TNA ADM 199 792

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(11) a number of ratings who are outstanding above their
fellows, but whose service in this Operation, though
meritorious or gallant, 18 not up to that exceptional
standard displayed by the other ratings who remain in
List "A".
Were it not for the general practice of strictly
limiting decorations and "mentions" in Naval operations, this
artificial division of the roll into Lists 'A' and 'B' would
not have been undertaken, and it is hoped that Their Lordships
will see fit to adopt the recommendations for List 'B' as if
it were part of List 'A'.
4.
It is true to say that every officer and man
mentioned in List 'A' compiled from a close study of more than
350 separate written reports, earned recognition for gallant
service time and time again during the Operation. In compiling
the list, normal standards for judging conduct in face of the
enemy have had to be set aside and to gain a place in List 'A',
instances of gallantry had to be accompanied by other meritor-
ious service, BL in as conspicuous endurance and unremitting
devotion to duty over a prolonged period, and/or exceptional
display of initiative and judgment.
Similarly, the majority of those individuals
recommended for "mention" would, in any normal operation or
engagement have been justifiebly recommended for, and awarded,
a decoration.
5.
The number of officers and men (including military
and civilian Junteers) directly employed afloat, ashore on
the Flanders coast, or controlling, directing or serving in
the base organisations supporting the Operation, is estimated
at 19,000; of these more than 1,700 were officers.
List "A" contains the names of -
224 officers,
446 men.
Of these, recommendations are made for:-
315 for decoration,
345 for mention,
10 for advancement.
List 'B' contains the namesof -
100 officers,
103 men,
all of whom are recommended for mention.
Having regard to the unique conditions of service
attached to this Operation, the proportion of officers and men
recommended for recognition out of the total number involved
is considered to be fair, and in fact, to be low.
Admiralty Letter C.W. (undated, but about 15th June)
was received too late for its contents to be brought to the
notice of Commanding Officers concerned, but I suggest, in any
case, that its terms are hardly applicable to an Operation of
this nature in which there were so many deeds of daring, whose
representation/