Auction Catalogue

16 December 2003

Starting at 10:00 AM

.

Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Grand Connaught Rooms  61 - 65 Great Queen St  London  WC2B 5DA

Lot

№ 901

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16 December 2003

Hammer Price:
£5,200

A fine D-Day landings D.S.M. awarded to Able Seaman William Nertney, Royal Navy, for gallantry on ‘Sword’ beach

Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (A.B. W. Nertney, D/JX.365692) in its original case of issue, extremely fine and a rare award actually won on the beaches £3000-4000

D.S.M. London Gazette 14 November 1944: ‘For gallantry, skill, determination and undaunted devotion to duty during the landing of Allied Forces on the coast of Normandy.’

The recommendation states: ‘Able Seaman William Nertney, D/JX.365692, L.C.I.(L) 104, “A” Landing Craft Infantry (Large) Squadron.

When LCI(L) 104 beached on SWORD in the assault Able Seaman Nertney by his coolness and initiative under fire played a very large part in keeping up morale of the soldiers. He took the lifelines ashore though the beach was still mined and very much obstructed. He was instrumental in saving five soldiers from drowning, and remained at his lifeline for 80 minutes until all the men were ashore. This despite bombing and continued mortar fire, which he entirely disregarded.’

The Squadron Officer further noted, ‘Rating did splendidly also at Salerno, and Sicily and Pantellaria before that. Most deserving.’