South Atlantic 1982, with replacement rosette (MEM (M) 2 A W Archer D191654F HMS Antrim) in named card box of issue, extremely fine £500-£700

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The James Fox Collection of Naval Awards.

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Dix Noonan Webb, March 2010.

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 and 21 May of the same year, 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.