Morris Richard Ellis AM

b. 18/07/1927 Preston, Lancashire . d. 04/07/1950 at sea off Gibraltar.

DATE OF AM ACTION: 04/07/1950 at sea off Gibraltar.

Morris R Ellis AM

Morris was born in Preston, Lancashire in 1927, but it appears that he was raised by his grandparents in Holyhead, Anglesey, Wales. He was educated at Kingsland School and later the Cybi School. He was a member of the Sea Cadets and a telegram boy at the Post Office in Holyhead before joining the Royal Fleet Auxiliary.

 

AM CITATION:

On the 4th July, 1950, during tank cleaning on board R.F.A. WAVE COMMANDER, the Boatswain entered/ No. 6 tank to complete cleaning by hose. The nozzle dropped from the hose into the tank and the Boatswain descended to try to locate it. He was three-quarters of the way up the ladder when he was overcome by gas. Able Seaman Ellis immediately went to his assistance and managed to lash the Boatswain to the ladder with a rope passed down to him. Able Seaman Ellis, who was well aware of the danger and risk involved, was himself overcome by gas, lost Eis grip of the ladder and fell to the bottom of the tank and was killed. Able Seaman Ellis gave his life to save the Boatswain and largely through his prompt action the Boatswain was brought on deck and recovered.

 

BURIAL LOCATION: NORTH CEMETERY, GIBRALTAR.

LOCATION OF MEDAL: PRIVATELY HELD.

Acknowledgement:

Terry Hissey – Image of Morris Ellis AM’s Grave in North Cemetery, Gibraltar.