Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Second World War Coastal Forces D.S.M. group of five awarded to Stoker Joseph Richards, Royal Navy, for services in M.G.B. 91 in an action with E-boats off the Dutch coast in March 1942

Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (K.60419 J. Richards, Sto. 1) impressed naming; 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; War Medal; Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., G.VI.R., 1st issue (K.60419 Sto. 1, H.M.S. Drake) contact marks and edge bruising, otherwise nearly very fine (5) £800-1000

D.S.M. London Gazette 5 May 1942: ‘For courage, skill and seamanship in action against the enemy while serving in H.M. Motor Gunboats.’

The recommendation for immediate award of decoration states: ‘H.M.M.G.B. 91. Joseph Richards, Devonport KX60419, Stoker 1st Class. During an action with E-boats on the morning of 15th March 1942 Stoker Richards was wounded in the arm and back, but despite his wounds he assisted the Motor Mechanic in holding one defective engine in gear, and when the fuel pipes in the starboard engine were carried away by a shell, he assisted in stopping leaks with his fingers, ignoring his undressed wounds. His determination and devotion to duty was largely instrumental in allowing H.M.M.G.B. 91 to finish her action and return to harbour.’