Post by USHAKOV UPDATE on Aug 6, 2016 16:22:05 GMT
Russian medal for veteran of deadly wartime Arctic Convoys
A seaman who braved some of the most dangerous missions of World War Two has received a medal from the Russian Government.
Alan Gray, from Hindley, served on the deadly Arctic Convoys which kept the Soviet Union supplied and has now been recognised with the Ushakov Medal.
The convoys were described by Winston Churchill as “the worst journey in the world”, with crews braving constant attacks from German U-boats and aircraft as well as freezing temperatures as they escorted supplies to Russian ports.
Mr Gray, 90, has rarely spoken about his wartime experiences but his daughter Ann Harrison said he joined the war effort aged just 18, having joined the navy following his upbringing in Liverpool.