British and World Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

An M.B.E. and Lloyd’s War Medal for Bravery at Sea group of six awarded to Second Engineer Officer Edward Langan for services when the S.S. Yorkwood was sunk by the U-507 off the coast of South America in January 1943

The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, M.B.E. (Civil) Member’s 2nd type breast badge; 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Italy Star; War Medal; Lloyd’s War Medal for Bravery at Sea (Second Engineer Officer Edward Langan, S.S. “Yorkwood” 8th January 1943) court mounted for display, nearly extremely fine (6) £1400-1800

M.B.E. (Civil) London Gazette 2 May 1944:

‘Edward Langan, Esq., Second Engineer Officer.

The ship, sailing alone, was torpedoed and sank within seven minutes.

When the ship was hit the Second Engineer Officer went alone to the flooded and steam filled engine-room to rescue one of the personnel who was injured and trapped. After wrapping him in a hammock Mr Langan carried him on deck. This courageous action, undertaken without thought of personal safety, undoubtedly saved the disabled seaman, although, unfortunately, he was so badly injured that subsequently died.’

Lloyd’s War Medal for Bravery at Sea, Lloyd’s List & Shipping Gazette Not published.