South Atlantic 1982, with rosette (S(S) S W Marriott D188208B HMS Antrim) nearly extremely fine £500-£700

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, A Collection of South Atlantic Medals.

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H.M.S. Antrim, a County-class Destroyer launched in 1967, served during the Falklands War under the command of Captain B. G. Young, D.S.O. As part of the advance-guard sent South, she served as flag-ship and played a prominent role in Operation Paraquet, the recapture of South Georgia in April 1982, and assisted in the movement of S.A.S. troops.

Between 20-21 May Antrim led the Naval Forces in the Falkland Sound during the amphibious landings. At this time she was hit by a 1,000lb bomb delivered by a Dagger fighter-bomber. The bomb struck the flight deck, gashed two missiles in the magazine and came to rest in the Seaman’s After Heads, without exploding. In further attacks by Daggers she was sprayed with 30mm. shells causing two serious casualties. After 10 fraught hours the unexploded bomb was dealt with by C.P.O. Michael Fellows of the Fleet Clearance Diving Team - an action that was to earn him the D.S.C.

As a result of the damage sustained the Antrim reverted to escort duties for the remainder of the campaign.