Almost 70 years after their courage turned the course of World War Two, veterans of the treacherous Arctic convoys were publicly acknowledged in Northampton today.
Eight veterans and several families of other deceased sailors, who have finally received the Arctic Star from the Government, gathered in the Great Hall at the Guildhall this afternoon.
They were Raymond Smith, Eric Wills, David Whitehead, Rear Admiral J O Roberts CB, Harry Lovell, Arthur ‘Ron’ Green, a Mr Walters and Eric Prigmore.
They were thanked for their extreme bravery by several politicians, while Tory MP for South Northamptonshire Andrea Leadsom offered her apologies for the long delay.
Ray Smith, from Westone, whose daughter’s letter to the Chron started the calls for the Northamptonshire veterans to be recognised, said: “It’s a very emotional day for me, to finally be acknowledged.
“I’m very pleased with what they have done for us in Northampton.
“I’ve been in touch with Arctic Star veterans in other parts of the country and they have been quite impressed with what’s been laid on for us here.”
The heroes braved several return journeys on different ships or submarines, protecting vitally important fuel and weapons from German U-boats.
Although the enemy was dangerous enough, the waves were some of the roughest on earth and the weather was so cold that a sailor falling overboard would freeze to death almost instantly.
Prime Minister at the time Winston Churchill called the convoys “the worst journey in the world”.
But their efforts ensured Russia stayed in the war and split Adolf Hitler’s forces on two fronts.
Accordingly, the veterans have each received several medals from the Russian Government, although until this year - by post - none from their own country.
Edward Rose, from Duston, son of former Royal Marine Frank Rose, who died aged 94 just weeks before the future award of a medal was announced said: “I think its a great occasion. He would have loved it and he would have known lots of the people here.”
Michael Ellis, MP for Northampton South, said: “The reality is they have had to wait for too long and that is a real shame for those who have passed away.
“But their families can take great pride in the service they gave.”