Navy snub (From Barry And District News)

Navy snub

MAY I comment on the remarks made by Public Relations Officer for the Barry Branch of the Merchant Navy Association, John Wells, after being snubbed by Westminster over the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal?

He said it was hurtful and disrespectful. Does he not realise this is a reiteration of the attitude adopted by the government in the early days of the Second World War.

John Wells states: "We had a Royal Navy escort wherever we went. What luxury - many seaman sailed in ships that could not keep up with the convoy and were consequently wished "Good luck, you're on your own." Convoys could not slow down to accommodate stragglers.

The merchant ships were armed, mainly because of the terrific losses sustained. And merchant seamen took gunnery courses to learn how to use them.

The Merchant Service suffered losses greater than any of the armed services. John Wells says: "Just to show how much our sacrifices meant, we would appreciate one medal to display in each branch."

No self respecting former seaman would contemplate accepting a medal after the initial refusal by Westminster. I say, stop whinging, throw the insult back at them. Boycott the golden jubilee celebrations.

Mick Moore Chairman KSAG Evelyn Street Barry