Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A S.G.M. pair awarded to Stoker Petty Officer John Picker, Royal Naval Reserve, late Greaser, S.S. Monmouth

Sea Gallantry Medal, G.V.R., silver, (John Picker “Evelyn” 30th November 1913); Royal Naval Reserve L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue (U.1221 J. Picker, Sto. P.O., R.N.R.) second with edge bruising, nearly very fine (2) £320-360

On 26 November 1913, the brig Evelyn, of Carnarvon, whilst on a voyage from Beavertown, Newfoundland to Glasgow, was in distress in the North Atlantic Ocean. In response to signals of distress the steamship Invergyle, of Glasgow, bore down on the Evelyn, but owing to the heavy sea she was unable at the time to render any assistance and could only stand by until daylight. Next morning a lifeboat was launched from the Invergyle and with difficulty three members of Evelyn’s crew were rescued; her captain, mate and a seaman elected to stay on board.

On the evening of 30 November, the steamship Monmouth, of Liverpool, approached the derelict Evelyn and launched a lifeboat. Again with much difficulty, the remaining three men on board were rescued; the Evelyn was then abandoned in a sinking condition.

Silver Medals for Gallantry were awarded to five officers and men of the Invergyle and to eight officers and men of the Monmouth. With some copied research.