ON THE SEA.

Taihape Daily Times, 31 August 1918, Page 5

ON THE SEA.

THE BLOCKING OF OSTtND. NAVAL HEROES DECORATED. , LONDON, August 28. The list of awards in connection with, the blocking of Ostend on May 9th include 'three Victoria Crosses, viz.— Lieutenant-Commander Drummond, in charge of a motor launch, despite three severe wounds, navigated a seriously damaged boat and tooK W. lurty of the Vindictive's crew, some of 'whom were killed during embarkation. Lieutenant-Commander Bourke, who was in charge of a motor launch, engaged the enemy guns with a Lewis gun, after withdrawing heard cries. He re-entered the harbour and rescued three' wounded men clinging to a skiff. The launch was hit in fifty-six places, the missiles including a sixinch shell.

Lieutenant Victor Crutchley, wTfo assumed command of the Vindictive after KTs superior officers were put out of action, and manoeuvred the Vindictive into position, did not leave until he had thoroughly searched with an electric torch for survivors. He assumed command of Drummond's motor launch when the latter collapsed owing to wounds, and kept her afloat by bailing out.

Captain Benn, a member of the House of Commons, has been appointed Commander of the Bath.

Catpain Ernest "Wigram has been appointed a Companion of St. Michael and St. George for gallant conduct during the Ostend action.