A

ALDERTON
Peter Hann

LS

UCWE Portland

28 May 1957

BEM

CD - BEM awarded for gallantry and skill in rendering safe a German mine underwater and in darkness in the West India Dock, London on 26th January 1957.

ANDERSON
John Kevin Arnie

Diver 1

Northern Diving Group

25 Jul 2008

QCB

CD - QCB awarded for attempting to find survivors in capsized oil rig support vessel Bourbon Dolphin in heavy seas off the Shetland Islands on 12 April 2007.

B

BALLINGER
Christopher John (Cris)

CPO(D)

FCDT

30 Dec 1987

BEM

CD - BEM awarded in New Year Honours 1988 for diving bell rescue in MV Seaforth Clansman.

BARKER
John Samuel

A/LS

FCDT

26 Jul 1968

QCB

CD - QCB awarded in recognition of his great determination, courage and devotion to duty when assisting in the disposal of several live bombs in the Wanchai district of Hong Kong on 13th August 1967.

BIRKETT
John (Jack)

Cdr RN

SofD

30 Dec 1987

OBE

MCDO - Appointed OBE as Superintendent of Diving during operation to rescue passengers and recover bodies from MV Herald of Free Enterprise car ferry at Zeebrugge.

BOUND
Simon Nicholas

Lt RN

FCDT

30 Dec 1987

QGM

MCDO - QGM awarded in recognition of bravery during the hazardous rescue operations after the capsize of MV Herald of Free Enterprise off Zeebrugge on the night of 6th March 1987.

BRAY
Bernard Edward (Donkey)

CPO(CD1)
CPO(CD1)

FCDT
FCDT

7 Aug 1973
14 Apr 1975

BEM
Bar to BEM

CD - BEM awarded for gallantry in Malta. See below.

Bar to BEM awarded for Suez Canal clearance.

Chief Petty Officer Bray and Petty Officer Humphrey were the Seconds-in-Command of the two shifts who were working under Lieutenant O'Driscoll during the period 16th October to 11th December 1972. Their coolness both whilst diving themselves and directing the operations of others was instrumental in the success of the highly dangerous operation of removing the bombs from the wreck of the SS Talbot.

The leadership and courage shown by Chief Petty Officer Bray and Petty Officer Humphrey were of the highest order and in the best traditions of the Service.

BRETT
Brian William

LS

P&MCDT

29 Apr 1975

QGM

CD - See below.

QGM awarded for gallantry. Lieutenant Dutton, the Officer-in-Charge of the Portsmouth and Medway Clearance Diving Team and Leading Seaman Brett, a member of the Portsmouth and Medway Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team, boarded the Suction Dredger THE SOLENT moored off Felixstowe at 2100 on 3rd August 1974 to investigate a mine which was immovably jammed in the vessel's drag head. The mine, a Ground Type GD, is the most difficult and dangerous to render safe of all the types used by the Germans in World War II. Because of the location and condition in which the mine was discovered, the normal procedure for rendering the mine safe was not possible.

After Lieutenant Dutton had organised the evacuation of non-essential personnel from the dredger, he and Leading Seaman Brett commenced the difficult task of removing the mine from the vessel's drag head. The damage to the fuse in the dredging operation prevented identification and normal defusing procedure. Although aware that the fuse might be in a highly dangerous state, Lieutenant Dutton and Leading Seaman Brett continued with the task until the mine was eventually freed, lowered to the sea-bed and detonated at 0205 the following morning.

Lieutenant Dutton's skill and calm efficiency and Leading Seaman Brett's courage and devotion to duty during the prolonged operation were in the highest tradition of the Service.

BRUEN
Nigel Arthur (Bernie)

Lt Cdr RN

CO FCDT 3
CO HMS Gavinton

8 Oct 1982

DSC
MBE

MCDO - See below.

DSC awarded in recognition of service during operations in the South Atlantic.

During the evening of 25 May 1982, RFA SIR GALAHAD was struck by a 1,000 Ib bomb which failed to explode. Lieutenant Bruen, Officer in Charge Fleet Clearance Diving Team 3 was tasked to effect its removal. The bomb was lodged in a difficult position, surrounded by broken batteries which had splashed acid around the compartment. The decision was taken to raise the bomb to the vehicle deck and dispose of it overboard. This difficult and dangerous task was successfully completed by the team in the early hours of the following day. During the operation, Lieutenant Bruen showed great personal courage and impeccable leadership. 

Appointed MBE for mine recovery during Operation Harling in Red Sea 1984 while in Command of HMS Gavinton.

BRYANT
Arthur Quantrill

CPO(CD1)

(Gazetted as CPO(GI))

Med Fleet CD Team

2 Jun 1962

BEM

CD - BEM awarded Queen's Birthday Honours 1962.

C

CARSS
Andrew (Andy)

CPO(D)

SDU2

29 Apr 2003

QGM

CD - QGM awarded for Brave Conduct in rendering safe a Second World War German 250 kg bomb unearthed in Portsmouth Naval Base on 19 Sep 02. It took 20 hours to expose and immunise the fuzes after which the bomb was taken to sea and detonated at 1040 on 20 Sep.

CARTER
Sydney

CPO(CD1)

P&MCDT

31 Dec 1974

BEM

CD - BEM awarded in New Year Honours 1975.

CHARLWOOD
Anthony (Charlie)

PO(CD1)

FCDT

26 Jul 1968

BEM

CD - See below

Petty Officer Charlwood had been carrying out his duty as a member of the Fleet Clearance Diving Team's Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit in Hong Kong during the early weeks of bomb attacks.  On 13th August 1967, accompanied by another rating, P.O. Charlwood was called to render safe several live bombs on a road junction in the Wanchai District. A large and hostile crowd collected, surrounding the ratings, and whilst engaged in preparations to detonate the bombs a grenade was thrown from the crowd injuring P.O. Charlwood in the leg. Although in great pain he insisted on remaining on the site until the bombs had been made safe.

CHRISTMAS
Patrick

PO(CD1)

HMS Vernon

12 Jun 1958

BEM

CD - BEM awarded in Queen's Birthday Honours 1958.

CHURCHER
Colin.

Lt RN

P&MCDT

8 Jan 1971

MBE

CDO - See citation below..

On 6th February 1970, the Portsmouth and Medway Clearance Diving Team, led by Lieutenant Churcher, were called in to dispose of a German Ground Mine type GC which had been discovered during clearing operations in the West Warwick reservoir at Walthamstow.

These mines are fitted with an outstandingly dangerous combination of actuating and anti-removal devices. Until inspection proves the contrary, it must be assumed that any or all of the following devices are fitted: a magnetic and /or acoustic system, an arming clock "booby-trapped" with an anti-removal device, a 6-80 day timing circuit, and a light sensitive mechanism. The main charge is 1,500 lbs of hexanite.

The team arrived on site shortly after mid-day and found the mine completely exposed and resting in about a foot of mud and water. A 1,000 yd radius evacuation of the surrounding area, which contained factories and a few private dwelling houses had already been carried out.

Lieutenant Churcher, accompanied by one assistant, made a preliminary inspection of the mine, the outer case of which appeared to be in remarkably good condition. The bomb fuse and primary release were found to be somewhat mutilated, and because of their damaged condition, Lieutenant Churcher decided not to gag or immunise the fuse. The detonator plates were easily removed, and the leads were cut one at a time and isolated. The detonator itself proved relatively stubborn. As it was now comparatively safe, Lieutenant Churcher decided to leave it in place, rather than exert any undue force to remove it.

Because of the large quantity of explosive and the nature of the site, exploding the mine in situ was out of the question. As all the detonating devices had being completed at midnight. A further two hours were then spent in filling sand bags with explosive from the mine case and preparing them for burning the next day.  The high degree of personal risk which existed during the period of preliminary inspection, rendering safe, and steaming out, was borne out by the excellent condition of the detonator and' the booby trap arming clock on removal. At 0930 on 7th February the main charge was ignited, burning for 15 minutes, and the fuse pocket successfully detonated. The empty mine case was later removed from the reservoir.

Lieutenant Churcher, who was in personal charge throughout this long operation, displayed outstanding skill, coolness and courage, exposing himself to great personal risk. His conduct at all times was in the highest traditions of the Service.

CLARK
Brian Vincent

PO CD RAN

RAN CDT3 Det 1

23 Feb 1968 (to be dated 22 Feb 1968)

MID

CD - MID awarded for gallantry during operational services in Vietnam.

CLARKE
Vaughan Stephen (Nobby)

AB UW^*
(Later CPO MW)

HMS Bossington

31 Dec 1974

BEM

MW - BEM awarded for Op Rheostat Suez clearance.

COBBY
Peter John Clement

PO

UCWE

28 May 1957

BEM

CD (Later CDO) - BEM awarded for gallantry and skill in rendering safe a German mine underwater and in darkness in the West India Dock, London on 26th January 1957.

COGGINS
John Stephen

Lt RN

OIC Far East Fleet Clearance Diving Team

?

MBE

MCDO - Appointed MBE for clearing Japanese torpedoes from an airfield while OIC FECDT in Hong Kong.

COULSON
Barry Roy

PO(CD)

P&MCDT

8 Jan 1971

BEM

CD - BEM awarded for GC mine disposal at Walthamstow reservoir 6/7 February 1970.  Personally assisted the Officer-in-Charge during the most crucial stages displaying courage and devotion to duty.

CROOME-CARROLL
Michael Patrick John

Lt Cdr RN

MCM2

28 Jun 1991

MBE

MCDO - Appointed MBE in recognition of service within the operations in the Gulf.  MCM Squadron Operations Officer embarked in HMS Herald.

D

DADD
John

PO(CD1)

HMS Maxton

31 Dec 1974

BEM

CD - BEM awarded for Op Rheostat Suez clearance.

DANIELS
Robert John

L/A/CPO(D)

?

31 Dec 2005

MBE

CD - Appointed MBE in 2006 New Year Honours.

DICKINSON
John

Lt RN

Med B&MD Team

28 Dec 1951

MID

B&MD - MID awarded in recognition of Operational Minesweeping and Bomb and Mine Disposal services.

DIXON
Antony (Dixie)

PO(D)

Cox'n HMS Blyth

31 Oct 2003

MID

CD - MID awarded in recognition of gallant and distinguished services whilst on operations in Iraq during the period 19th March to 19th April 2003.

DUTTON
Brian Frank

Lt RN
Lt Cdr RN

OIC P&MCDT
CO FCDT 1

29 Apr 1975
8 Oct 1982

QGM
DSO

MCDO - See below.

QGM awarded for gallantry. Lieutenant Dutton, the Officer-in-Charge of the Portsmouth and Medway Clearance Diving Team and Leading Seaman Brett, a member of the Portsmouth and Medway Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team, boarded the Suction Dredger THE SOLENT moored off Felixstowe at 2100 on 3rd August 1974 to investigate a mine which was immovably jammed in the vessel's drag head. The mine, a Ground Type GD, is the most difficult and dangerous to render safe of all the types used by the Germans in World War II. Because of the location and condition in which the mine was discovered, the normal procedure for rendering the mine safe was not possible.

After Lieutenant Dutton had organised the evacuation of non-essential personnel from the dredger, he and Leading Seaman Brett commenced the difficult task of removing the mine from the vessel's drag head. The damage to the fuse in the dredging operation prevented identification and normal defusing procedure. Although aware that the fuse might be in a highly dangerous state, Lieutenant Dutton and Leading Seaman Brett continued with the task until the mine was eventually freed, lowered to the sea-bed and detonated at 0205 the following morning.

Lieutenant Dutton's skill and calm efficiency and Leading Seaman Brett's courage and devotion to duty during the prolonged operation were in the highest tradition of the Service.

DSO awarded in recognition of service during operations in the South Atlantic. During Argentinean air attacks on 21st May 1982 HMS ARGONAUT was struck by a 1000 Ib bomb which did not explode. The bomb caused extensive damage and lodged between two missiles in the forward magazine where it was also surrounded by damaged and extremely dangerous ordnance. Lieutenant Commander Dutton, as Officer in Charge of Fleet Clearance Diving Team 1 was tasked to remove the bomb. He decided that it was too dangerous to defuse in situ. Instead he took the decision to lift the bomb from the magazine and hoist it overboard. The task proved extremely complex and hazardous requiring clearance of ammunition from the magazine and cutting through sections of the ship's structure. The operation took the team seven days during which HMS ARGONAUT came under further air attacks. The slightest jar or disturbance to the precise lifting angle would have resulted in an explosion which would almost certainly have caused the loss of the ship.

In spite of these difficulties the bomb was successfully removed, largely due to the skill and ingenuity of Lieutenant Commander Dutton. He displayed staunch determination, steadfastness and courage of the highest order.

E

EARLEY
Richard Frederick George

Salvage Diver

HM Boom Defence Depot, Greenock

4 Jun 1957

BEM

Salvage Diver

EDMUNSON
Lee

LS(D)

?

31 Oct 2003

QCVS

CD - 

F

FARRELL
Stephane

LS(D)

FELLOWS
Michael George (Mick)

CPO(D)
FCPO(D)
FCPO(D)

SNICDT
FCDT 1
SofD

?
8 Oct 1982
30 Dec 1987

BEM
DSC
MBE

CD - See below.

BEM awarded for work as Chief of SNICDT.

DSC awarded in recognition of service during operations in the South Atlantic.  On 21st May 1982 FCPO(D) Fellows, Fleet Clearance Diving Team 1, was tasked to investigate an unexploded 1,000 Ib bomb on HMS ANTRIM. It proved impossible to determine whether the bomb was armed and the decision was taken to lift it from its position close to the Seaslug missile magazine to the Flight Deck where it could be lowered into the water.  This operation was hampered by further air attacks during which the team had to stay close to the bomb to prevent it from being jarred. Smoke from burning materials forced them to wear breathing apparatus and to carry out fire fighting tasks to keep heat away. However, after a difficult ten hour operation they succeeded in disposing of the bomb and damaged pyrotechnics from the magazine. This was the first unexploded bomb dealt with during the Falklands conflict and, despite the absence of precedent, FCPO(D) Fellows led his team with devotion to duty of the highest order and complete disregard for personal safety. The conspicuous bravery shown by the team was a major factor in safeguarding the ship and her crew.

Appointed MBE while on SofD's staff during rescue of passengers and recovery of bodies from capsized Herald of Free Enterprise car ferry at Zeebrugge.

FIELDING
James Thomas

LS(CD)

FCDT

17 Mar 1967

QCB

CD - QCB awarded for brave conduct in recognition of their great skill and courage when removing a highly dangerous 250 kg. high explosive bomb from the river Avon at Bristol on 1st April 1966.

FILER
William Brook

PO
Lt RN

HMS Medway (Alexandria)
HMS Reclaim

15 Sep 1942
1 Jan 1952

GM
MBE

RMS - GM awarded  for gallantry and undaunted devotion to duty.  Assisted Goodman de-fuze an Italian circling torpedo on beach 11 miles east of Alexandria on 15th January 1942 soon after one had killed the Torpedo Officer of HMS Medway.

Appointed MBE in New Year Honours 1952 for HM S/M Affray recovery.

FITZJOHN
Steven Anthony

LS(D)

FDU

28 Jun 1991

MID

CD - MID awarded in recognition of service during the operations in the Gulf.

FOGGIN
Ernest

CPO(CD1)

?

27 Dec 1970

BEM

CD - 

FORSEY
David John Baden

Lt Cdr RN

SofD

10 Jun 1983

MBE

MCDO - 

Minesweeping and B&MD - First MID awarded Queen's Birthday Honours 1941 for outstanding zeal, patience and cheerfulness, and for never failing to set an example of wholehearted devotion to duty, without which the high tradition of the Royal Navy could not have been upheld (possibly for service in HMS Leda during Dunkirk evacuation (8 trips)).

Second MID awarded for bravery while serving in one of HM Ships escorting a convoy to North Russia (one of three personnel who returned below to try to re-start steam generator when HMS Gossamer was bombed and sunk Kola Inlet 24 June 1942 while on Russian Convoy escort duty).  

DSC awarded for distinguished service during the War in Europe (wind-up operations NW Europe 1945).

Appointed MBE New Year Honours 1952 in recognition of Bomb and Mine Disposal Service. 

G

GARRETT
Jeffrey Lynden

AB CD RAN

RAN CDT3 Det 5

22 May 1970 (to be dated 30 Apr 1970)

MID

CD - MID awarded in recognition of gallant services in Vietnam. 

GEDDES
Keith MacLean

AB(CD2)

HMS Bossington

31 Dec 1974

BEM

CD - BEM awarded for Op Rheostat Suez Canal clearance

GEORGE
Barry Charles

Diver 1

?

6 Apr 2001

QCB

CD - QCB awarded for gallantry whilst rescuing a crane driver from the sea off Gibraltar on 5th June 2000.

GOBEY
Christopher Stafford

Lt RN

HMS Tamar

13 Dec 1971

QCB

CDO or Ship's Diving Officer? - See below.

QCB awarded for bravery and determination in bringing to safety the entire crew of the Chinese fishing vessel CHUNG Yu, grounded on a reef off the Seychelles on 4th July. Conditions were too bad for even a gemini to approach the reef and it was decided to use the two inflatable life rafts. One of these broke loose and at great risk to himself from drowning and without pausing to inflate his lifejacket, Lieutenant Gobey dived overboard into the heavy, shark-infested surf and retrieved it. He survived only because he is a very strong swimmer and experienced diver.

GRAHAM
John Falconer

CPO(MW) RNR

?

30 Dec 1981

BEM

MW - 

GRATTAN
John

Lt Cdr RN

?

31 May 1968

OBE

MCDO - 

GRIBBEN
Robert

LS
PO

‘P’ Party 1572
HMS Tyne (Korea)

30 Apr 1946
1 Jan 1952

GM
MID

B&MD (Ex-Port Clearance) - GM awarded for great courage, initiative and devotion to duty on 14th March 1945 in recovering an unexploded V1 bomb which had fallen into the Royal Sluice at Antwerp. This difficult operation was finally accomplished after many hours of strenuous work.

MID awarded in recognition of Operational Minesweeping and Bomb and Mine Disposal services New Years Honours 1952.

GRIFFITHS
Nigel Mills

LRO

HMS Tamar

28 Nov 1994

QGM

Ship's Diver - See below.

At 0845 on 15th July 1993, the Hong Kong Clearance Diving Unit were tasked by HMS TAMAR, Operations Room to attend an overturned fishing junk in Victoria Harbour. It was reported that a fifteen year old boy was trapped in the hull and was possibly still alive.

On that morning LRO GRIFFITHS had reported to the Diving Store to undertake continuation training as a Ship's Diver. Together with other members of the Clearance Diving Unit, he was readily available and in position to respond to the call and was on scene ready to dive 14 minutes after receiving the initial call. Despite the situation and lack of formal training in this task, LRO GRIFFITHS never hesitated when asked to volunteer for this potentially dangerous mission.

Once on scene and in the enduing confusion, disregarding the extremely dangerous conditions he faced, LRO GRIFFITHS made dives inside the hull of the vessel in an attempt to locate and rescue the missing boy. He made 2 dives each approximately 30 minutes and entered the upturned vessel no less than 6 times to search various compartments and the wheelhouse. Each entry was more dangerous than the previous one as the condition of the vessel was deteriorating. During this time a response to tapping on the hull was heard. LRO GRIFFITHS showed a great deal of professional ability and selfless regard in this most hazardous and potentially life threatening task, conducted underneath the vessel in imminent danger of sinking, in unfamiliar unstable, cramped flotsam filled compartments and in the very murky waters of Hong Kong harbour.

The swimming conditions were assessed as rough, the waters were oily and polluted and the visibility was less than one foot. Had the vessel sunk with LRO GRIFFITHS still inside he would probably have died. He departed only when ordered to do so immediately prior to the vessel sinking. It is with regret that LRO GRIFFITHS' efforts were to no avail. A body was eventually recovered from the wreck when it was subsequently raised to the surface.

LRO GRIFFITHS conducted himself throughout this dangerous and demanding operation calmly and with confidence. He displayed the utmost courage, selflessness, dedication and bravery and never faltered in his attempt to secure the release of the boy. His action were all the more impressive as he had no formal training in this type of diving task.

PO(D)

HMS Brocklesby

30 Dec 1991

BEM

CD (Later MCDO) - BEM awarded for services during Operation Granby (Iraq).  See below. 

GUNNELL
Brian Thomas (Ben)

CPO(D)

FCDT

8 Oct 1982

MID

CD - MID awarded in recognition of service during operations in the South Atlantic.

GUTTERIDGE
Leslie Gordon

Lt RNR

UCWE Portland

28 May 1957

OBE

CDO - Appointed OBE for gallantry and skill in rendering safe a German mine underwater and in darkness in the West India Dock, London on 26th January 1957.

H

HALEY
Brian (Bill)

CPO(MW)

DGUW(N) Portland

30 Dec 1987

BEM

MW - Naval minewarfare systems applicator.

HALL
Garry John (Nobby)

LS(D)

SDU 2

8 Sep 2006

QGM

CD - QGM awarded for bravery in an Air Sea Rescue in the English Channel on 12 December 2005.  (Search for survivors in capsized Belgian trawler Noordster off Beachy Head.)

HAMMOND
Philip John (Ozzie)

CPO(D)

FDUs A & B

28 Jun 1991

CGM

CD - See below.

CGM awarded in recognition of distinguished service within the operations in the Gulf.  

During Operation Desert Slash, Hammond was the CPO of Fleet Diving Units (FDU) A and B, embarked in RFA Sir Galahad in the Northern Arabian Gulf. He acted as a supervisor of diving operations from Gemini craft in live minefields and of a helicopter-borne Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team. Not content to take a purely directing stance, he willingly put others' safety before his own by taking the leading role on many occasions in protracted night dives on live enemy ground mines to recover them for exploitation. At all times he displayed admirable calmness and great personal courage, working tirelessly to protect and direct his men, thereby instilling great confidence in their minds.

When FDUs A and B moved ashore on 5 March Hammond took a principal part in port recovery and EOD operations. He supervised and participated in the first searches of oil tankers, bunkers and buildings for booby traps, the gruesome task of recovering dead bodies, and the rendering safe of unstable live ordnance, beached mines and Improvised Explosive Devices. All this was done with his men's safety uppermost in his mind, often leading them through areas of anti-personnel mines and barbed wire to reach the objectives. Throughout this extremely dangerous operation he was a focal point of experience among the divers and his measured advice was highly prized by the Officers in Charge of the FDUs.

The conditions under which the Units operated were atrocious. With no infrastructure ashore the men subsisted in cargo containers on a jetty with no light, sanitation or potable water, in an atmosphere heavy with acrid smoke and toxic fumes from the oilfield fires burning inland, and diving in water with zero visibility due to thick oil pollution. All the time they were at risk from random gunfire from uncontrolled factions of the local population. Hammond's deep reserves of personal stamina, his ebullience and mature leadership gave much succour to the young divers in the FDUs.

HARMER
Thomas Paul

CPO(MW)

MCM2

28 Jun 1991

BEM

MW - BEM awarded in recognition of service during the operations in the Gulf.  Staff CPO(MW) embarked in HMS Herald.

HARRIS
Eric Sydney

AB

UCWE Portland

28 May 1957

BEM

CD - BEM awarded for gallantry and skill in rendering safe a German mine underwater and in darkness in the West India Dock, London on 26th January 1957.

HARRISON
Andrew Richard (Harry)

CPO(D)

HMS Tamar

22 May 1992

QCB

CD - QCB awarded for Meritorious Service on 15th August 1991, in the Search and Rescue operation during typhoon "Fred" involving the oil rig support barge DB29.

HARRISON
Michael (Harry)

PO(D)

NP2002

26 Aug 1983

QGM

CD - See below.

During the period 10th to 30th November 1982 a Royal Navy Saturation Deep Diving Team was engaged in salvage operations off the Falkland Islands, in which Petty Officer (Diver) Harrison was instructed to recover items from one of Her Majesty's Ships [HMS Coventry], which had been severely battle damaged. Though working in extremely unpleasant, hazardous and dark conditions, and despite becoming entangled on two separate occasions with hanging debris, Harrison persevered with the task, putting himself at grave personal risk. Throughout the operation he showed the very finest example of skill and courage to his colleagues which inspired a notable success in what was possibly the most dangerous task ever undertaken by a Royal Navy Diving Team. His outstanding professionalism, bravery and total disregard for his own safety were in the highest traditions of the Service.

HAWKINS
Robert Henry (Bob)

Lt Cdr RN

FOST MPV

MBE

MCDO - Appointed MBE in the New Years Honours List 2007 in recognition of service to the Royal Navy (national and foreign MW and Clearance Diving Sea Training), and service to the Youth Community (Scout Association leadership at home and abroad, and Youth Justice volunteer work in Scotland).

HEATLEY
Charles William.

Lt RN

UCWE

28 May 1957

MBE

CDO - Appointed MBE for gallantry and skill in rendering safe a German mine underwater and in darkness in the West India Dock, London on 26th January 1957.

HEWITT
Leonard Brian (Len)

CPO(D)

FCDT

8 Oct 1982

BEM

CD - BEM awarded in recognition of service during operations in the South Atlantic.

HILDESLEY
Timothy Ian (Tim)

?
Cdr RN

?
?

?
30 Dec 1993

MBE
OBE

MCDO - Appointed MBE for liaison services with Egyptian Navy during Operation Rheostat Suez Canal clearance.

HOLROYD
Mark (Ollie)

CPO(D)

SDU1

2000?

QCB

CD - QCB awarded for removal and disposal of unexploded bomb from Mount Batten, Plymouth in August 1998.

HOPEWELL
Gordon (Hoppy)

CPO

HMS Tamar (Hong Kong)

12 Jun 1958

BEM

CD - BEM awarded in Queen's Birthday Honours 1958.

HOSKING
David Blaise

Lt Cdr RN

CINCFLEET

12 Jun 1992

MBE

MCDO - Appointed MBE for services at Fleet HQ during Operation Granby (Iraq).

HOW
Leslie George

Rigger Diver

Portsmouth Dockyard

18 Mar 1975

QCB

Dockyard Diver - QCB awarded for services leading to the rescue of a diver who was trapped underwater by a large block of masonry.

HUMPHREY
Victor John (Vic)

PO(CD1)

FCDT

7 Aug 1973

BEM

CD - BEM awarded for gallantry Malta.  See below.

Chief Petty Officer Bray and Petty Officer Humphrey were the Seconds-in-Command of the two shifts who were working under Lieutenant O'Driscoll during the period 16th October to 11th December 1972. Their coolness both whilst diving themselves and directing the operations of others was instrumental in the success of the highly dangerous operation of removing the bombs from the wreck of the SS Talabot.

The leadership and courage shown by Chief Petty Officer Bray and Petty Officer Humphrey were of the highest order and in the best traditions of the Service.

HURSTHOUSE
Paul Mark

L/A/PO(D)

?

29 Oct 2002

QCB

CD - 

I

IBBOTSON
Richard Jeffrey

Cdr RN (later RAdm)

CO HMS Hurworth

29 Jun 1991

DSC

PWO(U) - DSC awarded in recognition of distinguished service within the operations in the Gulf. See below.

Commander Ibbotson was the Commanding Officer of HMS Hurworth, during Operation Granby.

His ship was tasked with mine countermeasures in the North Persian Gulf in support of Amphibious Operations and Naval Bombardment against Iraqi strongholds in Kuwait.  Operating well up threat he encountered dense areas of mining where both sophisticated ground and buoyant contact mines were present.  Leading from the front and displaying outstanding professional qualities Commander Ibbotson countered the threat, cleared safe transit routes through the mine danger areas and continued clearance operations to within eight miles of the occupied Kuwaiti coastline.  Knowingly operating within enemy missile and coastal artillery range he was, by nature of mine warfare, without a close escort; undaunted by this and despite coming under enemy fire on more than one occasion he pursued the objective with single minded purpose, earning the respect of all Gulf maritime forces in the process.

Commander Ibbotson displayed absolute devotion to duty, fortitude and immense courage in the presence of the enemy.  He conducted himself in the highest traditions of the Service throughout the war.

IRELAND
Philip Charles

Lt Cdr RN

CO HMS Brocklesby

31 Oct 2003

DSC

MCDO - DSC awarded in recognition of gallant and distinguished services whilst on operations in Iraq during the period 19th March to 19th April 2003.

J

JOHNSON
Ralph

LS(D)

FCDT

26 Oct 1989 (to be dated 26 Sep 1989)

QCB

CD - QCB awarded for exceptional courage and skill in assisting in the removal of Seadart missiles from HMS Southampton after a major collision in the Gulf area on 3rd September 1988.

In August 1965, when a ground to air missile was awaiting disposal on a boulder strewn beach with a rapidly rising tide and no possibility of counter mining measures, CPO JONES showed great skill, courage and technical ability in helping in the removal of the missile over the rocks to a position some way up the cliff.  Later in the same month, CPO JONES assisted in the search for and disposal of a 250 lb bomb located under water in the Mull of Kintyre, an operation calling for particular determination and persistence owing to the strong tidal currents in the area, the corroded and unstable state of the bomb and the fact that partial excavation had to take place before it could be successfully countermined. Throughout the entire operation CPO JONES displayed admirable skill and coolness.  

Again in the following January, CPO JONES worked with great coolness and courage during the stripping and rendering safe of an unidentified river mine at South Shields.  Corrosion of certain parts of the mine made this a particularly difficult and hazardous task.

CPO JONES has consistently shown great courage, determination and an outstanding devotion to duty when dealing with unexploded bombs, mines, shells and warheads.

KEARNS
Philip Martin

LS(D)

FCDT

8 Oct 1982

MID

CD - MID awarded in recognition of service during operations in the South Atlantic.

KEMBER
Phillip Charles

AB CD RAN

RAN CDT3 Det 1

23 Feb 1968 (to be dated 22 Feb 1968)

DSM

CD - DSM awarded for gallantry during operational services in Vietnam.

KEMPSELL
Kenneth Douglas (Ken)

Lt RN

SNICDT

26 Nov 1963

GM

CDO - See below.

On 15th August 1963 an explosion occurred in a Torpedo Ready-Use Store killing two men and severely damaging the building. The reinforced concrete roof was brought down upon the ready use stock of torpedoes and warheads, crushing them and activating at least ten batteries so that the whole was in an extremely dangerous condition. It was judged too dangerous to try and remove the torpedoes and warheads from the debris and, on 16th August, Lieutenant Kempsell led the team which placed sixteen demolition charges against the battery compartments of the torpedoes, some of which by this time were hissing and bubbling and were hot to the touch.

Great difficulty was experienced in gaining access to the battery compartments of many of the torpedoes and considerable ingenuity was necessary to get the demolition charges correctly spaced. Lieutenant Kempsell did his work with great skill and courage and his efforts resulted in a most effective demolition operation.

KERR
Edward Gene (Eddie)

CPO(D)

FCDT

30 Dec 1987

QCB

CD - QCB awarded in recognition of bravery during the hazardous rescue operations after the capsize of MV Herald of Free Enterprise off Zeebrugge on the night of 6th March 1987.

KIDMAN
Colin Anthony (Scouse)

WO(D)

FCDT

26 Oct 1989 (to be dated 26 Sep 1989)

QGM

CD - See below.

Warrant Officer (Diver) Kidman planned and executed the removal and destruction of a complete outfit of Seadart missiles from the magazine in HMS SOUTHAMPTON, many of which had been severely damaged following a major collision in the Gulf area on 3rd September 1988.

The impact of the collision had badly distorted and buckled the missile handling arrangements and equipment inside the magazine causing a chaotic jumble of missiles, parts of missiles and their associated movement trolleys and rails. The missiles were in highly unsafe positions; one being split in half, one with its warhead buried in the deckhead and the remainder damaged, distorted and displaced to various degrees. In addition the whole magazine was under water.

Mr. Kidman provided a plan of action enabling each missile to be lifted and moved over the ship's side for deposit into a barge. The plan took three weeks to achieve and during the whole of this period he maintained a calm dignity and composure. The highly dangerous and precarious phase of the removal of the missiles, some of which had to be dismantled underwater before they could be freed from their positions, took a further two weeks. Mr. Kidman then supervised the towing of the barge containing the missiles to a deep water disposal ground. Despite the frightening enormity of the task and risk involved, Mr. Kidman generated enormous confidence in all those who worked for him or had involvement in the proceedings. In tackling the explosive demolitions phase, his selflessness and calculating skill and actions were an inspiration to all, in the knowledge that one small error of judgement or execution could have had catastrophic results. The success of the operation and the safety of the ship and its personnel can be directly attributed to the gallant actions of this humble and dedicated man who demonstrated bravery and leadership of the highest order. 

KING
Derrick George

CPO(CD1)

PCDT

28 Aug 1970

BEM

CD - See below.

Chief Petty Officer King was the senior diving rating of the Plymouth Clearance Diving Team which undertook the extremely hazardous task of clearing unexploded bombs from the wreckage of the S.S. ARNOLD MAERSK.

His long experience as a diver, his staunch personal example coupled with superb seamanship and outstanding leadership, provided the mental as well as the physical security which allowed the divers under his supervision to operate repeatedly in marginal conditions in an extremely hazardous environment. If it had not been for Chief Petty Officer King's unrelenting efforts, it is quite possible that both phases of the operation could have ended in disaster for the whole Clearance Diving Team.

KOONER
Michael David

Lt Cdr RN

OIC NP 1007

30 Dec 1983

MBE

MCDO - Appointed MBE as CO MV Stena Seaspread & OIC NP 2002 during salvage of equipment from HMS Coventry sunk in South Atlantic.

LAUGHTON
Peter

Lt RN

Ops Officer HMS Cromer

31 Oct 2003

MBE

MCDO - Appointed MBE in recognition of gallant and distinguished services whilst on operations in Iraq during the period 19th March to 19th April 2003 especially for his part in the search, recovery and repatriation of aircrew, following the tragic mid-air collision of two Royal Navy Sea King helicopters.

LAWRENCE
Anthony Austin (Lawry)

WO(D)

SDU1

1 Jan 2002

MBE

CD - Appointed MBE in New Year Honours 2002.

LAWRENCE
Charles Leslie (Taff)

Lt RN

HMS Vernon

1 Jan 1957

MBE

CDO - Appointed MBE in New Year Honours 1957 for work as Med Fleet Clearance Diving Officer in Malta.

LEANEY
Michael

Lt Cdr RN

MWC

31 Oct 2003

MBE

MCDO - Appointed MBE in recognition of gallant and distinguished services whilst on operations in Iraq during the period 19th March to 19th April 2003.

LIBBY
Graham John Robert

A/PO(Sonar)(SM)

HMS Conqueror

20 Oct 1982

DSM

Ship's Diver - See below.

DSM awarded in recognition of service during operations in the South Atlantic.

Whilst on patrol north of the Falklands Islands on 25th May 1982 a floating wire aerial trapped round HMS CONQUEROR'S propeller causing cavitation and noise to the detriment of her operational effectiveness.

Acting Petty Officer (Sonar) (SM) Libby volunteered to carry out a dive to free the obstruction. With the submarine surfaced he knew full well that if she were detected by Argentinean aircraft she would possibly have to dive without recovering him. He was also battered by heavy waves, threatening to part his lifeline and sweeping him away. Nonetheless he succeeded in clearing most of the obstruction, after twenty minutes in dark, freezing, and terrifying conditions, enabling HMS CONQUEROR to continue on her patrol unhindered.

Acting Petty Officer (Sonar) (SM) Libby demonstrated a degree of cold, calculated courage and willingness to risk his life for the benefit of his ship far beyond any call of duty.

LILLEY
Geoffrey Graham

CPO(MW) RNR

?

15 Jun 1979

BEM

MW - BEM awarded in Queen's birthday honours 1979.

LIMBRICK
Barry (Blondie)

CPO(D)

NP 2002

10 Jun 1983

BEM

CD - Involved in MV Stena Seaspread salvage of equipment from HMS Coventry in South Atlantic.

LOTT
David (Mona)

PO(CD1) later FCPO(CD1)

AEDU

11 Jun 1966

BEM

CD - BEM awarded for diving work with AEDU in Queen's Birthday Honours 1966.

LOUDON
James Hutcheon (Hamish)

Lt Cdr RN

CINCFLEET

8 Oct 1982

MBE

MCDO - Appointed MBE in recognition of service during operations in the South Atlantic.

LOVELL
Simon Keith (Bernie)

PO(D)

?

31 Oct 2003

QCVS

CD - QCVS awarded in recognition of gallant and distinguished services whilst on operations in Iraq during the period 19th March to 19th April 2003.

LUTER
T.

PO(D)

Far East Fleet CDT

1960?

QCB

CD - Singapore

LUTMAN
Henry John

CPO Stoker

HMS Fierce (M/S HQ Ship)

1 Jan 1952

MID

B&MD - MID awarded in recognition of Operational Minesweeping and Bomb and Mine Disposal services.  Minesweeping in Mediterranean.

LYNCH
James (Jim)

LS(D)

FCDT

26 Oct 1989 (to be dated 26 Sep 1989)

QCB

CD - QCB awarded for exceptional courage and skill in assisting in the removal of Seadart missiles from HMS Southampton after a major collision in the Gulf area on 3rd September 1988.

LYNN
Bruce Geoffrey

CPO(MW) RNR

?

30 Dec 1987

BEM

MW -

MacKAY
Iain Bruce

Lt Cdr RN

CWT

8 Oct 1982

MID

MCDO - MID awarded in recognition of service during operations in the South Atlantic. MCM Staff Officer.

MacRAE-CLIFTON
Julian (Mac)

CPO(CD1)

SNICDT

1 Jul 1969
22 May 1973

QCB
BEM

CD - See below.

QCB awarded for great courage, unusual initiative, cool judgement and exemplary devotion to duty.

Petty Officer Macrae-Clifton served with the Scotland and Northern Ireland Command Explosive Team for four years, during which time he performed many hazardous tasks in an exemplary fashion.  On two occasions, he displayed particular courage, coolness and skill.

On 11th October, 1968, he was required to dispose of a mine which had been sucked into the shoe of the Dutch suction dredger WILHELM STEAD, while operating in the entrance of the river Humber.  Weather conditions were poor, with a gale blowing from the South East.  He started work on board the dredger shortly before midnight and found that the mine was slightly crushed, and held fast in the suction pipe.  He unhesitatingly decided to remove the primer-detonator assembly before attempting to extract the mine.  Having taken the precautions of ensuring that all other personnel were as far away as possible, and that the dredger had boats in the water, he proceeded to render the mine safe.  This involved a long process of carefully cleaning rust and corrosion from the primer-detonator tube, and was finally finished about two hours later.

Chief Petty Officer Macrae-Clifton's decision to render the mine safe before moving it involved great personal risks while minimising the the danger to others, and exemplified his great courage and high sense of duty.

Again, on 3rd December, 1968, he was required to dispose of a mine which had been landed on the Fish Market quay at Peterhead.  The primers and detonator were still fitted, the cast filling was intact but becoming more unstable as the mine dried out.  The prime-carrier had been damaged, and he decided that it was too dangerous to try and render the mine safe where it was.  With assistance from RAF Buchan, he guarded the mine overnight, keeping it damp with rags.  In the morning he accompanied the mine to a disused airfield three miles away and exploded it; the subsequent crater was about thirty feet across and fifteen feet deep.  He had been with the mine for over eighteen hours, a period of increasing danger as the weapon dried out.

In both these incidents, Chief Petty Officer Macrae-Clifton showed great courage, unusual initiative, cool judgement and exemplary devotion to duty.

In recognition of this service, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second has been graciously pleased to award Her Commendation for Brave Conduct to Chief Petty Officer Macrae-Clifton.

BEM awarded for seven years' service in SNICDT

MANSBRIDGE,
Brian James

Lt Cdr RN

SNOME

29 Jun 1991

MBE

MCDO - Appointed MBE in recognition of service within the operations in the Gulf.  RN/USN MCM Staff Liaison Officer on board USS Tripoli when mined.

MARRIOTT
Neil Kenneth

Lt Cdr RN

MCM2

6 Mar 2009

QCVS

MCDO - QCVS awarded in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Iraq during the period 1st April to 30th September 2008.  Chief of Staff to MCM2, the Coalition MCM Forces Commander during Operation TECATE, the mine clearance of coastal waters off Kuwait and Iraq in 2008.

MARSHALL
Stephen Michael (Steve)

Lt RN

OIC FDU A

28 Jun 1991

DSC

MCDO - See below.

DSC awarded in recognition of distinguished service within the operations in the Gulf.

Marshall flew from the United Kingdom to the Arabian Gulf on 29 December 1990, having received eight hours' notice to gather Fleet Diving Unit A (FDU A), of which he is the Officer in Charge, pack the required stores and depart for the airhead. Setting up his Unit at Jebel Ali he organised his men's training for Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) work and supervised the checking of all RN and RFA ships' underwater fittings as they arrived in theatre.

On 24 January 1991, FDU A embarked in RFA Sir Galahad and Marshall took part in the planning for, and trained his Unit for, possible amphibious operations in the Northern Arabian Gulf. During Operation Desert Slash he led FDU A with selflessness and great personal courage, resolutely guiding his men in countermining operations against buoyant and floating mines and supervising protracted dives on ground mines to bring them to the surface for exploitation. He showed conspicuous leadership by putting himself at the forefront of the action on many occasions and, in particular, deploying twice from helicopters to place charges on live buoyant mines. Not content to allow anyone to stand into danger before himself, he tirelessly flew on numerous helicopter sorties as the supervisor of his EOD team to search for mines, frequently within ten miles of the enemy coast.  

Moving ashore to Mina Ash Shuaybah on 5 March, he supervised the setting up of a base camp. Having coordinated plans with American and Australian Units, Marshall led FDU A in searching the harbours and environs of this port, Mina Ash Shuwaykh (Kuwait City) and Faylakah Island, rendering safe unstable live ordnance, beached mines, booby traps and Improvised Explosive Devices, clearing buildings and oil tankers of ordnance and taking on the gruesome task of recovering the bodies of dead Iraqi soldiers and Kuwaitis. Often these jobs required him and his Unit to first reach the scene through areas of anti-personnel mines and barbed wire. Throughout this extremely dangerous operation he showed a calm professionalism and dynamic leadership rarely seen in one of his years, and insisted on taking a fully active part in every aspect of the work.

The conditions under which FDU A operated were atrocious. With no infrastructure ashore the men subsisted in cargo containers on a jetty with no light, sanitation or potable water, in an atmosphere heavy with acrid smoke and toxic fumes from the oilfield fires burning inland, and diving in water with zero visibility due to the thick oil pollution. All the time they were at risk from random gunfire from uncontrolled factions of the local population. That his Unit's morale remained at a consistently buoyant level and that EOD operations were conducted in an eminently professional manner in the face of such adversity is entirely thanks to Marshall's outstanding leadership and remarkable man-management.

MASON
Michael James Sidney (Perry)

L/A/CPO(D)

DEODS

13 Jun 1986

BEM

CD - See below.

Local Acting Chief Chief Petty Officer (Diver) Mason has served a total of 45 months at the Defence Explosive Ordnance Disposal School, initially as a Petty Officer (Diver) instructor and for the past 6 months as the Chief Petty Officer in charge of the School's administration Cell.

Mason has a very small staff, but he has balanced this deficit by working many hours of his off-duty time.  He is a firm and fair disciplinarian, an absolutely loyal and trustworthy subordinate and a credit to the Royal Navy in all his activities. Above all, his calm approach, mature attitude and leadership, both on and off duty, instil confidence in his juniors and earn the respect of his seniors.  He has proved to be an invaluable asset to the School, displaying an organisational ability far beyond what could reasonably be expected of one of his rank and experience.

In his time at the Defence Explosive Ordnance Disposal School, Mason has twice volunteered to carry out classified operational duties of a particularly hazardous nature.  During the most recent mission, Mason was personally responsible for recovering and rendering safe sophisticated items of undocumented explosive ordnance for which it was impossible to provide specific training.  During this time he was required to act independently of his unit and very much on his own initiative.

In one particular incident he placed himself in a hazardous position with respect to a hostile unit in order to obtain valuable close range photographs.  In another incident he risked his life in making safe a device whilst ensuring minimum risk to others.

Under both operational and routine conditions, Mason's performance has been an outstanding example to others and is worthy of public recognition.

MASSIE-TAYLOR
Christopher Gerald

Cdr RN

CINCFLEET

29 Jun 1991

OBE

MCDO - Appointed OBE in recognition of service within the operations in the Gulf.  Staff MCM Cdr at Fleet HQ, Northwood.

McALPINE
Paul Anthony (Paddy)

Lt RN
Cdr RN

HMS Atherstone
CINCFLEET

28 Jun 1991
9 Sep 2006

MID
OBE

MCDO - MID awarded in recognition of service during the operations in the Gulf.

Appointed OBE in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Iraq during the period 1st October 2005 to 21st March 2006.

McFARLANE
John Forsyth

LS(D)

FCDT

28 Jun 1991

MID

CD - MID awarded  in recognition of service during the operations in the Gulf.

McKINLEY
?

CPO(CD1)

FEFCDT

1960?

QCB

CD - Singapore?

MEEKIN
John Anthony

CPO(D)

SDU2

17 Jun 2006

MBE

CD - Appointed MBE in Queen's Birthday Honours 2006.

MERRICK
Neil Laurence

Lt RN

?

?

MBE

MCDO - 

MESSERVY
Peter John

Lt RN

Lt RN

HMS Lochinvar (South Queensferry)

HMS Terror (Singapore)

1 Jan 1958

29 Dec 1959

MBE

GM

CDO - Appointed MBE in New Years Honours 1958.

GM awarded for torpedo disposal underwater - wreck of Japanese submarine, Singapore Roads, Malaya in June 1959.

MORGAN
Peter Thomas

Sub Lt RN

HMS Argonaut

8 Oct 1982

DSC

Ship's Diving Officer - See below.

DSC awarded in recognition of service during operations in the South Atlantic.

On 21st May 1982 Sub Lieutenant Morgan was Officer of the Watch in HMS ARGONAUT when the ship came under intense air attack. Bomb damage put both engines out of action and jammed the rudders when the ship was at full ahead speed, going straight towards and very close to the coastline. Sub Lieutenant Morgan almost certainly saved the ship from going aground by racing to the forecastle with two others to let go an anchor and stop her.

In his capacity as Officer-in-Charge of the Ships Diving Team he led his men on a two day operation to survey and make temporary repairs to bomb damage below the waterline. On two occasions he dived into the flooded forward magazine, in the knowledge that in addition to the hazards posed by twisted and jagged metal, there was an unexploded bomb in the compartment amongst damaged ordnance.

Throughout this dangerous and hectic period Sub Lieutenant Morgan displayed qualities of cool and quick thinking, as well as courage and stamina, in carrying out all his duties.

MORRIS
David Glyn

A/AB(CD^*)

HMS Wilton

31 Dec 1974

BEM

CD - BEM awarded for Op Rheostat Suez clearance.

MOSS
Andrew John 'Mo'

CPO(D)

?

31 Dec 2005

MBE

CD - Appointed MBE in 2006 New Year Honours.

MULRAIN
Worthlyn Anthony (Tony)

CPO(MW)

HMS Atherstone

28 Jun 1991

BEM

MW - BEM awarded in recognition of service during the operations in the Gulf.

MURPHY
James Joseph

Leading Stoker

Portsmouth B&MD Team

13 Jun 1946

BEM

B&MD - BEM awarded for Bomb & Mine Disposal work.

MURRAY
Simon

AB(D)

HMS Hurworth

23 May 1997

QCB

CD - QCB awarded for services in fighting a fire on board HMS Hurworth during May 1996.

NIGHTINGALE
James Ian Robert

Marine RM

?

19 Apr 2002

QCB

Ship's Diver - QCB awarded for his bravery in trying to save a fellow diver off Portsmouth on 5th April 2001.

Lieutenant O'Driscoll was the Officer-in-Charge of the Fleet Clearance Diving Team which was engaged in clearing a large number of unexploded bombs from the wreck of the SS Talbot in Grand Harbour, Malta. The SS Talbot had been bombed and set on fire on 26th March 1942 and because of her dangerous cargo was scuttled. From 16th October to 11th December 1972 the Fleet Clearance Diving Team recovered 73 bombs with a combined weight of 19,500 Ibs. All the bombs were fuzed and heavy corrosion had made them stick together. Many of the bombs were buried in the mud and had to be cleared by water jetting which meant that the divers had to work entirely by touch, visibility being nil. Each bomb had to be broken out individually using a winch and wire strop and up to two tons tension had to be applied to break each bomb out. Once the bombs were brought to the surface they had to be continually hosed down to prevent crystallising and becoming extremely dangerous. The successful completion of this lengthy and highly dangerous operation was due largely to the coolness and courage of Lieutenant O'Driscoll. His determination and leadership were of the very highest order and in the best traditions of the Service.

On 13th December 1990, Warrant Officer Oulds, the assistant Officer-in-Charge Plymouth Clearance Diving Unit, was sent with 4 men to Barry Docks, South Wales, where at 1329 a tug had hooked a stainless steel cylinder on an anchor fluke inside the Dock complex. The object proved to be a Type C German sea mine containing 700kg of high explosives. What were not known nor possible to determine, were the arming and firing arrangements or anti-handling devices, one type of which could have been initiated by a shock to the mine.

At 1700, following evacuation of the area to a half mile radius, Warrant Officer Oulds began the hazardous, complex and delicate operation of slinging the mine from its tenuous vertical to a safe horizontal position to facilitate removal of the anchor and prepare the mine for disposal  At this time it was decided that the least disruptive option for Barry Town was to transport the mine from the docks to sea, using the tug. By 1945 Warrant Officer Oulds had raised the mine above water, separated it from the anchor and prepared it for laying on the sea bed. The tug then sailed to a position 2 miles from Barry Harbour where Warrant Officer Oulds carefully placed the mine on the sea bed in 20 metres of water with a countermining charge attached. At 2200 the mine was successfully detonated by a controlled explosion with minimal ground tremor felt by Barry Town.

Throughout the operation Warrant Officer Oulds remained calm, displaying exceptional qualities of leadership and professional ability, instilling confidence in the men under his command, who were aware at all times of the dangers faced. His courage, stamina and professionalism were of the highest order and in the best traditions of the Service, earning high praise from all authorities involved in the operation.

PADWICK
Alan Thomas John

Cdr RN

HMS Vernon

12 Jun 1993

OBE

MCDO - Appointed OBE in Queen's Birthday Honours 1993.

PARRY
John Jenkyn

Cdr RN

?

30 Dec 1977

OBE

MCDO -

PATTERSON
Donald Victor

AB RCN

HMCS Athabaskan

9 Apr 1965

BEM

Ship's Diver - BEM awarded for gallantry.  See below.

On the occasion of the rescue on 1st March 1964 of thirty-five crew members of SS Amphialos from their sinking ship by HMCS Athabaskan.  Able Seaman Patterson in his capacity as a ship's diver, dived overboard to the aid of a survivor in the water about 70 feet from the ship, and by his efforts, was largely responsible for bringing the man safely aboard. The survivor had been floating in his life-jacket in heavy and oil-infested seas and by the time Patterson reached him was thoroughly exhausted, covered with oil, and helpless. The seas at the time were running from 10 to 14 feet. A short time later Able Seaman Patterson, despite the difficult sea conditions and oil, was again in the water for approximately 25 minutes attempting to guide a life-raft down to the wreck. Throughout the whole of the rescue operation this man displayed personal courage and skill of a high order.

PAUL
Timothy William

Lt RN

HMS Maxton

31 Dec 1974

MBE

MCDO - Appointed MBE for services when CO of HMS Maxton during Operation Rheostat Suez Canal Clearance.

PEAKE
Richard John

A/PO(D)

FDU A

28 Jun 1991

DSM

CD - See below.

DSM awarded in recognition of gallantry during operations in the Gulf.

During Operation Desert Slash, Peake was a member of Fleet Diving Unit A (FDU A) embarked in RFA Sir Galahad in the Northern Arabian Gulf. With no Chief Petty Officer Diver in the Unit he was effectively the Deputy Officer in Charge, a weighty responsibility for an Acting Petty Officer.

Operating as a member of a helicopter-borne Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit, he participated in the countermining of live enemy mines by deploying from a helicopter directly into the water or via a Gemini craft. On two occasions he was called upon to attach countermine charges to buoyant mines, a task he took to with immense courage and resolute will, without thought for his personal safety. Keenly aware that jolting any one of the contact horns on the mines could cause them to explode, killing himself and injuring the rest of his team, he stuck coolly to the task at hand. Indeed on one of the two occasions he displayed outstanding personal gallantry by swimming to a mine in rough seas, thus heightening immeasurably the difficulty of placing the charge without hitting a horn. That he achieved the task completely and professionally is a testament to his stamina and resolve. In addition he undertook without question the very necessary but unpleasant job of recovering the body of a dead Iraqi by strapping the corpse in front of him for hoisting into a helicopter.

Moving ashore on 5th March 1991, FDU A commenced port recovery and EOD operations. Peake was employed in clearing explosives from buildings and oil tankers, rendering safe unstable live ordnance, beached mines, booby traps and Improvised Explosive Devices, and again recovering dead bodies. He performed throughout this operation with enormous credit, always ready for more and always willing to take on the most hazardous tasks.

The conditions under which he operated were atrocious. With no infrastructure ashore FDU A subsisted in cargo containers on a jetty with no light, sanitation or potable water, in an atmosphere heavy with acrid smoke and toxic fumes from the oilfield fires burning inland, and diving in water with zero visibility due to thick oil pollution. All the time the men were at risk from random gunfire from uncontrolled factions of the local population. Peake retained his buoyant enthusiasm and aggressive professionalism despite the awesome adversity, showing dynamic leadership skills way beyond his rate and age and bringing great credit upon himself and the Navy.

PENNINGTON
John

LS(CD2)

FCDT

31 Dec 1974

BEM

CD - BEM awarded for Op Rheostat Suez clearance.

PHILLIPS
Wilfred

CPO(Ops)(MW) RNR

?

10 June 1983

BEM

MW - 

PRIMROSE
William Neil

CPO(D)

HMS Culdrose

30 Dec 1985

BEM

CD - I/C Torpedo Trials Underwater Recovery Unit.

Q

R

RASHLEIGH
Albert Victor

CPO CD RAN

RAN CDT3 Det 5

1 May 1970 (to be dated 30 Apr 1970)

BEM

CD - BEM awarded for operational services in Vietnam.

RAVENHALL
John Steven (YoYo)

AB(D)
PO(D)

?
HMS Ramsey

28 Jun 1991
27 Apr 2004

MID
QCVS

CD - MID awarded in recognition of service during the operations in the Gulf. 

QCVS awarded for helping recover bodies following collision by two Sea Kings from HMS Ark Royal over northern Arabian Gulf 22 Mar 03.

RAWLINS
John Stuart Pepys

?
Surg Lt Cdr RN (Later Surg Vice Admiral Sir John Rawlins KBE FRCP FRAeS)

Various

27 Dec 1960

MBE
OBE

Pioneer of Diving Medicine -

RICKARD
Robin Henry Thomas 'Rick'

CPO(D)

SDU1

7 Mar 2008

QCB

CD - QCB awarded for defuzing German wartime 70kg bomb in middle of housing estate at Cattedown, Plymouth in April 2007.

ROBINSON
Ronald Stephen Colin (Robbie)

Lt Cdr RN

HMS Vernon

?

MBE

CDO - Appointed MBE in late recognition of brave service in LCOCUs at Dieppe and Normandy.  He had originally accepted a battlefield promotion to CPO instead of a decoration.

ROUTLEY
Reginald John Charles

CPO(MW) RNR

?

12 Jun 1992

BEM

MW -

S

SEABROOK
Andrew

A/PO(D)

FDU A

28 Jun 1991

DSM

CD - See below.

DSM awarded in recognition of gallantry during operations in the Gulf.

During Operation Desert Slash, Seabrook was a member of Fleet Diving Unit A (FDU A) embarked in RFA Sir Galahad in the Northern Arabian Gulf. He formed part of a helicopter-borne Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team tasked with the destruction of live enemy buoyant and floating mines.

On no less than five occasions Seabrook deployed from a helicopter to swim to buoyant tethered mines in order to place a countermining charge. On each one he approached the delicate task with a cool nerve and immense personal courage, in the sure knowledge that knocking against one of the contact horns would detonate the mine, killing him instantly and injuring his standby team not far away. He maintained a resolute composure and an iron will throughout each operation, completing them with clear-headed professionalism and scant regard for his own safety. His gallant actions were in the finest traditions of the Royal Navy. In addition, he undertook without quailing the very necessary but unpleasant task of recovering the bodies of two dead Iraqis, strapping the corpses in front of him for hoisting into a helicopter. Moving ashore to Kuwait on 5 March 1991, FDU A commenced port recovery and EOD operations. Seabrook was employed in clearing explosives from buildings and oil tankers, rendering safe unstable live ordnance, beached mines, booby traps and Improvised Explosive devices, and again recovering dead bodies. Frequently he had to cross areas of anti-personnel mines and barbed wire to reach the objectives before work could start. His boldness and vigour permeated through FDU A to produce a closely knit team whose sense of purpose remained focused throughout the operation.

The conditions under which the Unit worked were atrocious. With no infrastructure ashore the men subsisted in cargo containers on a jetty with no light, sanitation or potable water, in an atmosphere heavy with acrid smoke and toxic fumes from the oilfield fires burning inland, and diving in water with zero visibility due to thick oil pollution. All the time there was a risk of random gunfire from uncontrolled factions of the local population. Seabrook's infectious enthusiasm touched every member of FDU A and his outstanding qualities of leadership in the face of appalling adversity contributed much to the spirit of the Unit.

SELWOOD
Dennis Peter

Lt Cdr RN

Lt Cdr RN

OIC WFCDT

CINCFLEET

1 Jan 1970

30 Dec 1987

MBE
OBE

MCDO - Appointed MBE in New Year Honours 1970.

Appointed OBE for services as OIC of CinCFleet's Minewarfare Tactical Development Group (MTGD).

SETTLE
Terrence (Terry)

CPO(D)

FCPO(D)
WO(D)

?

FCDT

FCDT

13 Jun 1980

28 May 1985
31 Dec 1986

BEM

QGM
MBE

CD - QGM awarded for service during ordnance clearance operations in the Gulf of Suez in September 1984.

Appointed MBE for mine recovery Red Sea during Op Harling.

SHAW
Graham John Arthur

Lt RN

?

31 May 1968

OBE

MCDO -

SIMMONDS
Richard Michael

Cdr RN

MCM3

1 Jan 1999

OBE

MCDO - Appointed OBE in New Year Honours 1999.  Commander Third MCM Squadron.

SIMMONS
Raymond Victor

PO

HMS Fierce (M/S HQ Ship)

1 Jan 1952

MID

B&MD - MID awarded in recognition of Operational Minesweeping and Bomb and Mine Disposal services. Minesweeping in Mediterranean.

SLINGSBY
Alfred Frank (Alf)

PO(CD1)
CPO(CD1)

Mediterranean CDT
SNICDT

14 Nov 1967
31 Dec 1974

QCB
BEM

CD - QCB awarded for removing two German 500 lb bombs buried in thick mud in Bighi Bay, Malta.  He used his bare hands to tunnel through the mud beneath the fuzed bombs and enable a lifting wire to be passed through.  The bombs were towed into deep water and exploded.

BEM awarded for service in SNICDT.

SMITH
John Robert (Smudge)

CPO(D) (Formerly WO(D) when in active service)

Fort Bovisand Joint Service Sub Aqua Centre

30 Dec 1996

MBE

CD - 

SMITHARD
Charles Anthony (Charlie)

LS(D)

FCDT

8 Oct 1982

MID

CD - MID awarded in recognition of service during operations in the South Atlantic.

SNELL
Albert Derek

CPO(CD1)

?

29 Dec 1972

BEM

CD - 

SPENCE
Garth William 

LS(D) 

NDG

8 Sep 2005

QCB

CD - QCB awarded for displaying the highest possible levels of professionalism and courage during the operation to recover the crew of the stricken Canadian Submarine HMCS Chicoutimi in atrocious weather conditions in the Atlantic Ocean. 

STEEN
Leonard

Salvage Diver

Rosyth Dockyard

4 Jun 1957

BEM

Salvage Diver

STILL
Peter Frank

CPO(D)

FCDT

30 Dec 1987

QCB

CD - QCB awarded in recognition of bravery during the hazardous rescue operations after the capsize of MV Herald of Free Enterprise off Zeebrugge on the night of 6th March 1987.

STOCKLEY
Pawl Malcolm

WO(MW)

DSOO MCM3

11 Jun 2005

MBE

MW - Appointed MBE in Queen's Birthday Honours 2005.

STODDART
John Jamieson Oberg

LS(D)

HMS Tamar

22 May 1992

QCB

CD - QCB awarded for Meritorious Service on 15th August 1991, in the Search and Rescue operation during typhoon "Fred" involving the oil rig support barge DB29.

T

TERRELL
Mark

Lt Cdr RN

UCWE Portland

28 May 1957

MBE

CDO - Appointed MBE for gallantry and skill in rendering safe a German mine underwater and in darkness in the West India Dock, London on 26th January 1957.

THOMPSON
Anthony Savour

LS(D)

FCDT

8 Oct 1982

MID

CD - MID awarded in recognition of service during operations in the South Atlantic.

THORNILEY
William (Bill)

Lt Cdr RN

HMS Brearley

13 Jun 1959

MBE

MCDO - Appointed MBE for clearance diving work on a controlled minefield (torpedo warheads) in Belfast Lough.  The job was completed a couple of years later by the Home Station CDT in HMS Dingley (Harry Parker) to allow the channel to be dredged in time for the new CANBERRA to put to sea.

TROTTER
Graham Michael (Piggy)

CPO(D)

FCDT 3

1982

DSM

CD -  See below.

DSM awarded in recognition of service during operations in the South Atlantic.

On 28th May 1982, Chief Petty Officer (Diver) Trotter and Fleet Clearance Diving Team 3 were tasked to deal with an unexploded bomb on board RFA SIR LANCELOT. The bomb was awkwardly located in the film store amongst a great deal of debris which had to be cleared before removal operations could take place. The removal operation was further complicated by the need to cut away metal, the lack of strong points in the superstructure, lack of craneage and in the. final stage by fierce squalls which hindered sheer-leg manoeuvring. Notwithstanding these major problems, this difficult and complex operation was completed by 1000Z on 29th May when the bomb was lowered to the sea-bed.

The team displayed courage and determination of the highest order in overcoming all the difficulties to achieve the successful completion of this task and continuing operations despite a high level bombing raid. As the leader, Chief Petty Officer (Diver) Trotter provided the drive and resourcefulness which were essential factors required for this difficult and dangerous task.

TROUNSON
Timothy William (Tim)

Lt Cdr RN

CO HMS Wilton

31 Dec 1974

MBE

MCDO - Appointed MBE for services when CO of HMS Wilton during Operation Rheostat Suez Canal Clearance.

U

V

VICKERS
Michael

CPO(MW)

?

12 Jun 1981

BEM

MW -

W

WALTON
David

AB(D)

FCDT

8 Oct 1982

MID

CD - MID awarded in recognition of service during operations in the South Atlantic.

WARNER
Sydney Alfred (Jackie)

Lt RN
Lt Cdr RN

HM S/M Tally Ho
HMS Vernon

11 Apr 1944
1 Jan 1967

DSC
MBE

MCDO - DSC awarded for outstanding courage, skill and devotion to duty in successful patrols in one of HM Submarines.  Torpedo Officer of Tally Ho which sank Japanese cruiser Kuma on 11 January 1944 and Japanese submarine IT 23 on 15 Feb 1944.

Appointed MBE for underwater explosive ordnance disposal.

WATT
Anthony James Landon (Tony)

Cdr RN

CO HMS Montrose

1 Jan 2007

OBE

MCDO - Appointed OBE in New Year's Honours 2007.

Lt Cdr RN

Capt RN

CO HMS Dulverton

RN Liaison Team, Iraq

28 Jun 1991

24 Mar 2006

MID

US Bronze Star Medal

CD - MID awarded in recognition of service during the operations in the Gulf.  Later promoted to Captain and appointed Captain Mine Warfare and Patrol Vessels, Diving and Fishery Protection (CMFP).

US Bronze Star Medal awarded for services while Head of UK RN Liaison Team rebuilding Iraq Navy.

WHITE
Jason Paul

Lt RN

SDU 2

8 Sep 2006

QGM

MCDO - QGM awarded for bravery in an Air Sea Rescue in the English Channel on 12 December 2005.  (Search for survivors in capsized Belgian trawler Noordster off Beachy Head.)

WHITE (now BALINK-WHITE)
Philip Arthur 

Lt RN

HMS Phoenicia (Malta)

1 Jan 1958

MBE

CDO - Appointed MBE in New Year Honours 1958.  Later promoted to Cdr and became SofD.

WHITE
Robert Wallis (Bob)

Lt Cdr RN

FCDT

31 Dec 1974

MBE

MCDO - Appointed MBE for services as OIC of FCDT during Op Rheostat Suez Canal clearance.

WHITTON
Arnold James Burden

LS

HMS Phoenicia (Malta)

12 Jun 1958

BEM

CD - BEM awarded in Queen's Birthday Honours 1958.

WILD
Stephen

Lt Cdr RN

PCDT

15 Jun 1992

QCB

MCDO - QCB awarded in recognition of valuable services leading to the successful removal of a Type C German sea mine from Barry Docks, South Wales on 13th December 1990.

WILLIAMS
Anthony Peter

Lt RN

OIC FDU B

28 Jun 1991

DSC

MCDO - See below.

DSC awarded in recognition of distinguished service within the operations in the Gulf.

Williams arrived in the Northern Arabian Gulf on 1 February 1991 as Deputy Officer in Charge of Fleet Diving Unit B (FDU B). He moved into action immediately, co-ordinating training, refining techniques on new equipment, establishing an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) cell and overseeing inspections for Improvised Explosive Devices (lEDs) in ships of the RN Task Group as they arrived in Bahrain.

During hostilities Williams was the supervisor of an airborne EOD team and of diving operations from Gemini craft, spending many hours in helicopters in the front line of Naval operations, often within ten miles of the enemy coast. Insisting on putting himself in the way of danger before his men, he showed remarkable courage and stamina by leading personally on countermining sorties, placing charges on live buoyant mines and diving for protracted periods, often at night, on live ground mines in order to bring them to the surface for exploitation. In addition he conducted the unenviable task of recovering dead bodies from the sea into helicopters. He led a team of two men on an inspection of HMS Gloucester to search for a mine reportedly entangled in her propeller shafts. 

Moving ashore on 5 March to Mina Ash Shuaybah he took over as Officer In Charge of FDU B. He established a base camp and helped co-ordinate EOD operations with American and Australian Units for clearing the ports of Mina Al Ahmadi, Mina Al Dohah and Faylakah Island. The work involved rendering safe unstable live ordnance, beached mines, booby traps and lEDs, clearing buildings and oil tankers of ordnance and collecting dead bodies from the harbour waters. Often these jobs required him and his team to first reach the scene through areas of anti-personnel mines and barbed wire. Throughout this extremely dangerous operation he showed an implacable professionalism and positive leadership which was beyond his experience. At all times his men saw him in the leading role, tirelessly taking on the most hazardous tasks himself.

The conditions under which FDU B operated were atrocious. With no infrastructure ashore the men lived in cargo containers on a jetty with no light, sanitation or potable water, in an atmosphere heavy with acrid smoke and toxic fumes from the oilfield fires burning inland, and diving in water with zero visibility due to the thick oil pollution. All the time they were at risk from random gunfire from uncontrolled factions of the local population. Williams's conspicuous leadership, resolute professionalism and boundless energy ensured that his Unit's effectiveness remained at peak levels from start to finish and that his men's morale was of the highest order in the face of dire adversity.

WILSON
Charles Dominick (Charlie)

Cdr RN

?

16 Jun 2001

OBE

MCDO - 

WILSON
Graham John (Tug)

Lt RN

SofD

15 Jun 2002

MBE

MCDO -

WILSON
John Keith

Lt Cdr RN

PCDT

28 Aug 1970

MBE

MCDO - See below.

In August 1969, the wartime wreck of the S.S. ARNOLD MAERSK was found lying submerged, in 55 feet of water, off the Grimes aux Dardes reef, 11 miles south west of St. Helier, Jersey and barely a mile from the houses and hotels on Normoint Point. Survey revealed that the vessel's cargo of German 1000 lb. bombs was scattered in profusion, under and around the wreck and shrouded by kelp. It was appreciated that there was a real possibility of accidental detonation of up to 50,000 Ibs of explosive with all the consequent effect of shock and blast over a wide and densely populated area. Accordingly, the Lieutenant Governor of Jersey requested Naval assistance.

The Plymouth Clearance Diving Team, commanded by Lieutenant Commander Wilson, commenced Phase I of this dispersal operation on 20th August 1969. The severe danger of the task immediately became apparent. Tides ran strongly at 4 knots in the area concerned and diving was only possible for up to one hour at low water and for 40 minutes at high water slack. Bombs were located in the wreck and found to be not only in a highly unstable and fragile condition but also covered by a thin spray of iron picrate exuding from the primers. This latter is a most volatile substance, extremely dangerous and subject to detonation by slight percussion or even temperature variation. Under Lieutenant Commander Wilson's guidance, some 23 bombs were individually raised from the wreck in these conditions, lifted aboard the diving vessel, removed to a safe distance, sunk and detonated. Because of gales and adverse conditions, this phase of the operation took some 5 weeks of most expert diving, cool headedness and complete devotion to duty by the whole of the Plymouth Clearance Diving Team. Nevertheless, a survey at the end of this phase showed that 15 effective bombs still remained in the ARNOLD MAERSK.

The Jersey authorities were informed of this situation and after taking advice from the Superintendent, Naval Construction Research Establishment, the Global Seismology Unit, Edinburgh University and Lieutenant Commander Wilson, it was agreed that these remaining 15 bombs should be disposed of by countermining in situ within the wreck.

Phase II took place in January 1970 and demanded the placing of charges, firing systems and sinkers actually within the hold which was scarred with jagged twisted sharp metal, all of which was very dangerous in itself to divers, notwithstanding the effect of the bombs. The operation took place in an area which was completely exposed to south westerly gales and had a heavy ground swell running over it, even during periods of otherwise calm weather.

During the two phases of this operation, Lieutenant Commander Wilson led his team with great determination, skill and personal example of the highest order. Both phases were carried out in very difficult diving conditions with considerable risks even with no explosives around. While the explosives were being removed, the conditions were even more hazardous. Lieutenant Commander Wilson displayed great personal courage and bravery and there was no task which he did not undertake personally. His team, inspired by his example, successfully achieved a most hazardous bomb disposal task.

WITHERELL
William Charles

CPO(CD1)
CPO(CD1)

FCDT
FCDT

17 Mar 1967
31 May 1968

QCB 
BEM

CD - QCB awarded for brave conduct in recognition of their great skill and courage when removing a highly dangerous 250 kg high explosive bomb from the river Avon at Bristol on 1st April 1966.

WOOKEY
George Alan Morley

Senior Commissioned Boatswain (Later Lt RN)

HMS Reclaim

13 Jun 1957

MBE

QDD - Appointed MBE in Queen's Birthday Honours 1957. Dived from HMS Reclaim in Sor Fjord, Norway 12th October 1956 and set a new world deep diving record of 600 feet.

X

Y

Z