ROBERT WILLIAM WAKEFIELD
Robert William Wakefield was born 13th June 1922 in Jarrow Durham a former worker in the Rubber Factory.
He was an Ordinary Seaman in the Royal Navy aboard H.M.S. Achates and died on Thursday 31st December 1942 aged 20.
Service Number: C/JX 353131
HMS Achates was in action with German Armoured Ship LUTZOW and German cruiser HIPPER, escorted by five destroyers which attacked JW5 IB during passage. (Operation REGENBOGEN). During provision of smoke screen to protect convoy ship hit by 11-inch shellfire which caused major damage with many casualties. Main armament disabled. Towing was attempt by HM Trawler NORTHERN GEM failed when ship rolled over and sank in position
73.03N 03.42E.
Only 91 of the ships company were rescued.
Bata Record
26.02.43
