Orders, Decorations and Medals

South Atlantic 1982, with small rosette (Ck S J Roche D176311N HMS Plymouth) in its named card box of issue, good very fine £350-400

H.M.S. Plymouth took a very active part in the Falklands War and at an early stage took part in the recapture of South Georgia, the surrender document being signed in her Wardroom. She was used for Naval Gunfire Support, Air Defence and Anti-Submarine Patrol during the operation to liberate the Falklands themselves.

On 8 June H.M.S. Plymouth came under heavy air attack and was hit by 30mm cannon-fire and four 1,000lb bombs while in support of an action ashore. None of the bombs exploded but one of the ship’s own depth charges was set off during the attack and much of the damage was caused by the fire which started as a result. The ship sailed out of San Carlos Water under her own steam and repairs were carried out away from the action area by the Support Ship Stena Seaspread. H.M.S. Plymouth was back in action less than three days later.

Sean Joseph Roche was born at Gosforth, Northumberland, on 20 November 1961, and was a trainee baker before joining the Royal Navy’s catering branch on 27 February 1979. He was discharged with the rate of Cook (Caterer) ‘physically unfit for naval service’ on 10 February 1992. Sold with copy R.N. Certificate of Service and album of 10 photographs showing battle damage after the attack of 8 June.