Distinguished Service Cross awarded to Tommy Cain
Date made: 1917
Description: Tommy Cain was a fisherman from Port Erin. Upon the outbreak of the First World War he volunteered to join the Royal Navy, and was posted to Q-Ships. These heavily armed warships were disguised as merchantmen, and tried to lure German U-boats in to attack them, before opening fire. Cain took part in the sinking of five U-boats, and for this feat he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross. This was personally presented to him at Buckingham Palace, by HM King George V. Awards and decorations such as this were an important way of maintaining morale, and of recognising bravery in the face of the enemy.
Object name: medal
Collection: Social History Collection
ID Number: L22787