Five: Captain C. S. Miller, Royal Navy, recommended for early promotion for his services at the battle of Jutland, 31 May 1916

1914-15 Star (Mid., R.N.); British War and Victory Medals, M.I.D. oakleaf (Lieut., R.N.); Defence and War Medals, unnamed, good very fine (5) £160-200

Lieutenant Cecil Spurstow Miller was born on 25 August 1895, the son of Admiral F. S. Miller, C.B. Entering the Royal Navy, he was appointed Acting Sub-Lieutenant on H.M.S. New Zealand in January 1915. He was soon in action, being present at the battle of Dogger Bank, 24 January 1915. Transferring to the battlecruiser H.M.S. Princess Royal in July 1915, he was confirmed in his rank in November the same year. Sub-Lieutenant Miller served aboard the Princess Royal at the Battle of Jutland, 31 May 1916 and was recommended for early promotion (London Gazette 15 September 1916) -

‘In command of the 4-inch guns’ crews, most of whom were killed or wounded. Sub-Lieutenant Miller, himself badly injured and burnt by shell-fire, stuck to his work, reorganised what was left, and set a fine example.’

Miller, still serving on the Princess Royal, was promoted to Acting Lieutenant in February 1917. From June 1917 until after the end of the war he served on the battlecruiser H.M.S. Australia. Gaining the rank of Lieutenant-Commander in August 1924, he was placed on the Retired List with the rank of Commander in 1938; was appointed Acting Inspector of Naval Ordnance, Manchester in January 1940 and was granted the acting rank of Captain in July 1940.

With copied gazette extract and service papers.

For his father’s medals, see lot 891.