Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Eerste stuurman

Unit:

s.s. Amstelland, Nederlandse Koopvaardij

Awarded on:

May 16th, 1941

Royal decree no. 1

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Eerste Stuurman

Unit:

s.s. Amstelland, Nederlandse Koopvaardij

Awarded on:

1941

"The ship was twice attacked by enemy aircraft. She was not seriously damaged the first time, but a heavy bomb fell through the after bulkhead of the Officers' bathroom and remained unexploded. The Chief Officer tried hard to lift it out but he was unable to move it.
Two bombs fell near her in the second attack, and she began to leak badly in the forepeak and in Nos. 1 and 2 holds. Her crew got the pumps going, and for 44 hours they worked unceasingly. A Destroyer stood by; her Commanding Officer repeatedly urged the Master to give up what he saw was a hopeloss end, and in view of the unexploded bomb very dangerous task.
At last the Merchantman lowered a boat and 26 of her crew went aboard the Destroyer. The remaining 20 men worked until, three hours later they received a signal that no tug could reach them until the next day. Then they abandoned ship.
Captain Riethergen, completely exhausted, was the last to leave. Half way down the ladder he lost grip and fell into the sea; he was picked up 15 minutes later, but the Destroyer's doctor was unable to revive him. He was the only casualty."