Previous Lot Next Lot

Auction: 25112 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 639

The 'H.M.T. Aisne Action of 20 June 1918' D.S.M. awarded to Bosun S. Garland, Royal Naval Reserve, late Merchant Navy, for taking charge of the trawler's gun in the absence of its commander during an attack upon a German Submarine

Distinguished Service Medal, G.V.R. (11024. S. Garland, Bosn. "Aisne" Atlantic. 20 June. 1918.), minor contact wear and edge bruise, overall very fine

D.S.M. London Gazette 5 October 1918, the original recommendation (ADM116/1565/HC1), states:

'HMT Aisne Attack on German submarine by Icelandic Fishing Section No. 2 20 June 1918. Displayed great coolness and during the temporary absence of Deck Hand Sydney Beck (Trawler Gunner) took charge and kept gun in action.'

Sidney Garland was born at Hull on 15 May 1892, the son of Almond and Charlotte Garland of Walcott Street, Hull. He was serving with the Merchant Navy during the early stages of the war before enrolling with the Royal Naval Reserve on 5 June 1918, being posted to the trawler Aisne that same month.

This vessel was part of No.2 Icelandic Fishing Section made up of six fishing vessels which were returning to port with holds full of fish on 20 June 1918. They came under attack by a German Submarine, U53, aboard Aisne the Deck Hand responsible for the gun was unable to keep to his post. Garland rose to the occasion, taking charge of the gun he brought it into action and kept it working until the Gunner returned and the U-boat was driven off.

U53 was claimed as sunk however it does not appear to have been, Aisne was damaged during the action and at least one member of the crew was killed in action. Garland does not appear to have remained with the Reserve later than 1919.

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

Sold for
£500

Starting price
£420