Arctic Convoy veterans will receive bravery awards soon
ARCTIC Convoy veterans of the Second World War will begin receiving awards to recognise their bravery within the next few weeks, the Ministry of Defence has announced.
Around 3000 seamen died over four years from 1941 while transporting supplies to the Soviet ports of Murmansk and Archangel during the war.
The mission to keep the supply lines open was described by Winston Churchill as the “worst journey in the world”.
But survivors’ efforts to receive formal recognition were repeatedly rebuffed over many years, on the grounds of protocol.
Only about 200 veterans are thought to still be alive, and in December they won their long fight for recognition.
Production of the Arctic Star and Bomber Command clasp will begin this week and those who served on the Arctic Convoys and in Bomber Command, and widows, will receive the awards from March.
Scottish Secretary Michael Moore said: “The bravery and dedication of those who sailed with the Russian convoys deserve this recognition.
“The medal is a fitting way to mark the danger and conditions our servicemen experienced during this essential period in our history and their part in defending our country.”
Veterans Minister Keith Brown said: “These brave men made an immeasurable contribution to the Allied forces’ efforts.”