Battle of the River Plate
 

Today marks the 75th anniversary, of what was to be the first big navel battle of WW2, when three royal navel ships came face to face with the German pocket battleship Graf Spee.
Accrington man and St Oswald old boy James "Jimmy" McGarry was a engine room articifer on HMS Exeter one of the navel ships. The Exeter was badly damage in the battle, and many of Jimmy's mates were either killed or wounded. Although Jimmy was not a big man he stood tall that day. We cannot remember the wording of Jimmy's citation, but would think it may be in the library or Observer archives, but Jimmy was awarded the DSM (Distinguished Service Medal) for his heroics that day. The DSM was awarded for " Set an example of bravery or resource under fire". He received a VIP invitation when the film had it's premier in Manchester.
After the war, Jimmy lived in the Willows Lane area of Accrington. He was a member of both the Stephenson Memorial WMC and Sacred Heart Catholic Club.
We are not sure the year he passed away.

Re: Battle of the River Plate
 

There is a death recorded on FMP for James McGarry in 1983 registered in Blackburn. If it is the same person, then he was born on 6/4/1905. I cannot find anymore deaths for him in the area.

Re: Battle of the River Plate
 

I have a painting of the battle by Donald Swan FRSA, well known marine artist with pictures in leading exhibitions, that I can send you by Email if you wish Also copy at £35 plus P&P. But look on my website oldschoolgallery first. Frank