Battle of North Cape war veteran's medal for bravery The Arctic convoys of World War II kept supplies flowing through German blockades to the former Soviet Union. John Edwards, from Abercynon in the Cynon Valley, was part of the dangerous missions. They served in the Battle of North Cape, the naval battle which broke out on 26 December 1943 as part of the Arctic campaign. Mr Edwards has been awarded a medal in recognition of his bravery 70 years later.