A Second World War ‘Operation Torch’ D.S.M. group of seven awarded to Petty Officer Telegraphist W. J. Criddle, Royal Navy

Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (J.112248 P.O. Tel.); 1939-45 Star; Atlantic star; Africa Star, clasp, North Africa 1942-43; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45; Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., G.VI.R., 1st issue (J.112248 P.O. Tel., H.M.S. Royal Arthur), mounted as worn, good very fine (7) £1200-1500

D.S.M. London Gazette 16 March 1943. ‘For bravery and skill in the hazardous operations in which the Allied Forces were landed in North Africa’.

Petty Officer Telegraphist Walter John Criddle, R.N., gained the D.S.M. whilst serving on H.M.S. Bulolo, during Operation Torch - the invasion of North Africa.

The Burns Philp Shipping Company’s ship, the M.V. Bululo, was converted to an Armed Merchant Cruiser in 1940 and was engaged in convoy escort duties carrying troops and supplies between N. & S. America and Britain. In April 1942 she was converted to a landing Ship Headquarters (L.S.H.). She was utilised in both the North African and Normandy landings.