Orders, Decorations and Medals

A Second World War D.S.C. group of seven attributed to Midshipman M. J. Hunter, R.N.R., H.M.S. Moonstone, for the capture of the Italian submarine Galileo Galilei in July 1940

Distinguished Service Cross, G.VI.R., the reverse dated 1940; 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star, clasp, France & Germany; Africa Star; Burma Star, clasp, Pacific; War Medal; Royal Naval Reserve Decoration, G.VI.R., the reverse officially dated ‘1946’, and with E.II.R. long service bar, mounted as worn, together with companion set of seven miniatures, the R.N.R. Decoration with two bars, good very fine (14) £500-600

D.S.C. London Gazette 22 November 1940: ‘For daring, enterprise and skill in capturing the Italian Submarine Galileo Galilei.’

The report of Boatswain W. J. H. Moorman, commanding the armed trawler Moonstone states: ‘Of my ship’s company, all showed calmness and steadiness under fire, but the success of the action in my opinion depended on the following officer and ratings. My second in command, Midshipman M. J. Hunter, R.N.R., who ensured supply parties were kept going, and also getting sniping party under way.’ Sold with copies of the official action reports and recommendations for awards. Midshipman Hunter is shown in the Navy List for 1970 with the rank of Commander and appears to be the only officer with this combination of awards.