Crew list of Ships hit by U-boats
William Walker
Merchant Navy (993142). British
| Born | 1899 | Lochee, Scotland | |
| Died | Dec 1976 | (77) | Penarth, South Wales |
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Roster information listed for William Walker
| Ship | Type | Rank / role | Attacked on | Boat | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Fort Halkett | Steam merchant | Master | 6 Aug 1943 | U-185 |
Personal information
William Walker was in command of the Ocean Freedom in the ill-fated convoy PQ-17 in July 1942. The ship was later bombed and sunk by German aircraft at Murmansk on 13 March 1943.
Award Citation for Distinguished Service Order (DSO) as published in London Gazette on 29 September 1942:
For fortitude, seamanship and endurance in taking Merchantmen to North Russia through heavy seas and in the face of relentless attacks by enemy aircraft and submarines.
Award Citation for Lloyd’s War Medal for Bravery at Sea:
The ship was proceeding in convoy to a North Russian port. Captain Walker showed outstanding bravery and skill during several heavy attacks with torpedoes and bombs, and although she suffered damage from a near miss and in an ice field, he saved his valuable ship and cargo. In one attack the Master was wounded in the hip by a bomb splinter. The ship’s guns destroyed one aircraft and damaged others.