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My Father's Journey on the Russian Convoys

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posted on 2024-06-05, 19:13 authored by Their Finest Hour Project Team

My mum used to say that Dad was on the Russian convoys. We always knew he was on HMS Harrier, which was a mine sweeper, as we've since found out that he was on the Russian convoys of winter 1943/44. My brother said he spoke highly of Commander Jay, and we've since got his initials - A. D. H. Jay. We think he was a Commander.

They weren't recognised at the time, but approximately five years ago they were recognised and we have now got his Arctic Stars. My dad didn't speak of it to me, but he might have chatted to John, my brother.

Dad was in a reserved occupation and didn't have to go. It wasn't good for his mental health - he suffered in later years and his experiences couldn't have helped him.

History

Person the story/items relate to

Ernest George Payne Commander A.D.H. Jay

Person who shared the story/items

Janet Mary King

Relationship between the subject of the story and its contributor

Ernest George Payne is the contributor's father.

Type of submission

Shared at Medway Archives Centre, Kent on 8 November 2023.

Record ID

96347 | MED003