Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Fifth Engineer Officer

Unit:

m.v. Ripley, British Merchant Navy

Awarded on:

June 8th, 1943

"The ship, sailing alone, was hit by two torpedoes. She listed so rapidly that abandonment was ordered. Some of the boats had been wrecked by the explosions but the crew were able to get away in two others, just before the ship turned on her beam ends. One of the boats was picked up the next day and the other made port after five days. No lives were lost. The Fifth Engineer Officer showed great courage and disregard of his personal safety. Although the ship rapidly listed after being hit, he immediately went below and stopped the main engines, thus making it possible for the boats to be got away safely. Subsequently, during the boat voyage, his bearing and conduct set a fine example to all."