hill, O.N. 173927. On 25th April, 1915, this Petty Officer whilst at the wheel during the landing operations at Anzac, under heavy fire, was struck in the mouth by a bullet, which removed all his front teeth. He was taken below, and after washing out his mouth he insisted on returning to his duty at the wheel, where he remained during the landing trips of 25th and 26th April, on both days under fire.

 


 

 

29603 - 30 MAY 1916

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Acting Leading Seaman John Dewar, R.N.V.R., Clyde Z/232. On the 20th November, 1915, in the Gallipoli Peninsula he threw away a live grenade, which had fallen in the trench, just in time to save a serious accident.

 

Acting Corporal Frank Pilgrim, R.M.L.I., Po./846 (S). On the 20th November, 1915, at Cape Helles, he threw a live Turkish grenade out of a trench and thereby avoided a dangerous accident.

 

Private Ernest Arnold Grinddey (sic), R.M.L.I., Po./15585. On the 25th November, 1915, at Cape Helles, he extinguished a fuse in a live grenade and threw it out of our trench, thereby avoiding a serious accident.

 

Private Mark Turner, R.M.L.I., Po./343 (S). On the 31st October, 1915, at Cape Helles, he picked up and threw a live bomb out of our barricade, thereby avoiding a serious accident.

 

Leading Seaman George William Matthews, R.N.V.R., Sussex, 1/218. On the 31st October, 1915, during a bomb action he threw back the enemy's bombs, thereby saving many casualties among his comrades. During this action he was severely wounded.

 


 

 

29635 - 20 JUNE 1916

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Petty Officer, 1st Class, Frederick Ghom, O.N. 171173.

 


 

 

29668 - 14 JULY 1916

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Seaman Lawrence J. Walsh, R.N.R., O.N.2131. In recognition of his services in one of the whalers which entered Sudi Harbour on the 11th April, 1916. He continued to steer the whaler after being seriously wounded, his leg being badly shattered, until out of range of gun fire, when it was possible to remove the conning tower plates and relieve him.

 


 

 

29736 - 5 SEPTEMBER 1916

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Pte. Thomas Henry Hoskins, R.M.L.I., No. Ch. 12888 (R.F.R. B./1952). For conspicuous gallantry at Gaba Tepe, on the 30th April, 1915, when, after volunteering for the duty, he moved across the open under very heavy and very close range fire to another sector of the outpost line with an urgent message for ammunition and water. Having delivered the message, he courageously attempted to return to his unit, and in doing so was twice wounded.

 


 

 

29752 - 15 SEPTEMBER 1916

 

BATTLE OF JUTLAND - AWARDS TO PETTY OFFICERS and MEN

 

With reference to the Despatch of Admiral Sir John Jellicoe, G.C.B., G.C.V.O., Commander-in-Chief, Grand Fleet, published in the London Gazette of Thursday, 6th July, 1916, the following awards have been approved in connection with the recommendations of the Commander-in-Chief for services rendered by Petty Officers and men of the Grand Fleet in the action in the North Sea on the 31st May-1st June, 1916.

 

The following awards have also been made:

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Stoker Petty Officer William Ackerman, O.N. 301992. Stoker Petty Officer William Ackerman evidenced considerable aptitude and bravery in clearing a suction box in a damaged compartment and freeing the rods in use to keep it clear. It was necessary at one time for him to descend in a diving suit for the purpose.

 

Chief Engine Room Artificer, Second Class, Frederick Tinsley Birchall, O.N. 271185. Chief Engine Room Artificer, Second Class, Birchall showed great coolness and resource in removing portions of shafting from forward to enable the after steering position to be successfully operated. His work was carried out under a heavy fire and he displayed a dexterity and calmness which did him the highest credit.

 

Petty Officer Frederick Adolphus Day (alias Parsons), O.N. 134670.

Leading Seaman James Simpson Watson, O.N. 178876 (R.F.R., Po./B.1329).

When a shell exploded in the starboard battery of the ship in which Petty Officer Day and Leading Seaman Watson were serving, a considerable blast of flame and smoke caused a quantity of smouldering debris to fall among a hoist of cartridges in bags. Petty Officer Day showed great coolness and presence of mind in immediately jumping amongst the cartridges, removing the debris. In doing this he was assisted by Leading Seaman Watson; these two dealing with this dangerous situation promptly.

 

Stoker Petty Officer Patrick James Hogan, O.N.306261. Stoker Petty Officer Hogan remained for over eighteen hours continuously at his station, where, during the action, the fans were broken down and the temperature became almost unbearable; in order to stop leaks in cover joints: he had to take off his clothes. He showed great judgment in hurrying on salt water supply at a critical time.

 

Shipwright, First Class, William Holigan, O.N.343159. Shipwright, First Class, Holigan acted with great courage when a shell burst in the canteen flat of the ship in which he was serving, killing and wounding about twenty men. He was knocked down and scorched about the head, but immediately plugged leaking pipes which had been shot away.

 

Stoker, First Class, Joseph Henry Hughes, O.N.302261. Stoker, First Class, Hughes was one of the ratings on duty in a compartment immediately above that struck by a torpedo. The deck of this compartment was distorted, and all lights save one were extinguished, and water was coming into it. Stoker Hughes at once closed a valve, and the last light going out, he proceeded on deck to obtain another, with which he returned, closing steam and exhaust valves, although there was then 5 feet of water in the compartment. The action taken by this stoker, who remained alone at his place of duty in spite of the shock and noise of the explosion, and took effective steps to ensure the continued operation of the machinery in it, exhibited great presence of mind and bravery.

 

Sick Berth Steward Alfred Edward Jones, O.N.350868. Sick Berth Steward Jones showed conspicuous gallantry in bringing hoses to bear on a cordite fire in the vicinity of the midship ammunition lobby, when the supply parties had been driven away by the fumes. He performed his duties in an exemplary manner in very trying circumstances.

 

Chief Petty Officer Telegraphist Patrick McEvoy, O.N. 173198. Chief Petty Officer Telegraphist McEvoy was working on deck almost continuously throughout the action. Four times he repaired or cleared the Main Aerial under fire in a cool and efficient manner. The smoke on the Mess Deck was so intense that he had to feel his way up on deck.

 

Chief Stoker William George Pring, O.N. 161176. Although severely wounded early in the action, Chief Stoker Pring continued to carry out important duties with repair parties until the action was finished.

 

Petty Officer George Arthur Sayer, O.N. 170698. Petty Officer Sayer's leg was shot away when the turret in which he was stationed was disabled, and he thereafter set a fine example by remaining at his post and trying to get his gun into action again,

 

Acting Stoker Petty Officer Frederick John Henry Wherry, O.N. K.5157. Acting Stoker Petty Officer Wherry, at great risk, flooded the 6-inch magazine of the ship in which he was serving, and then, until gassed, assisted to extinguish a fire in close proximity to the magazine. Subsequently, while still suffering from the effect of the fumes, he left the dressing station to unlock the secondary position for 13.5-inch flooding valves, showing great devotion to duty.

 

Petty Officer William John Adlam Willis, O.N. J.11010. Petty Officer Willis brought his gun into action after he himself and the whole of his gun's crew had been wounded.

 


 

 

29886 - 29 DECEMBER 1916

 

The following awards have also been approved for service in the Battle of Jutland:

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Col. Sergt. Abraham Spooner, R.M.A., No. R.M.A./4980. Second in command of the Marine detachment of H.M.S. "Warrior." After his guns were no longer required, he showed the greatest gallantry and initiative in rescuing wounded in dense smoke and gas fumes from Marines' mess deck.

 

Ldg. Sto. Thomas McGovern, O.N.K. 5606 (Dev.). Showed much courage in extinguishing a large fire, which could only be reached through a shell hole surrounded by intense heat, fumes and smoke. His behaviour was highly commendable.

 

 

 

 

1917

 

all Admiralty, London, S.W.

 

 

30029 - 20 APRIL 1917

 

Honours for Miscellaneous Services.

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Ch. Yeo. Sigs. Albert Arthur Bishop, O.N. 201787 (Ch.). Showed great devotion to duty in action during the Dardanelles Operations. After his left leg had been shattered above the ankle, this man raised himself into a sitting position and continued performing his duties and passing reports to his Commanding Officer.

 


 

 

30061 - 8 MAY 1917

 

DOVER STRAITS ACTION

 

The following awards have also been approved - for Service in the Action Between H.M. Ships "Swift" and "Broke" and German Destroyers on the night of the 20th to 21st April, 1917.

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

A.B. William George Rawles, O.N., 20176V (Po.). Although he had four bad wounds in his legs, in addition to other injuries, he continued to steer H.M.S. "Broke" in action until the enemy destroyer had been rammed.

 


 

 

30066 - 11 MAY 1917

 

Honours for Miscellaneous Services.

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Sto., 1st Cl., James Davies, O.N. 301312 (Ch.). For very gallant rescue work performed when the ship in which he was serving struck a mine.

 


 

 

30133 - 15 JUNE 1917

 

EAST AFRICAN CAMPAIGN

 

..... (see East African Campaign, Naval Despatch dated 28 January 1917):

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal:

Corporal, Plymouth/12447, Ernest Victor Dean, R.M.L.I. Showed great initiative at Bagamoyo. After Captain Thomas, R.M.L.I., had been killed he immediately informed the Commanding Officer of the situation, and then taking cover behind a tree shot one German and one Askari, and wounded a second Askari.

 


 

 

30194 - 20 JULY 1917

 

Honours for Services in Action with Enemy Submarines.

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal:

C.P.O. Mech., 2nd Gr., John Frederick Tadman, O.N. 271984 (Ch.). For conspicuous gallantry in climbing out on the wing of an aeroplane to plug a leak in the radiator. He remained in this position for a period of twenty minutes, thus enabling the aeroplane to return safely to her base.

 


 

 

30227 - 10 AUGUST 1917

 

Honours for Miscellaneous Services.

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Serjt. James Francis McLoughlin, R.M.L.I., Po. 8873. For conspicuous gallantry at the capture of Salif on the 12 June, 1917. Just before the surrender he came across 11 unwounded and one wounded Turkish soldiers. Followed by one petty officer, Serjt. McLoughlin jumped among them, shot one, and made seven surrender.

 

A.B. Francis George Noble, O.N. 205234 (Po.). For conspicuous gallantry at the capture of Salif on the 12 June, 1917. When a private of Marines was fatally wounded, and was lying in an exposed position, Noble went out from cover and brought him in. His behaviour throughout was most praiseworthy.

 

Pte. Henry George Bartlett, R.M.L.I., Po. 15558. For conspicuous gallantry at the capture of Salif on the 12 June, 1917. Single-handed he entered a hut occupied by two unwounded and one wounded Turks and three Arabs and took them prisoner.

 


 

 

30258 - 28 AUGUST 1917

 

Honours for Service in the Action in the Straits of Otranto on the 15th May, 1917.

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Dkhnd. Frederick Hawley Lamb. R.N.R., O.N. 1491 TS. Though severely wounded in the leg by the explosion of a box of ammunition on H.M. Drifter "Gowan Lea," he stuck to his gun endeavouring to make it work.

 

Engmn. Charles Mobbs, R.N.R., O.N. 1760 ES. He remained at his post until the main steam pipe was shot away, when he was forced to leave the engine-room, but as soon as possible he returned and put out the fires. He also went in a small boat and assisted to plug holes in the ship's side, thus enabling her to reach port safely.

 

2nd Hnd. John Turner, R.N.R., O.N. 5098 DA. He displayed great coolness whilst under fire. Seeing that the enemy were endeavouring to destroy the W/T apparatus, Turner went aloft to strike the topmast, quite regardless of the fact that shells were passing between the mast and funnel.

 

Engmn. Walter Watt, R.N.R., O.N. 2089 TS. The crew were taken prisoners, but on their way to the Austrian cruiser Watt jumped overboard. He was recaptured, and when alongside the cruiser he again jumped overboard and escaped. He was picked up by another drifter 1 1/2 hours later.

 

2nd Hnd. Joseph Hendry, R.N.R., O.N. 1959 SA. His ship being in a sinking condition, the remainder of the crew left her in a small boat and were taken prisoners, but Hendry refused to leave. His ship eventually sank under him, and he was in the water for some hours until picked up by another drifter.

 


 

 

30363 - 30 OCTOBER 1917

 

Honours for Services in Action with Enemy Submarines.

 

To Receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Sea. Alexander Salisbury Morrison, R.N.R., O.N. 5848A. (since died of wounds).

Sea. James Thomson, R.N.R., O.N.6029A.

W./T. Op., 1st Cl., Thomas Ernest Fletcher, R.N.R., O.N., 404 W.T.S.

Sea. John Stephen Martindale, R.N.R., O.N. 8556A.

Sea. William Henry Bennison, R.N.R., O.N. 7495A.

A.B. Richard Walter Sheppard, O.N. J25419

A.B. Denis Murphy, O.N. J25416 (Dev.).

 


 

 

30437 - 18 DECEMBER 1917

 

Honours for Miscellaneous Services.

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

A.B. Harry Johns, O.N. 183788 (R.F.R. Dev./B3019). For conspicuous gallantry during the combined naval and military operations in the neighbourhood of Lindi, East Africa, on the 10th and 11th June, 1917. He showed exemplary conduct in at once going below into the after flat, when the ship was hit by an enemy 4.1 shell, in order to assist in extinguishing the fire, and by his coolness and judgment prevented the fire from spreading.

 

Ldg. Sto. James Leach, O.N. K11874 (Po.). For conspicuous gallantry during the combined naval and military operations in the neighbourhood of Lindi, East Africa, on tho 10th and 11th June, 1917. Though wounded in two places in the legs, he showed exemplary conduct in continuing to stand by the engines (the engine-room artificer in charge having been killed) until ordered on deck for medical treatment.

 

Ldg. Sto. George Horrocks Pascall, O.N. 221595 (R.F.R. Dev./B4016). For conspicuous gallantry during the combined naval and military operations in the neighbourhood of Lindi, East Africa, on the 10th and 11th June, 1917. He showed exemplary conduct in at once going below into the after flat, when the ship was hit by an enemy 4.1 shell, in order to assist in extinguishing the fire, and by his coolness and judgment prevented the fire from spreading.

 

 

 

1918

 

all Admiralty, London, S.W.

 

 

30581 - 15 MARCH 1918

 

Honours for Services in Action on the Occasion of the

Raid into the Straits of Dover by Enemy Destroyers on the Night of the 14th-15th February, 1918

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal

Engmn. James Ewing, R.N.R., O.N. 2637E.S., H.M. Drifter "Violet May."

Engmn. Alexander Noble, R.N.R., O.N. 2651E.S., H.M. Drifter "Violet May."

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. When their ship had been very severely handled by the enemy, and was on fire forward, and all the rest of the crew had been killed with two exceptions, and those so badly wounded that they could render little or no assistance, Engmn. Ewing and Noble cleared the wreckage of the boom from the small boat, got out the boat, put their wounded shipmates into it, and then took to the boat. Finding the ship did not sink, they returned to her, attacked the fire with buckets, and got it out, small arm ammunition in the wheelhouse exploding as they worked. They then got their injured ship- mates on board again and made them comfortable, afterwards burning flares of old clothes soaked in paraffin until picked up and towed in at 7 a.m. The Vice-Admiral, Dover Patrol, reports: "The conduct of Noble and Ewing was altogether admirable. Their great gallantry and devotion to duty-and, I would add, their simple modesty- entitles them to very special consideration."

 

2nd Hnd. George Bertie Rivett, R.N.R., O.N. 5727D.A., H.M. Drifter "Kosmos." For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He displayed great courage and presence of mind when, first, his own ship having sunk, he went overboard after the small boat which was adrift. Later, he put his lifebelt on a severely wounded engineman of another ship. Finally, he assisted in saving the life of Engmn. Wakerley when the latter became unconscious. He was in the water for over two hours.

 


 

 

30654 - 23 APRIL 1918

 

Honours for the Royal Naval Air Service.

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Ldg. Mech. (E.) Sydney Francis Anderson, D.S.M., O.N. F.12676. For conspicuous gallantry, initiative and courage displayed by him on the 19th March, 1918, when the petrol system of his machine sustained extensive damage in action with enemy aircraft. After repairing the damage to the petrol system he noticed that the starboard engine was boiling violently. After reporting to the officer in charge and requesting that the engine should be throttled down as far as possible, he climbed out on the lower plane, and effected extensive repairs to the water circulation system, and thus enabled the engine to be opened out to the desired number of revolutions. Ldg. Mechanic Anderson's work, which was carried out entirely in the open in a wind force of ninety miles per hour, and occupied 1 ¾ hours, undoubtedly saved the machine.

 


 

 

30687 - 14 MAY 1918

 

Action in the Heligoland Bight on the 11th November, 1917.

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

P.O. George Robert Greenfield, O.N. 185253 (Po.). For conspicuous gallantry. He set a fine example in continuing to serve and fire his gun single-handed, when all his crew had become casualties. Owing to his energy only one salvo was missed. He quickly reorganised the new crew, and kept his gun in action. During a lull he cleared away the casualties and steadied up his new crew.

 


 

 

30732 - 4 JUNE 1918

 

Honours for Services in Action with Enemy Submarines.

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal

A.B. Aaron Lumsden, O.N. 218195 (R.F.R. Ch./B10894).

A.B. Edward James Moore, O.N. 200003 (R.F.R. Dev./B685).

 


 

 

30756 - 18 JUNE 1918

 

Honours for Services in the Action with Enemy Destroyers off the Belgian Coast on the 21st March, 1918.

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Sto., 1st Cl., John Darrock, O.K. K5718 (Ch.). For most conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He entered the damaged boiler-room of H.M.S. "Botha," from which steam was still escaping, and assisted watchkeepers to get on deck under heavy fire.

 


 

 

30807 - 19 JULY 1918

 

ZEEBRUGGE AND OSTEND RAIDS

 

Honours for Services in the Operations against Zeebrugge and Ostend on the Night of the 22nd-23rd April, 1918.

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Ch. Motor Mech. James Attwood, R.N.V.R., O.N. M.B. 1915.

Ch. Motor Mech. Sydney Harold Fox, R.N.V.R., O.N. M.B. 1872.

Ldg. Dkhnd. William George Weeks, R.N.R., O.N. 13682 D.A.

The three ratings above mentioned were amongst those who volunteered to man the motor launches detailed to rescue the crews of the blockships, and it was largely due to the coolness and courage with which the crews of these motor launches carried out their duties that so many officers and men were rescued. These three men displayed most conspicuous gallantry in the face of intense gun and machine-gun fire at short range.

 

Sig. Thomas Charles Bryant, O.N. 215297 (Po.). This man, like all the crew of "Iris II.," behaved with great coolness and in a most exemplary manner (under very heavy fire throughout the whole operation. Shortly after leaving the mole at Zeebrugge the ship came under very heavy fire from the mole and shore batteries, being ten times hit by small shell and twice by large ones. The first large shell carried away the port side of the bridge on which Signalman Bryant was stationed, seriously wounding him and causing many other casualties. Subsequently, being the only Signalman left in the ship, he was carried to the upper deck, and, although both his legs were shattered, he endeavoured to answer signals which were being made, behaving with great fortitude, while in considerable pain.

 

Sto., 1st Cl., Henry Cullis Bindall, O.N. K.5343 (Po.).

P.O. Walter Harner, O.N. 228795 (Dev.).

Ldg. Sea. William Gladstone Cleaver, O.N. 2211961 (Po.).

E.R.A., 3rd Cl., Allan Gordon Roxburgh, O.N. 272442 (Ch.).

The ratings above mentioned were members of the crew of Submarine C.3, which was skilfully placed between the piles of the Zeebrugge mole viaduct and there blown up, the fuse being lighted before the submarine was abandoned. They volunteered for and, under the command of an officer, eagerly undertook this hazardous enterprise, although they were well aware that if the means of rescue failed, and that if any of them were in the water at the time of the explosion, they would be killed outright.

 

Ldg. Sea. Albert Oscar Davis, O.N. 189243 (Ch.). Leading Seaman Davis remained at his station in "Iphigenia" after the mines had been fired and after the cutter had left, awaiting, in accordance with instructions previously given, orders to destroy his gun. The order | was not received, and he stayed at his post until the ship sank under him, when he jumped into the water and swam to the boats.

 

Ch. E.R.A. Frank Marsden Gale, O.N. 272503 (Ch.). After both engines of "Thetis" had been disabled, and when the ship was in a sinking condition, this Chief Petty Officer returned to the engine-room, with an Engineer Officer, and succeeded in re-starting the starboard engine, thereby enabling the ship to be turned more into the fairway before she sank.

 

Pte. William Hopewell, R.M.L.I., No. Ply./15995. After the No. 1 and No. 2 of his Lewis gun section had become casualties in the ship in which Private Hopewell was serving, he took the Lewis gun ashore and brought it into action. He continued to fire the gun throughout the operation, and was almost the last man to retire, bringing his gun out of action with him, until it was rendered useless by a direct hit by a shell.

 

Sergt. Frank John Knill, R.M.A., No. R.M.A./12738. This non-commissioned officer was in charge of "Vindictive's" howitzer, which fired continuously under the most difficult conditions during the whole period that the ship was alongside the mole at Zeebrugge. In spite of being semi-gassed, Sergt. Knill did not leave his post, but remained in charge of his gun until it ceased firing.

 

A.B. Ferdinand Eugene Minns Lake, O.N. J.22273 (Po.). This Able Seaman formed one of the seaman storming party. His commanding officer reports that when "Iris II." was hit by several large shells, he found Able Seaman Lake extinguishing a fire under the fore-bridge with sand, under very heavy shrapnel fire. Regardless of his own safety, Able Seaman Lake assisted his commanding officer to throw overboard Stokes and Mills bombs, which were quite hot. He then took the wheel, and acted as quartermaster for six hours.

 

Pte. John Denis Lyons Press, R.M.L.I., No. Po./15394. Private Press landed on the mole at Zeebrugge as runner to an officer of the Royal Marines. When his officer was seriously wounded, in the head and rendered unconscious, Private Press remained with him, and, although himself wounded, eventually succeeded in carrying him back on board "Vindictive."

 

P.O. David Percy Smith, O.N. 225904 (Po.). Petty Officer Smith acted as quartermaster of "Iris II.," and carried out his duties with great coolness throughout. On leaving the mole at Zeebrugge, the bridge of his ship was partially shot away, the captain and the navigator being severely wounded. Petty Officer Smith remained at his exposed post under heavy fire, steering the ship to safety with one hand while lighting the compass with a torch held in the other.

 

P.O., 1st Cl., Edwin George Youlton, O.N. 183625 (Po.). This petty officer steered "Vindictive" when going alongside the mole at Zeebrugge, after which he remained with his commanding officer throughout, and gave a fine example of courage when standing in a most exposed position. When a bursting shell caused a fire in a pile of boxes containing fused Stokes bombs, he averted a catastrophe by stamping without the slightest hesitation on the burning parts. This brave action was repeated shortly afterwards, when the fire restarted, just before he was struck, down and severely wounded by a shell.

 


 

 

30870 - 27 AUGUST 1918

 

OSTEND RAID - HONOURS

 

..... (see Ostend Raid - Honours, Naval Despatch dated 24 July 1918):

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

P.O. Joseph James Reed, D.S.M., O.N. 230360 (Ch.).

Ldg. Dkhnd. David George Rees, R.N.R., O.N. 3146 S.D.

 


 

 

30900 - 13 SEPTEMBER 1918

 

Honours for Services in Action with Enemy Submarines.

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Offr's Std., 2nd Cl., Reginald John Starling, O.N. L6027 (Dev.).

A.B. Samuel James Livingstone, O.N. J 39103 (Dev.).

 


 

 

30979 - 25 OCTOBER 1918

 

Honours for Miscellaneous Services.

 

To receive a Bar to the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Act. C.P.O. Arthur Robert Blore, C.G.M., R.N.V.R., O.N. London 5/3146 (Anson. Battalion, 63rd (Royal Naval) Division). When all company officers had become casualties, and the company was held up by heavy machine-gun fire, this petty officer took command of the company. He reorganised and led the men forward by rushes to the enemy position. When about 100 yards from the position enemy fire became very heavy, and many casualties were caused to his command. Finding this, he went forward alone, and, single-handed, rushed the crew of a heavy machine gun, shooting the gunners. The enemy position was then turned, and thereby captured. By his initiative and personal courage a strong position was taken and many casualties avoided. Twenty-seven enemy machine guns, all of which were captured, were afterwards counted covering the ground over which this company advanced.

 

 

 

1919

 

all Admiralty, London, S.W.

 

 

31516 - 19 AUGUST 1919

 

Honours for Miscellaneous Services.

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

Ch. Motor, Mech. Hugh Beeley, R.N.V.R., O.N., M.B. 2108. In recognition of his conspicuous gallantry, coolness and skill under extremely difficult conditions in action.

 


 

 

31638 - 11 NOVEMBER 1919

 

Honours for Miscellaneous Services.

 

To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.

E.R.A., 2nd Cl., Alexander Murphy, R.N.V.R., O.N. (Mersey) Z3/182. For most conspicuous gallantry as a volunteer in H.M.S. "Julnar" on the 24th April, 1916, when that vessel attempted to reach Kut-El-Amarah with stores for the besieged garrison.

 

P.O., 1st Cl., William Rowbottom, O.N. J2953 (Ch.). For most conspicuous gallantry as a volunteer in H.M.S. "Julnar" on the 24th April, 1916, when that vessel attempted to reach Kut-El-Amarah with stores for the besieged garrison.

 

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