Bill Cheeney 1924 – 2006

 

WILLIAM HERBERT CHEENEY C.G.M.

 

Bill passed away peacefully on October 11th 2006 in hospital while on holiday in IBIZA (Spain).

Much loved husband to Mary and devoted Dad to Sheila and Roger.

He was a member of St. Margaret’s bowling club and formerly with Corah’s bowling club for many years.

Bill was awarded the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal in 1944 – read the extract from the London Gazette 22/12/1944.

 

Mr W H Cheeney CGM

 

CHEENEY P/MX 124844 Leading Motor Mechanic William, Herbert, LCS (L) 260, Royal Navy.

“For gallantry, determination and devotion to duty in the assault and capture of the Island of Watcheren”.

On 1st November 1944, during the assault on Westkapelle LCS (L) 260 received a direct

shell hit in the wing petrol tank which

penetrated to and caused a fire in the engine

room. Leading Motor Mechanic Cheeney

succeeded alone in getting the engine room fire

under control with extinguishers, but could not

get near the tank compartment hatch owing to

the heat. When another craft came alongside to

assist, Cheeney had a hose rigged from her, and

sitting from outboard in the shell-hole in the

ship’s side, fought and put our the fire.

Undeterred by the knowledge that petrol

remained on board, he saved his ship by his

very gallant action.

 

LONDON GAZETTE 22.12.1944