Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Master

Unit:

x, British Merchant Navy

Awarded on:

April 4th, 1944

"The ship, sailing in convoy, was torpedoed. Although she was badly damaged the Master decided that she could be saved. The engines were used intermittently throughout the night and the ship was kept in a safe position in the convoy. The following day an escort vessel took her in tow but, as both ships were in-danger of drifting on to sandbanks near by, the tow had to be slipped and the ship, by the skilful use of her engines, kept clear until a tug arrived and took her in tow again. Captain West displayed courage and skill of a high order throughput and, by his determination and seamanship, kept his ship clear of danger until she was taken in tow and brought safely back to port."