A 93-year-old war veteran has received the Artic Star Medal at special ceremony at HMS Raleigh in Torpoint today.
Royal Marines musician Eric Greenleaf was presented with the long-awaited medal in recognition for his part in the Artic Convoys.
"I never thought we would get this medal," he said.
"There are only about 200 of us left, but at last we've got it."
Having joined the Royal Naval School of Music at the tender age of 14 years and eight months, he completed 15 Arctic Convoys on board ships tasked with protecting merchant shipping delivering vital supplies to the Soviet Union during World War 2.
Throughout the journeys there was a constant threat of German U-boats, aircraft and extreme cold, which meant that anyone entering the water would die in minutes.
Today, accompanied by his friend David McDonald, Mr Greenleaf received his medal in front of his successors in the Band Service at HMS Raleigh.
The veteran, who grew up on the Barbican in Plymouth, said he was honoured.
"Coming from this part of the country, it's an honour to be presented with the medal in front of my friends in the Band. They have been so kind to me and my friend David, and have treated us like gentlemen. They too are gentlemen," he said.
"I will take these memories to my grave and as time marches on, I hope one day when I'm up in heaven that I will be looking down upon them."
Mr Greenleaf received the medal from Rear Admiral Henry Parker, Director Carrier Strike and Controller of the Navy, who was the VIP inspecting officer during the centre's passing out parade.
The veteran was also presented with a framed photograph showing him playing with the Band during a visit to HMS Cumberland by His Majesty King George VI.
Captain Richard Long, director of music of the Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines Plymouth, said: "It is truly an honour for the Royal Marines Band Plymouth, both collectively and individually, to be present on parade for the presentation of the Arctic Star Medal to Eric Greenleaf.
"The Royal Marines Band Service honours its fallen comrades every year at the annual memorial weekend and the fact that veterans like Eric still keep the names of those lost in the Second World War on his person proves the relevancy of our remembrance today.
"Eric had an extraordinary career in the Royal Marines and his experiences during World War 2 are awe inspiring. We could not be more proud in being given the opportunity of providing ceremonial musical support on this special day to such a valued member of the Royal Marines' family."
