The Escape of the 2nd MTB Flotilla

Midshipman Christiansen was serving as a Cadet in a ship of Jardine, Matheson and company. When his ship was scuttled  he volunteered for service with the Royal Navy.  He was one of the crew of the Gatling when she was bombed and sunk with many casualties, on 16 December. In spite of this severe ordeal he continued to volunteer for service.

On 25 Dec he volunteered to man the motorboat which took off Admiral Chan’s party.  He was one of the survivors who reached Aberdeen Island by swimming, and later his prompt action in swimming off to the MTBs (who were on the verge of  leaving for Sandy Bay) did much to ensure the safe escape of his companions.

I consider Mr Christiansen to be a young gentleman of outstanding courage and would recommend he be granted a commission in theRoyal Naval Volunteer Reserve.- Commander H M Montague R.N.

 

 

 

Back: Supt Bill Robinson I.P., W. O. William M Wright HKRNVR, Capt Peter Macmillan R.A.,Capt Reginold Guest 1st Mdsx, Coxswain Yeung Chuen CN, Ted Ross B.M.I.

2nd: David MacDougall B.M.I., Admiral Chan Chak CN, Major Arthur Goring Probyns Horse, Sq-Ldr Max Oxford RAF.

1st: Holgar Christiansen MN, Lt-Cmdr Henry Heng Hsu CN.

 

Holgar was Mentioned in Despatches For skilful and courageous services which enabled a party to make a daring escape from Hongkong. [ 2646 SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 16 JUNE, 1942]