Tributes to hero of Arctic convoys.

A MERSEYSIDE war hero who took part in the Arctic convoys has died.

Royal Naval veteran Benjamin Hall, 92, from Knotty Ash, was belatedly honoured with the Arctic Star Medal last year for his role in the dangerous Second World War missions.

He served on four Arctic convoys in 1944 as an aircraft handler on the escort carriers HMS Tracker and HMS Atheling, protecting convoys to the USSR.

PROUD: Benjamin For decades, official recognition of the service given by Mr Hall and many others was blocked due to the Cold War.

However, following Russian premier Vladimir Putin's visit to London, the UK government created the Arctic Star last December and was urged to act quickly because of the advancing age and ill-health of many veterans.

In July last year, Mr Hall and wife Eileen were joined by 27 members of their family to see him receive the new Arctic Star medal from the Lord Mayor, Cllr Gary Millar.

Cllr Millar said he was shocked at news of the death and paid tribute to an amazing man. He added: Liverpool and the UK owes this Knotty Ash hero an enormous debt of gratitude and the least I can do as Lord Mayor is fly our Town Hall flag at half mast."

Hall " Mr Hall's daughter, Pam O'Prey, said: "Our lovely dad would be so honoured at the flag being flown at half-mast at the Town Hall.

CAPTION(S):

PROUD: Benjamin Hall

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Publication:	Liverpool Echo (Liverpool, England)
Geographic Code:	0ARCT
Date:	Jun 4, 2014
Words:	240
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