| Citation: | Italy. Citation for BEM: On the 30th June, 1945, whilst a heavy and treacherous sea was running at a bathing beach near NAPLES, a person swimming about 75 yards off-shore was seen to be in difficulties. Sergeant Dew, who was present on the beach, realising that the chances of the person saving himself were remote, immediately undressed and swam out towards him. Before he could reach the spot, however, the man had disappeared. At the same time two other swimmmers were also to be seen in difficulties. Sergeant Dew at onec swam towards them and succeeded in reaching one man, who he conveyed to shallow water, where other resucers took the man ashore. Sergeant Dew then returned to the heavy seas and succeeded in rescuing the other man, who by this time was on the point of drowning. Sergeant Drew's action was most commendable, and although he is a very strong swimmer, the state of the sea, with its dangerous under currents, was a severe test, and his prompt and gallant action undoubtedly saved the lives of the two rescued Italian Soldiers. National Arichve WO 373/69 Pt.2. |
