S-a-1331 - Suggested Decorations for Captain Williams & John Johnstone, 1942
This file compiles communications and extracts concerning proposals for official recognition of key personnel involved in the Niagara salvage. The file includes extracts from a Governor’s interview, cables exchanged between banking authorities and government offices, and internal commentary from the High Commissioner and the Prime Minister’s Office on the question of whether honours beyond monetary reward were warranted. The material records the Governor’s recommendation that Captain Williams and Chief Diver Johnstone deserved special recognition in view of the risks undertaken and their leadership during the operation, with preliminary support indicated by the High Commissioner.  Correspondence notes that the Prime Minister and United Kingdom authorities did not consider formal decorations necessary beyond payments already made, and that further pursuit of honours might not be productive. Draft cables and copies of communications to the Bank of England and other overseas contacts are included, together with concise summaries of official opinion.