A Malta Convoy D.S.M. group of five awarded to Stoker 1st Class Peter Devereaux, H.M.S. Lively, killed when his ship was sunk by enemy aircraft in May 1942

Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (KX.117566 Sto.1); 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Africa Star; War Medal, initial corrected on the first, otherwise nearly extremely fine (5) £600-700

D.S.M. London Gazette 8 September 1942: ‘For gallantry, skill and seamanship in H.M. Ships... Lively... in a brilliant action against strong enemy forces, which were driven off and severely damaged. This action resulted in the safe passage to Malta of an important convoy.’

The following recommendation is taken from Admiralty records: Malta Convoy 22 March 1942 ‘Stoker Devereaux carried out the duties of Engineer Officers Messenger with untiring zeal and coolness, thereby giving an inspiring lead to others. He repeatedly entered the Watchkeepers Messdeck (of which the forward bulkhead was holed to an already flooded compartment) and kept the suction strainer of the portable pump cleared, incurring considerable personal risk in doing this.’

Stoker Peter Devereauk was killed in action when H.M.S. Lively was sunk in the Mediterranean on 11 May 1942. On that afternoon a division of destroyers consisting of Lively, Lt. Cdr. W. F. E. Hussey, D.S.O., D.S.C., Jackal, Jervis and Kipling, was patrolling between Crete and Libya when it was attacked by German aircraft. The Lively was hit while steaming at full speed and turned over and sank in four minutes, taking with her Lt. Cdr. Hussey and 64 ratings. The remainder of her company were picked up by Jervis and Kipling. The only ship of the division to escape was Jervis, Kipling and Jackal both sinking from bomb hits later in the day. The total loss of life in this action was three officers and 95 ratings. Sold with further research.