Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A scarce ‘E.II.R.’ Sea Gallantry Medal awarded to Malcolm Smith, Mate of the steam trawler Hassett, for his bravery in saving the lives of his vessel’s crew when she was stranded on the rocks at Aukergill, near Wick, Scotland, 18 September 1953

Sea Gallantry Medal, E.II.R., bronze (Malcolm Smith, 18th September 1953.) in Royal Mint case of issue, nearly extremely fine £1,000-£1,400

Malcolm Smith, the Mate of the steam trawler Hassett, was the only member of the crew awarded the Sea Gallantry Medal when his vessel broke over the rocks at Aukergill, near Wick, Scotland:

‘Just before 1am on 18 September 1953, the steam trawler Hassett (349 tons, built 1929), of Grimsby, stranded on the rocks at Aukergill, near Wick, Scotland, and remained heeled over with heavy seas breaking over her. The skipper was injured and five members of the crew were washed overboard. The ship’s lifeboat was smashed on the rocks when an attempt was made to launch it, and the Wick lifeboat was unable to get close enough to effect a rescue. Mr Smith took charge and with the help of Wireless Operator Bovill and Deckhand Almond, kept up the morale of the crew until it was possible to start rescue operations from the shore at dawn. Mr Smith then showed great courage and resource when supported by Wireless Operator Bovill and Deckhand Almond, he secured one of the rocket lines fired from the shore, by climbing on to the wheelhouse roof in spite of the heavy seas which were continually breaking over it. By this time many of the crew were in a state of exhaustion and had to be helped in to the breeches buoy. Mr Smith sent most of them ashore, including the Skipper, before he himself went. All those who were still on board when the rescue started were brought safely ashore, and it was due to Mr Smith’s courage and initiative and the able assistance rendered by Wireless Operator Bovill and Deckhand Almond that many more lives were not lost. The Wick lifeboat stood by the vessel and landed a body. ’ (The Sea Gallantry Medal, by R. J. Scarlett refers).

Smith was presented with his Medal by H.M. Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace on 15 March 1955.

Sold with photocopies of press cuttings, and photographic images of recipient.