Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Chief Officer

Unit:

Merchant Navy

Awarded on:

June 8th, 1943

"The ship was torpedoed in darkness and badly damaged. There was great danger from the escaping fumes of the very dangerous cargo which she was carrying. Abandonment was ordered and four boats were got away successfully. Within an hour all the occupants had been picked up. At daylight, it was seen that the vessel was still afloat, and the Chief Officer, with two of the crew, reboarded her to assess the possibilities of salvage. Tugs were sent for, but the ship sank before she could be taken in tow.
Mr. Henderson displayed great courage in reboarding the ship, his task being rendered exceedingly hazardous by reason of the fumes which were still escaping from the cargo."