Distinguished Service Order GVR; 1914-15 Star (LT.COMMR. C.C. BELL. R.N.); British War Medal (COMMR. C.C. BELL. R.N.); Victory Medal (COMMR. C.C. BELL. R.N.); 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; War Medal 1939-45 - unnamed as awarded with medal ribbon bar
Charles Courtenay Bell had a long and distinguished naval career. He was born in Mansfield, Derbyshire in 1883 and joined the Royal Navy as a Boy in 1898. His promotion was rapid and he was a Sub Lieutenant in 1902 and a Lt Commander by 1905.
He saw extensive service in WWI and beyond and was, from 26.09.1920 - 14.10.1921, the Commanding Officer, HMS Sherborne (twin-screw minesweeper) & Senior Officer, Minesweeping Flotilla & Mine Clearance Officer, Galloper Shoal Area. From 15.10.1921 to late 1922 he was attached to the Local Defence Division, Admiralty
He took a break from the RN to go chicken farming in Sussex from 1923 until being recalled to the Navy with the outbreak of war in 1939/1940. One of his first postings was as Commanding Officer of HMS Moreton Bay (armed merchant cruiser) from 12.09.1941. This was followed by appointments as Commanding Officer, HMS Derbyshire (armed merchant cruiser) on 01.06.1942; Commanding Officer, HMS Nemo (auxiliary patrol base, Brightlingsea) & as Naval Officer-in-Charge Brightlingsea in 1942/43 and as Commanding Officer, HMS Corfu (armed merchant cruiser) in April 1944.
He was honoured for Services in the Mine Clearance Force between the 1st January and 30th June, 1919- The KING (is) pleased to approve of the award of the following honours, decorations and medals to the undermentioned Officers and Men: To be Companions of the Distinguished Service Order: - Cdr. Charles Courtenay Bell, R.N.
He died on 12 August 1966
Medals are in good condition unless indicated otherwise. Sold together with copied research.
