A Second War ‘Normandy Landings’ D.S.M. group of five awarded to Able Seaman R. Urwin, Royal Navy, for his outstanding torpedo duty in action in the British Assault Area in June 1944

Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (A.B. R. Urwin. C/JX 162355); 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Pacific Star; War Medal 1939-45, contact marks, good very fine (5) £1,000-£1,400

D.S.M. London Gazette 6 March 1945:
‘For skilful leadership and initiative in protecting the British Assault Area whilst serving in H.M.S. Retalick.’

Ronald Urwin served during the Second World War as an Able Seaman in the patrol and escort frigate H.M.S. Retalick, and was awarded his Distinguished Service Medal for outstanding torpedo duty in action during the Normandy invasion in June 1944, when Retalick was responsible for the sinking of at least one enemy midget submarine. He was invested with his D.S.M. at Buckingham Palace on 8 May 1945.