Police and Navy Unite In Uniform

Fri, 14 March 2008 Courtesy of: Gwent Police

Police in Newport, Gwent will meet up with uniformed Naval officers today to remember a submarine crew who died at sea during World War II.

The meeting will take place at 11am at the monument at the rear of the Riverfront Theatre, Newport, on the riverbank near The Wave.

The monument is the black cast capstan, on the walkway.

A low-key ceremony, which will last around 30 minutes, will take place to commemorate Newport born 'Tubby' Linton VC and the crew of HMS Turbulent, who died in the Mediterranean Sea in May 1943 (see background notes below).

Newport Naval Association organised the event, which will be attended by10 crew of the present HMS Turbulent, led by Lt Commander Dan Clark, and Newport Central Neighbourhood Policing team, led by Inspector Chris Watts.

Insp Watts said:
"We're always happy to welcome members of the armed forces to Newport City Centre.

It's an honour to remember such a war hero as Commander John Wallace Linton who received the Victoria Cross, the highest honour for bravery that the country can bestow."

What the armed forces wear in public has been at the centre of much debate in recent weeks, but Newport's police superintendent Julian Knight offered his full support to the Navy representatives wearing their uniform in Newport.

"We are proud to be associated with all uniformed services, recognising their role in protecting our communities and allowing the continuance of our democratic society," said Supt Knight. "It is important that such events remind younger generations of the sacrifice made by so many to protect our freedom."

Background Notes:
Commander JOHN WALLACE LINTON VC, DSO, DSC
Remembered with honour

From the outbreak of the war in 1939 to May 1943 which was the month of HMS Turbulent's last patrol in the Mediterranean, Commander Linton was responsible for sinking approximately 100,000 tons of enemy shipping, including a cruiser, a destroyer, a U-boat and 28 other ships.

In addition Turbulent destroyed three trains by gunfire. In his last year Commander Linton spent 254 days at sea, submerged for nearly half the time. His ship was hunted 13 times and had 250 depth charges aimed at her.

Sadly, HMS Turbulent did not survive the war and was sunk on 12 March 1943 during her 13th patrol. None of the 59 ship's company survived. During her short but violent career her Commanding Officer, Commander John Wallace Linton DSO, DSC was awarded the Victoria Cross and the submarine was awarded the battle honour "Mediterranean 1942".