Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A fine ‘Second War’ G.M. and Lloyd’s Medal for Saving Life at Sea pair awarded to Boatswain M. McCarthy, Mercantile Marine, for his gallantry in going to the rescue of a badly burned seaman following an explosion in the S.S. Baron Ruthven, on 29 June 1943

George Medal, G.VI.R., 1st issue (Michael Mc.Carthy) on original mounting pin; Lloyd’s Medal for Saving Life at Sea, 2nd small type, silver (Boatswain Michael McCarthy, S.S. “Baron Ruthven:, 29th. June 1943.) in case of issue, minor edge nick to first, otherwise extremely fine (2) £2,400-£2,800

G.M. London Gazette 2 May 1944: Michael McCarthy, Boatswain, Merchant Navy.
‘When the ship was approaching port, a section of the hatch covers of the forward hold was opened up and Boatswain McCarthy and an Able Seaman went below to get the mooring ropes on deck. While the seaman remained below McCarthy came on deck to heave them up. Almost immediately there was an explosion due to the ignition of an explosive mixture of coal gas in the hold. A sheet of flame from the hatch set fire to the tarpaulins on deck. Although this fire was promptly smothered and the remainder of the hatch covers removed, the hold was still full of smoke and the seaman below could be heard calling for help. In spite of the grave risks of further explosions and fire, McCarthy secured a rope ladder and descended into the hold. He carried the very dazed and badly burned seaman to where those on deck were able to bend down and light him to safety. McCarthy, without thought of self, displayed bravery of a very high order in this gallant rescue of a shipmate.’

The citation for the award of the Lloyd’s Medal for Saving Life at Sea is almost identical, but contains the added information that the action occurred on 29 June 1943; and that the Able Seaman was severely burned and died the same night.