PONTEFRACT IN 1945

9th March 1945
PONTEFRACT MAN RECEIVES 
DISTINGUISHED SERVICE MEDAL FROM KING

Leading Wireless Telegraphist Barrett, the younger son of Mr. [‘Gunner’] and Mrs T. Barrett, West Avenue, has received his decoration from the King at an Investiture at Buckingham Palace. The official citation read: "For courage, leadership and determination while serving in a small ship in a gallant action in enemy coastal waters, on the night of the 30th of April - 1st May 1943." Leading Telegraphist Barrett was accompanied at the investiture by his parents. The King, after decorating him, asked where he had won the award, and commented, "Well Done!"

The circumstances were related in ‘The Express’ on 8th October 1943. Barratt’s Ship encountered four heavily armed German escort vessels; sinking one, setting two on fire, and attacking the fourth. The Captain was killed outright, the first lieutenant fatally wounded, and the coxswain received twenty shrapnel wounds in the back. Two gunners were killed, and four or five others wounded. Leading Telegraphist Barratt took command of the ship, and brought it to port. He was on leave last weekend.

All correspondence should be addressed to:
Michael Norfolk, The Digest, 21 Bassett Close, Selby, North Yorkshire, YO8 9XG. Tel: 01757 706845