Arctic Convoy survivor Douglas Turtle, DSM and Bar, was presented with the of Medal of Ushakov. Picture by Laura Holme.
PICTURE GALLERY
AN Isle of Wight-born hero of the Second World War earned a standing ovation after he won a special medal for his valour in the Arctic convoys at this year’s Lord Lieutenant’s awards — an accolade he dedicated to the thousands who died on those missions.
Harold 'Doug’ Turtle, of St Vincent’s residential home for ex-servicemen, Ryde, received the coveted Medal of Ushakov from the Russian Federation — an award that marks the 90 year old’s role in the treacherous supply missions to the Soviet Union.
Mr Turtle, one of the last survivors of HMS King George V — one of two British vessels to hunt down and sink the German battleship, Bismarck — said he was very proud to receive the medal, but still feels betrayed by the government that a medal was not awarded to those who took part in the Russian convoys.
Mr Turtle, who was mentioned in dispatches and received the Distinguished Service Medal for bravery, said: "I dedicate this medal to the many who lost their lives on the convoys. I went on at least five convoy missions and I was lucky to come back alive.
"I wouldn’t have received the medal had it not been for WCdr (retd) John Turner, chairman of the Island branch of the SSAFA, who wrote to the Russian ambassador."
The awards, which recognise the outstanding achievements of Island individuals and groups, were presented at a ceremony at the Royal Yacht Squadron, Cowes.
Among other award winners was Kelvin Wright, an Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service watch manager, who received the Chief Fire Officer’s Commendation for his efforts in raising more than £140,000 for charities in mainly cycling events, such as the Square 2 Square challenge.
Maj Gen White presented badges to his newly inaugurated cadets for the year — ACdt Daniel King, Cdt FSgt Samantha Reed and Cdt Cpl Scott Wheeler.
• Full list of award winners in the Friday, October 12, County Press.
Reporter: jonm@iwcpmail.co.uk
• Pictures from our online gallery www.iwcpgallery.co.uk below.
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