A Second World War withdrawal from France 1940 D.S.M. pair awarded to Able Seaman W. Patience, Merchant Navy

Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (W. Patience, A.B., H.M.T. Cameo); Naval General Service 1915-62, 1 clasp, Palestine 1945-48 (W. Patience), one or two edge bruises, otherwise good very fine (2) £800-1000

D.S.M. London Gazette 27 August 1940: ‘For good services during the withdrawal of Allied troops from the French coast.’

William Patience was decorated for his services in H.M. Transport Cameo during “Operation Cycle”, a mission that included the evacuation of troops from Veules. Both Cameo’s Master and Mate were decorated for the same operation, their respective recommendations citing ‘determination under fire’ when using the ship’s lifeboats to evacuate ‘many soldiers’ at Veules, and there can be little doubt that Patience was among those who crewed these boats under such perilous circumstances. He received his award at an investiture held on 30 March 1943.