These are some of the stories of the people of Coastal Forces from two world wars. Most were ridiculously young. They achieved greatness, usually as part of a TEAM. The crew of a ship is like a theatre company: everyone has a specific task. If the lighting person falls asleep, the audience can’t see. The make-up artists transform the actors into make-believe. Without the front of house, you won’t find your seat.

So it is with a ship – particularly a small ship. Everyone is critical to the mission. Click on the images below to read about ordinary people doing extraordinary things.

Captain Augustus Agar VC DSO RN

Lieutenant Commander Robert Hichens DSO* DSC** RNVR

Able Seaman William Savage VC

Commander Robert Ryder VC RN

Lieutenant Commander Peter Scott DSC* MBE RNVR

The Women’s Royal Naval Service