Previous Lot Next Lot

Auction: 23001 - Orders, Decorations and Medals
Lot: 335

An unusual King's Commendation for Brave Conduct and Lloyd's Medal for Bravery awarded to Private K. Cavanaugh, East Yorkshire Regiment, a D.E.M.S. Gunner aboard the Oud Beijerland, who selflessly remained on his Lewis Gun when his vessel came under enemy attack, despite being riddled with enemy cannon-shell, he remained at his post and drove away the attack but succumbed to his wounds

1939-45 Star; War Medal 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaves; Lloyds Medal for Bravery at Sea, circular Silver Medal (Private Kenneth Cavanaugh, M.V. "Oud Beijerland" 27 March 1941.), mounted on its original pin and in its case of issue, good very fine (3)

King’s Commendation for Brave Conduct London Gazette 16 June 1941:

'The ship was attacked by enemy aircraft with cannon-shell. Much damage was done. A Gunner who had opened fire immediately with his Lewis Gun, was badly wounded in two places. Although his gun position on the well-deck was unprotected, he continued firing with great gallantry. His action helped to save the vessel from total loss. The Gunner afterwards died of wounds.'

Kenneth Cavanugh, a native of Hull, was educated at Selby Street West School and worked on the Hull fish dock. Having maried Muriel before the outbreak of the Second World War he was serving with the East Yorkshire Regiment and was transferred to serve with the Defensively Equipped Merchant Ship Oud Beijerland in early 1941. Having earned his two awards but lost his life, he was buried in the Hull Western Cemetery. On the third anniversary of his death, his widow left the poignant notice in the Hull Daily Mail;

'In loving memory of a dearly-beloved husband. In memory I see him just the same; As long as I live I shall treasure his name. Deep in my heart he is living yet; I loved him too dearly to ever forget - Loving wife Muriel. Baby Kenneth. Worthy of everlasting remembrance.'

Subject to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium. For more information please view Terms and Conditions for Buyers.

Sold for
£1,400

Starting price
£1300