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Click here to subscribeThree: Corporal G. Robinson, 12th (Service) Battalion, Suffolk Regiment (East Anglian), later 19th (County of London) Battalion (St. Pancras), London Regiment British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D oak leaves (203346 Cpl. G. Robinson. Suff. R.); Territorial Force War Medal 1914-19 (203346 Cpl. G. Robinson. Suff. R.) suspension slack on last, polished, nearly very fine (3) £100-£140 --- M.I.D. unconfirmed.
Four: Private F. W. A. Minns, Suffolk Regiment, late Royal Sussex Regiment British War and Victory Medals (24011 Pte. F. W. Minns. R. Suss. R.); India General Service 1908-35, 1 clasp, Waziristan 1921-24 (5820316 Pte. F. W. A. Minns. Suff. R.); Defence Medal, mounted for wear, generally good very fine (4) £100-£140 --- Frederick Walter A. Minns initially served during the Great War with the 1/4th Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment, before transferring to the Suffolk Regiment.
Three: Admiral J. R. Veitch, Royal Navy, who, as a 13 year old Mate, was severely wounded in the face at the storming of Acre in 1840 Naval General Service 1793-1840, 1 clasp, Syria (James R. Veitch, Mate); Baltic 1854-55, unnamed as issued; St. Jean D’Acre 1840, silver, plugged and fitted with a ring suspension, edge nicks and contact marks, generally very fine (3) £1,800-£2,200 --- James Richard Veitch was born on St. Mary’s in the Scilly Isles in September 1827, the son of Captain James Veitch, R.N., and entered the Royal Navy as an apprentice Mate in H.M.S. Hastings in 1840, aged 13 years. Subsequently actively employed in the Syrian Campaign, he was severely wounded in the face at the storming of Acre, partially losing the sight of one eye (Medal & clasp). Veitch’s subsequent seagoing appointments as a Lieutenant included employment on the Pacific Station in Inconstant (1847-50); the Penguin (1850-55); and in the Arrogant (1855-57), including a turn of duty in the Baltic (Medal). His obituary notice in The Times also credits him with the award of the ‘Medal from the Turkish Government.’ Having then been advanced to Commander in May 1857, he served in the Boscawen (1858-60) and the Revenge (1861-62), in which latter year he was promoted to Captain. Placed on the Retired List in April 1870, Veitch received further advancement, being appointed Rear-Admiral in March 1878, Vice-Admiral in July 1884 and Admiral in December 1888. He later served as Governor of Walton Prison, Liverpool.
Naval General Service 1793-1840, 1 clasp, Syria (G. H. Brison.) ‘B’ of surname somewhat heavily impressed, polished, good very fine £500-£700 --- G. H. Brison was born in Portsea, Hampshire, and served as a 15 year-old Boy Second Class in H.M.S. Revenge during the operations on and off the Coast of Syria in 1840. For the Naval General Service Medal awarded to Thomas McGillwray, who served in H.M.S. Revenge at the Battle of Trafalgar 35 years previously, see Lot 13. Sold with copied Muster Roll extract.
Three: Able Seaman D. Culley, Royal Navy Baltic 1854-55 (D. Culley) contemporarily engraved naming; Crimea 1854-56, 1 clasp, Sebastopol (D. Culley) contemporarily engraved naming; Turkish Crimea 1855, Sardinian issue (D. Culley) contemporarily engraved naming, with Baltic style silver suspension, each with contemporary silver top riband brooch bar, engraved respectively 'Baltic', 'Crimea', and 'Turkey', the last lacking its retaining pin, the naming on each medal done in a different hand, generally very fine or better (3) £400-£500 --- Daniel Culley served in H.M.S. Prince Regent during the Baltic Campaign, and in H.M.S. Royal Albert during the Crimean War, having previously served with the Coast Guard Station at Belmullet, County Mayo.
Pair: Regulating Chief Wren Julia Isobel Reynolds, Women’s Royal Naval Service Jubilee 1977, unnamed as issued; Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., E.II.R., 2nd issue (CWRENREG J I Reynolds W121051K HMS Warrior) good very fine (2) £240-£280 --- Provenance: David Lloyd Collection, Dix Noonan Webb, January 2021. Sold with confirmation of Jubilee 1977 medal.
Five: Staff Captain J. R. N. Moss, Royal Navy Crimea 1854-56, 2 clasps, Sebastopol, Azoff, unnamed as issued; China 1857-60, no clasp, unnamed as issued; Egypt and Sudan 1882-89, dated reverse, no clasp (Staff Comdr. J. R. N. Moss, R.N. H.M.S. “Agincourt.”); Turkish Crimea 1855, British issue, unnamed as issued, fitted with additional silver bar suspension; Khedive’s Star, dated 1882, unnamed as issued, generally good very fine (5) £1,000-£1,400 --- Provenance: Roy Painter Collection, Dix Noonan Webb, March 2022. John Rolfe Nelson Moss was appointed Navigating Sub-Lieutenant on 11 July 1856; Navigating Lieutenant, 19 April 1859; Staff Commander, 7 December 1869; Staff Captain 11 July 1882; Retired Captain, 25 August 1889. He served as Master’s Assistant of Viper at the destruction of the Fort, &c., at Djimitea, in March 1855; took part in the siege of Sebastopol, and expeditions to Kertch and Yenikalé, and operations in the Sea of Azoff (Crimean and Turkish Medals, Sebastopol and Azoff Clasps); present during China war (Medal); Staff-Commander of Agincourt during the Egyptian war, 1882 (Egyptian Medal, Khedive’s Bronze Star).
A fine Second War M.B.E., Lloyd’s War Medal for Bravery at Sea group of seven awarded to Chief Officer B. Beavis, Mercantile Marine The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, M.B.E. (Civil) Member’s 2nd type breast badge, silver, in Royal Mint case of issue; 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Africa Star; Burma Star; War Medal 1939-45; Lloyd’s War Medal for Bravery at Sea (Chief Officer Bernard Beavis, M.V. “Anglo Canadian”, 6th April 1942) in fitted case of issue, nearly extremely fine (7) £1,800-£2,200 --- Provenance: Dix Noonan Webb, July 2011 (when MBE and Lloyd’s Medal only). M.B.E. London Gazette 24 November 1942: ‘When sailing alone, the ship was attacked by Japanese aircraft with torpedoes and bombs for over two hours. She was handled with great skill by her Master and her armament was used to good effect. Although she evaded all attacks by torpedo carriers, she was hit by a bomb and set on fire. By the persistence and courage of her fire-fighting parties, well led by the Chief Officer [Beavis] and Carpenter, she was saved.’ Lloyd’s War Medal for Bravery Lloyd’s List and Shipping Gazette 16 December 1943: ‘The ship, sailing alone, withstood attacks by Japanese aircraft for over two hours before she was hit by a bomb and set on fire. Throughout the action, Captain Williams managed his ship with outstanding skill and determination. Although they knew an unexploded bomb was somewhere nearby, and in spite of smoke and fumes which overcame three of the party, Chief Officer Beavis and Carpenter Bergstrom courageously led the fire fighters into the store-room. It was largely due to their efforts that the ship was saved. Later, the Master, the Chief Officer and the Carpenter carried the bomb ashore, where it was exploded.’ Bernard Beavis, who was born in Ventnor on the Isle of Wight in May 1908, was decorated for his gallantry as Chief Officer of the Anglo Canadian on 6 April 1942, when, as cited above, she was subjected to protracted attack in the Vizagapatam Roads, in the Bay of Bengal - a full account of the action appears in David Masters’ In Peril on the Sea, including mention of the bomb disposal incident: ‘The reason became plain later on when they started to remove a heap of sawdust in a corner. Lying underneath was a big unexploded bomb. A glance told Captain Williams that it was a time-bomb. It might go off at any moment. There was not a minute to lose. They must get it on deck and dispose of it as quickly as possible. Calling on the Chief Officer [Beavis] and Carpenter to help him, the three managed to carry the bomb up on deck, where they roped it off and put three men to guard it. Then the Captain sent for a bomb disposal expert to examine it. After some time an officer came along. He was quite unflurried. Looking at the bomb he jotted down particulars in his notebook. “I will arrange for its disposal,” he said, and calmly took his departure. It was to Captain Williams a tense situation. There was the time-bomb threatening instant destruction to ship and crew if it went off. No one had the slightest idea when zero hour would arrive. It might be seconds, or minutes, or hours. It can be imagined with what anxiety Captain Williams waited for the disposal squad to come along. The longer he waited the more disturbed he became. “The best thing we can do is to remove the bomb ourselves before it explodes on board,” he said at last to the Chief Officer. The latter agreed. He was as anxious as the Master to see the last of it. “Give me a hand,” said Captain Williams. Lifting the bomb between them, they managed to get it ashore and carry it to some waste ground, where they deposited it. They were two very brave men. For aught they knew a shattering explosion might have come at any moment to blow them to pieces. To save the ship and any loss of life among the crew they took the grave risk unto themselves. The bomb lay on the waste ground only forty yards away. If it went off now it might give them a bit of a shaking, but it could not destroy the ship. Having seen many bombs explode round the ship the previous day, they knew that a miss was as good as a mile. Later on some Royal Engineers took the bomb to a field where they dumped it and left it to explode in its own time. It went off exactly 127.5 hours after hitting the ship. But no one was to know that. Of course the Japanese intended the bomb to explode shortly after impact, but it was either wrongly set or the mechanism was faulty. In due course an account of the spirited defence of the Anglo-Canadian against the Japanese aircraft and the courageous action of the Captain, Chief Officer and Carpenter in removing the time-bomb filtered through to official quarters where the achievements of officers and crew were recognised by the award of the O.B.E. to Captain Williams, the M.B.E. to Chief Officer Beavis, the B.E.M. to Carpenter Bergstrom, the D.S.M. to Gunlayer R. Watson and Corporal A. F. Charlton and the B.E.M to greasers R. J. Dunn and A. E. Hayes while Captain D. J. Williams, Chief Officer B. Beavis and Carpenter Eugene Bergstrom who risked their lives to carry the bomb up on deck and dump it ashore were accorded the additional honour of Lloyd’s War Medal.’ Alas, the Anglo Canadian’s survival was short-lived, for she was torpedoed and sunk by the U-153 south-east of Bermuda in June 1942 - of her crew of 40 sailors and 10 gunners, one man was lost, and the survivors had to endure 14 days at sea in open boats, one commanded by the Chief Officer, until reaching St. Kitts. Sold with copied research, including the Master’s lengthy account of the loss of the Anglo Canadian and his crew’s subsequent journey to St. Kitts; and a photographic image of the recipient.
A Great War 1918 ‘Ploegsteert’ M.C. group of seven awarded to Major G. Morton, North Staffordshire Regiment and Machine Gun Corps, who was three times wounded in action, and later served with the Australian Intelligence Corps during the Second World War Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued; 1914-15 Star (2nd. Lieut. G. Morton. N. Staff. Regt.) unofficially re-engraved naming; British War and Victory Medals (Lieut. G. Morton.); War Medal 1939-45; Australia Service Medal, these both officially impressed ‘QX42692 G. Morton’; Efficiency Decoration, G.VI.R., 1st issue, Australia, the reverse privately engraved ‘QX42692 Maj. G. Morton A.I.F.’, with sew-on top riband bar, very fine and better (7) £1,200-£1,600 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- M.C. London Gazette 11 January 1919: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty [at Ploegsteert on 7 September 1918]. When his machine guns were advancing to cover infantry they came under intense fire of all kinds. Two infantry platoons became disorganised and the advance stopped. This officer promptly went forward, with one man of his section, reorganised the infantry, and led them forward 300 yards and outflanked and silenced the enemy machine guns which were holding up the advance. While returning to his section he was severely wounded. He displayed great courage and initiative and rendered very valuable service.’ George Morton was born on 22 March 1896 and was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the North Staffordshire Regiment on 13 July 1915. He served with the 8th Battalion (and later on attachment to the Northumberland Fusiliers) during the Great War on the Western Front from July to August 1915; June to October 1916; June to October 1917; and June to September 1918, and was wounded on three occasions. He was promoted Lieutenant on 27 April 1917, and was awarded the Military Cross whilst serving with the 29th Battalion, Machine Gun Corps. He was discharged on 28 October 1920. Emigrating to Australia, Morton joined the Australian Army Reserve of Officers as a Captain on 30 December 1935, and served during the Second World War in the Australian Intelligence Corps, being promoted Major on 31 May 1943. He was awarded the Efficiency Decoration in 1947 (Commonwealth of Australia Gazette 27 November 1947). Sold with various rank and unit insignia; and copied research.
A fine and superbly well-documented Second War Hurricane and Spitfire fighter Ace’s ‘Western Desert’ D.F.C. group of eight awarded to Wing Commander J. M. Morgan, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. He had distinguished himself pre-War by saving the life of a fellow trainee pilot from a crashed aircraft at No. 10 F.T.S. on 19 December 1938, and optimistically chased an enemy aircraft in a Hawker Henley during the height of the Battle of Britain whilst posted with No. 1 Anti-Aircraft Co-operation Unit - Morgan followed it all the way to Swansea before ‘allowing’ a Spitfire to take over. Destined for more glamorous flying opportunities, Morgan was posted to the famous 92 (East India) Squadron at the end of 1941. Like the rest of the squadron’s pilots he was attached to 80 Squadron in the Western Desert, whilst his parent unit was eventually kitted out with aircraft. Having destroyed several enemy aircraft whilst flying Hurricanes, Morgan was now unleashed on 92’s newly acquired Spitfires. Morgan’s flying prowess quickly came to the fore, with him rapidly being appointed a Flight Commander, before receiving the ultimate accolade: the command of 92 Squadron in December 1942 - January 1943. He led from the front, ‘in the course of the fight [7 January 1943] I shot a 109G down in flames, crashing in the sea... and damaged a second. I finally had to fight two 109’s without ammunition for 30 minutes until my aircraft received hits from a head on attack which forced me to take evasive action - the 109’s then beat it home. This was a very shaky engagement with the bullets narrowly missing my head!!!’ Morgan subsequently commanded No. 234 Wing during the short-lived defence of the island of Kos, before being appointed to the command of 274 Squadron in October 1943. Now flying Spitfires as fighter bombers, Morgan led the Squadron into Italy and on many low-level attacks: ‘we attacked several Tiger tanks and armoured cars with front guns in the Capestrano area [24 January 1944]. I strafed a tank on a mountain pass which rolled over the side into the valley below...’ Morgan was shot down by anti-aircraft fire whilst carrying out a low-level strafe near Terni, 28 February 1944. In his words: ‘Shot down over the lines after gun fight - parachuted into captivity.’ He arrived to be interned at the infamous Stalag Luft III, Sagan, just three days after the ‘Great Escape’. Carrying on in service after the war, Morgan commanded 208 Squadron in the Canal Zone at the time of the fighting following the creation of the state of Israel Distinguished Flying Cross, G.VI.R., reverse officially dated ‘1943’; 1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star, 1 clasp, France and Germany, this loose; Africa Star, 1 clasp, North Africa 1942-43; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; Society for the Protection of Life from Fire, 5th type (1902-83), silver (John Milne Morgan, Bletchley. 19-12-38) with integral top riband bar, in John Pinches, London leather case of issue; Queen’s Messenger Badge, E.II.R., silver-gilt and enamel with pendant silver greyhound, badge reverse inscribed, ‘75’, hallmarks for London ‘1964’, in Garrard & Co. Ltd case of issue, Second War awards mounted as worn, generally good very fine (lot) (9) £10,000-£15,000 --- D.F.C. London Gazette 5 February 1943. The original recommendation states: ‘This Officer arrived in the Western Desert with No. 92 Squadron at the beginning of July when the Squadron was flying Hurricane aircraft of No. 80 Squadron. Since then he has shown great courage and considerable skill as a leader, both of a Flight and of the Squadron. In fact, a large proportion of the Squadron’s score in the Middle East has been due to this Officer’s determined leading of his Flight. He, personally, has destroyed 5 enemy aircraft, probably destroyed 1 more and damaged 4 others. By his courage, qualities of leadership and his personal example, he has made his Flight into an efficient fighting unit.’ Society for the Protection of Life from Fire: Case No. 17,324: Flight Lieutenant John Milne Morgan, Royal Air Force: Silver medal An account of the circumstances is given in Air Council Letter, dated 31 March 1939, thus: 'To Air Officer Commanding, No. 23 (Training Group), RAF Grantham, Lincs. Sir, With reference to your letter dated 7th February 1939 (No. 23G735/102/P(20)), I am commanded by the Air Council to inform you that they have noted with satisfaction the gallantry and perseverance displayed by Acting Pilot Officer J M Morgan in attempting to rescue Acting Pilot Officer W A Jenns following an aircraft accident at Bletchley on 19th December 1938. The council have caused a suitable note to be made in Acting Pilot Officer Morgan's record and I am to request that the officer may be informed accordingly'. The award was then noted in the SPLF Letter, dated 17 August 1939, thus: ‘To The Under Secretary of State, Air Ministry, S7D, Adastral House, Kingsway, London, WC2. Re: Acting Pilot Officer J M Morgan in Aeroplane crash at Bletchley, near Tern Hill - 19th December 1938. The circumstances of this case have been reported to us and the Trustees have decided to make an award of the Society's Silver Medal to Acting Pilot Officer J M Morgan. At the request of the Group Captain, No. 10 Flying Training School, Market Drayton, I am forwarding the medal to you under separate cover today. We should be greatly obliged if you would advise us of its safe receipt and be so good as to give such instructions as may commend themselves to you for its presentation to the recipient'. Both letter and medal were forwarded for conferral, the details being recorded in RAF correspondence thus: ‘HQ, No. 22 Group, RAF letter - 24 August 1939. To No. 1 Anti-Aircraft Co-operation Unit - Re: Pilot Officer J M Morgan. The attached copy of a letter received from the Society for the Protection of Life from Fire is forwarded together with the Silver Medal referred to therein, and it is requested that you will arrange for this award to be presented to the above named officer in a suitable manner, details of the presentation being notified to this Headquarters in due course.’ John Milne Morgan was a native of Balham, London, and was born in 1916. He was educated at Bonneville Road School, Clapham Park and the Henry Thornton School, Clapham Common. He enlisted in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve in 1935, and was commissioned Pilot Officer in 1938. Morgan carried out his initial pilot training at No. 8 E.F.T.S., Reading and No. 10 F.T.S., Tern Hill - being stationed at the latter when he saved the life of Pilot Officer W. A. Jenns when Hart K5795 crashed on 19 December 1938. He was posted as a pilot to No. 1 Anti-Aircraft Co-operation Unit, Farnborough in March 1939, and was still serving with the unit when was war was declared in September of the same year. Morgan carried on serving with the unit with its various moves to Carew Cheriton and Cleave, and was doubtless frustrated by his posting as the Battle of Britain evolved. His limited aircraft - the Hawker Henley - did not stop him from having an optimistic go at an enemy aircraft on 6 September 1940: ‘Z.C. 6000. Spotted enemy aircraft 1,000ft below chased to Swansea, Spitfire took over.’ (Log Book refers). Despite such incidences as above, and the ‘ticker tape’ entitlement slip which shows Morgan as entitled to the Battle of Britain clasp, there is no other evidence to suggest that he qualified for the clasp. However, that did not preclude him from other sightings and scrapes with enemy aircraft during the...
Three: Lieutenant-Colonel N. Macnamara, Royal Marine Artillery Crimea 1854-56, 2 clasps, Sebastopol, Azoff (Lieut. N. Macnamara, R.M. Arty.) depot impressed naming; Ottoman Empire, Order of the Medjidie, Fifth Class breast badge, silver, gold appliqué, and enamel; Turkish Crimea, Sardinian issue, unnamed, fitted with Crimea suspension, edge bruising and contact marks, otherwise nearly very fine (3) £700-£900 --- Provenance: Clive Nowell Collection, Dix Noonan Webb, June 2009. Note: A similar group to this recipient but with an engraved Crimea medal was sold by Buckland Dix & Wood in June 1994. Nugent Macnamara was born in Guernsey and entered the Royal Marine Artillery as a 2nd Lieutenant, aged 19 years, on 30 December 1847. Promoted to 1st Lieutenant in April 1849, he saw service on the West Coast of Africa prior to participating in the Crimea War, when he was present at the siege and fall of Sebastopol, and as the Senior Officer, R.M.A., employed in the Sea of Azoff in June 1855. The latter post resulted in his landing at Ghirsk, Marionpol and Taganrog, where he destroyed government stores (despatches). He was also present at the bombardment and surrender of Kinburn and received the 5th class badge of the Turkish Order of Medjidjie, the latter decoration being referred to in a letter of his to the Deputy Adjutant General (R.M.), dated 1 November 1877: “... the importance of the Expedition, which was signally successful, was marked by the 'Azoff' clasp being added to the Crimea Medal and by an extensive Naval Promotion in which from the rank I then held I was unable to share. On obtaining my Company in 1859, I submitted an application for Brevet rank but was unsuccessful so that my services together with those of the Force I commanded remained unrecognised beyond the award of the 5th class of the Medjidjie which the officers serving under my orders received. In fact Macnamara received his promotion to Captain in 1859 and to Brevet Major in 1872. He held several sea-going appointments during this period, including one aboard the famous ironclad, H.M.S. Warrior, between 1867-69 (Warrior has now been restored to her former glory and is open to the public at Portsmouth). He was subsequently appointed Staff Captain at R.M.A. Headquarters in 1870 and retired with the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel in 1876. Recipient of a Greenwich Hospital Pension in 1903, Macnamara died on 3 May 1917.
A Second War ‘1945’ D.F.C. group of four awarded to Stirling and Lancaster wireless operator, Warrant Officer, later Flying Officer, R. D. Hamilton, 90 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, who flew in at least 45 operational sorties, including as part of a Master Bomber crew Distinguished Flying Cross, G.VI.R., reverse officially dated ‘1945’; 1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star, 1 clasp, France and Germany; War Medal 1939-45, nearly extremely fine (4) £1,400-£1,800 --- Provenance: J. B. Hayward, 1968 (£35). D.F.C. London Gazette 27 March 1945. The original recommendation states: ‘This Wireless Operator has now completed a large number of operational sorties in Stirlings and Lancaster aircraft to many of Germany’s most heavily defended targets. He has displayed, and continues to do so, the highest standard of keenness, and applies himself with the utmost diligence to any task or operation which he is asked to undertake. He has displayed qualities of incalculable value as a crew member, and his efficient performance as a wireless operator has set an exemplary standard worthy of emulation. His captain has always been loud in his praises for the manner in which Hamilton carries out his work with efficiency but unobtrusive modesty. I recommend that his courage and devotion to duty be recognised by the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.’ Robert Douglas Hamilton joined the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve as an A.C. 2, and qualified as a Wireless Operator in May 1941. After further training he advanced to Sergeant Wireless Operator/Air Gunner in May 1942. Hamilton was subsequently posted to 11 O.T.U., Bassingbourn, and No. 1651 Conversion Unit, Waterbeach. Whilst at Bassingbourn he flew in a Wellington on his first operational sortie to Essen on 16 September 1942. Hamilton was posted for operational service with 90 Squadron (Stirlings) at Bottesford in December 1942. He flew in at least 25 operational sorties with the Squadron between February and June 1943, including: Lorient (3); Bayonne; Nuremberg; Cologne (2); Hamburg on 3 March 1943, when his aircraft was ‘coned for 7 mins’ (Log Book refers); Essen (2); St. Nazaire; Berlin (2); Frankfurt; Stuttgart; Mannheim on 16 April 1943, ‘Attacked By 2 Me.109’s:- S/O Prop. Fell Off’ (Ibid); Rostock; Duisberg (2); Dortmund; Bochum; Dusseldorf; Le Creusot; Mulheim; and Gelsenkirchen. Hamilton, having completed his first tour of operations, was posted as an instructor to 11 O.T.U. (Wellingtons), Westcott in July 1943. He stayed employed in that capacity until posted to No. 3 L.F.S. in September 1944. Hamilton returned to operational flying with 90 Squadron (Lancasters) at Tuddenham at the end of September 1944. He flew in at least 19 operational sorties with the Squadron with Squadron Leader A. R. Scott D.F.C. and Bar as his pilot, including: Neuss (2); Calais Battle Area (2); Saarbrucken; Klieve; Bonn; Kattegat; Essen; Leverkusen; Koblenz; Castrop-Rauxel; Fulda; Dortmund; (2) Oberhausen; Siegen; Trier, when employed as Master Bomber crew on 23 December 1944; and Krefeld. Hamilton was awarded the D.F.C. at the end of his second tour of operations, and posted to 30 O.T.U. at Gamston in February 1945. He was posted to Transport Command for Signals Briefing Duties in June 1945, and was subsequently posted to 229 Group in India before being discharged in May 1946. Sold with recipient’s Royal Air Force Observer’s and Air Gunner’s Flying Log Book (4 May 1942 - 20 October 1945).
A fine Order of St John group of eight awarded to Sergeant-Major T. Donnelly, Royal Army Medical Corps, late Blackpool Division, St. John Ambulance Brigade The Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Officer’s breast badge, silver; Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 2 clasps, Cape Colony, South Africa 1901 (877 Sply: Ofcr: T. Donnelly, St John Amb: Bde:); 1914-15 Star (61210, S. Mjr. T. Donnelly, R.A.M.C.); British War and Victory Medals (61210 W.O. Cl. 1. T. Donnelly. R.A.M.C.); Army Meritorious Service Medal, G.V.R., 1st issue (61210 S. Mjr. T. Donnelly. R.A.M.C.); St. John Medal for South Africa 1899-1902 (877. Sergt. T. Donnelly. Blackpool Div.); Service Medal of the Order of St John, silver, straight bar suspension, with three additional service bars (1st Amb: Off: Thomas Donnelly. (Blackpool Div: S.J.A.B.) 1913.) mounted court-style as worn, together with Blackpool Tribute Medal (Hibbard A5), silver and enamels, hallmarked Birmingham 1901, the reverse engraved (To 1st Officer T. Donnelly, St John Ambulance Brigade (Blackpool Division) South African War 1899 1901), good very fine (9) £1,000-£1,400 --- M.S.M. London Gazette 18 January 1919: St John’s Ambulance Brigade Hospital [France]. Thomas Donnelly was a native of Poulton-le-Fylde, Lancashire, and served in South Africa with the Blackpool Division of the St John Ambulance Brigade. As a Sergeant-Major in the Royal Army Medical Corps he served in France from 22 July 1915.
A Great War Western Front ‘Beaucamp, September 1918’ D.C.M. and M.M. group of four awarded to Private J. Tempest, 1/7th Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (281655 Pte. J. Tempest. M.M. 1/7 Lan: Fus.); Military Medal, G.V.R. (281655 J. Tempest. D.C.M. 7/Lan: Fus.); British War and Victory Medals (281655 Pte. J. Tempest. Lan. Fus.) medals unmounted, minor edge bruising and light contact marks, otherwise very fine (4) £1,600-£2,000 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 18 February 1919; citation published 10 January 1920: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and initiative during the attack near Beaucamp on the 27th and 28th September 1918. As No. 1 of a Lewis gun team he remained alone in an advanced shell hole, directing fire on hostile machine guns and snipers, at the same time drawing fire on himself. He set an example of gallantry of the highest order.’ M.M. London Gazette 17 June 1919. James Tempest was a native of Hunslett, Leeds. Sold with copied research including gazette notices and War Diary extracts.
A fine Great War ‘Western Front’ D.C.M. and ‘Passchendaele’ M.M. group of four awarded to Acting Sergeant J. MacKay, 44th Battalion, Canadian Infantry (Manitoba Regiment) Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (229409 A. Cpl. J. Mackay. 44/Can: Inf:); Military Medal, G.V.R. (229409 L. Cpl.-A. Cpl.-J. Mackay. 44/Can: Inf:); British War and Victory Medals (229409 A. Sjt. J. Mackay. 44-Can. Inf.) mounted on card for display, good very fine (4) £2,000-£2,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 1 January 1918; citation published 17 April 1918: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty when in charge of the brigade bombing section during lengthy operations. He carried out his duties with the greatest courage and energy, continuously exposed to heavy fire, and set a fine example of devotion to duty.’ Annotated Gazette states: ‘Hill 145 - Triangle - La Coulotte. Lens 1917.’ M.M. London Gazette 23 February 1918. The recommendation states: ‘In front of PASSCHENDAELE 21st to 28th October 1917. This N.C.O. was in charge of the Brigade Bombing Section. The difficulty in supplying ammunition, bombs etc, to the units forward was very great. He located forward dumps and personally supervised under the heaviest shell fire, the stocking of same... He kept continuously in touch with Battalions in regard to their needs, and, in this connection, made frequent trips forward. His example of courage and devotion was of the highest possible order and a great inspiration to his Section, and his efforts in supplying Units with their requirements was untiring. He succeeded in getting through [supplies] of S.A.A. and bombs at times when they were most critically required. His service has since been at all times of the highest order.’ (A.F.W. 3121. 5-11-17) James MacKay was born on 9 July 1865, at Latheron, Caithness, Scotland. At the time of volunteering for the C.E.F. in July 1915 he was living with his wife at Vale Avenue, Winnipeg, a manager by profession. He officially enlisted into the 61st Battalion at Winnipeg on 8 September 1915, was taken on strength of the 44th Battalion on 12 May 1916, and embarked for France on 16 August following. He was reported wounded (shell shock) on 25 October 1916, but returned to duty 11 days later. Awarded the D.C.M. and M.M. in 1918 for gallant services as Brigade Bombing N.C.O. attached to H.Q. 10th Canadian Infantry Brigade, he was discharged at Winnipeg on 13 May 1919, and awarded War Service Badge No. 185186. Sold with copied research including discharge papers and the following related items: i. War Service Badge numbered as above ii. Trench wrist watch, the backplate inscribed ‘Presented to Pte. James MacKay, on his leaving for active service by the employees of D. McCall Co. Ltd., Winnipeg September 8th 1915’ (relic) iii. Pocket Edition Gillette Safety Razor, in metal travelling case, the lid inscribed ‘Pte. James MacKay, Winnipeg Sept. 9th 1915’ iv. Songs of a Sourdough, by Robert W. Service, Toronto 1913, green leather covers, contents quite distressed and many pages loose.
A fine Great War 1918 ‘Western Front’ D.C.M. group of four to Warrant Officer Class II E. Perryman, Royal Horse Artillery, who was decorated for ‘untiring zeal and cheerfulness’ whilst attached to “B” Battery, 231st Brigade, Royal Field Artillery Territorial Force Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (60098 B.S.Mjr: E. Perryman. R.H.A.); 1914 Star, with copy clasp (60098 Cpl. E. Perryman. R.F.A.); British War and Victory Medals (60098 W.O.Cl.2. E. Perryman. R.A.) mounted court-style for display, good very fine and better (4) £600-£800 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 3 June 1918: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. For the past year this Warrant Officer has shown untiring zeal and cheerfulness under all circumstances. It is very largely thanks to his efforts that the battery has maintained its efficiency.’ Edward Perryman, a native of Hounslow, served in France from 19 August 1914 with 28th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery. Advanced Battery Sergeant Major, he was decorated for ‘zeal and cheerfulness’ over a period of time when the British and Allied Armies were facing significant pressures, not least during the German Spring Offensive when the enemy attempted to make use of 50 divisions freed by the Russian defeat. With storm trooper units achieving the deepest advances made by either side on the Western Front since 1914, the morale and efficiency of the British Army proved crucial in holding back the Germans, thus ‘buying time’ to enable American forces to disembark and tilt the balance back in favour of the Allies. Sold with copied research.
A Great War ‘Pilkem July 1915’ D.C.M. group of five awarded to Bandsman W. Barrett, Somerset Light Infantry Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (6150 Bndsmn: W. Barrett. 1/Som: L.I.); 1914 Star, with clasp (6150 Bndsmn W. Barrett. 1/Som: L.I.); British War and Victory Medals (6150 Pte. W. Barrett. Som. L.I.); Army L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue (6150 Pte. W. Barrett. Som: L.I.) mounted as worn but Star detached, very fine (5) £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 14 January 1916; citation published 11 March 1916: ‘For conspicuous gallantry in bringing in wounded men from exposed places under heavy rifle, machine-gun and shell fire. Throughout the campaign Bandsman Barrett has displayed great bravery and devotion to duty.’ Annotated gazette states: ‘S. of Pilkem, 6 July 1915.’ William Barrett served in France as a Bandsman with 1st Battalion, Somerset Light Infantry, from 21 August 1914. Sold with ribbon bar and group of four related family medals, comprising 1939-45 Star, France and Germany Star, Defence and War Medals, in card box of issue addressed to Mr C. N. Barrett, Keyham, Plymouth Devon.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ D.C.M. group of six awarded to Colour-Sergeant T. F. Wilkinson, 1/7th (Leeds Rifles) Battalion, West Yorkshire Regiment, Territorial Force Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (265011 C.Q.M. Sjt: F. Wilkinson. 1/7 W. York: R.-T.F.) note single initial as per gazette; 1914-15 Star (433 C.Q.M. Sjt. T. F. Wilkinson.W. York: R.); British War and Victory Medals (433 C. Sjt. T. F. Wilkinson. W. York. R.); Volunteer Force Long Service Medal, E.VII.R. (6556 Sjt: T. F. Wilkinson. 3rd V.B. W. Yorks: Regt.); Territorial Force Efficiency Medal, G.V.R. (265011 C.Q.M. Sjt: T. F. Wilkinson. 7/W. York: R.) mounted for wear on two separate bars, toned, good very fine (6) £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 4 July 1917; citation published 9 July 1917: ‘265011 C./Q./M./S. F. Wilkinson, W. York. R. (formerly 433). For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He has at all times performed his duties in a most courageous manner, especially when under fire, and has set a fine example to all those under him.’ Annotated gazette states: ‘France since April 1915’. T.F.E.M. Army Order 178 of 1 May 1919. Thomas Frederick Wilkinson served in France from 16 April 1915 and was disembodied on 27 April 1919. Sold with copied research including gazette notices, D.C.M. and Medal Index Cards.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Private C. J. Parker, 7th Battalion, South Staffordshire Regiment, for gallant services as a Brigade Headquarters ‘Runner’ Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (13503 Pte. C. J. Parker. 7/S. Staff: R.); 1914-15 Star (13503 Pte. C. Parker. S. Staff: R.); British War and Victory Medals (13503 Pte. C. J. Parker. S. Staff. R.) medals unmounted, good very fine (4) £900-£1,200 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 1 January 1919; citation published 3 September 1919: ‘For conspicuous devotion to duty and consistent gallantry during the past two years as brigade headquarters orderly. He is a pathfinder of the first order, and during the whole of his service has shown a fine example to all other runners. He is most cool under fire, and has never failed to deliver messages no matter how adverse the conditions were.’ Charles James Parher was a native of Birmingham and served in France with the South Staffordshire Regiment from 14 July 1915, as part of the 33rd Brigade in the 11th Division. Sold with original portrait photograph in uniform; St John Ambulance Association re-examination badge (34120 Charles J. Parker 1931) with five additional loose dated clasps 1932-35, all numbered as before; Rescue Fire & Ambulance Brigade enamelled lapel badge, fibre identity disc; miniature D.C.M.; City of Birmingham Gas Department Ambulance Trophy, gilt-bronze and enamelled fob (Charles J. Parker 1930) in Vaughtons Ltd fitted case; certified copies of Marriage and Death certificates, dated 3 June 1925 (Gas Works Engine Driver) and 25 September 1936 (aged 46 years, Foreman at Gas Works) respectively; together with copied research.
A Great War Western Front ‘Regina Trench, October 1916’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant W. H. Douglas, 9th Battalion, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment, who died of wounds received in a battalion attack on Westhoek Ridge in August 1917 Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (17706 Sjt: W. H. Douglas. 9/L.N. Lanc: R.); 1914-15 Star (17706 Pte. W. H. Douglas. L.N. Lan: R.); British War and Victory Medals (17706 Sjt. W. H. Douglas. L.N. Lan. R.) good very fine (4) £1,200-£1,600 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 11 December 1916: ‘For conspicuous gallantry in action. He and a bomber went out in front of the captured trench and succeeded in silencing an enemy sniper. He displayed great courage and initiative throughout and kept his men well in hand.’ Annotated gazette states: ‘Regina Trench, 21 October 1916’. William Henry Douglas was born at Stafford and enlisted at Bolton. He served with the 9th Battalion, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment, in France from 25 September 1915. He died of wounds received in a battalion attack on Westhoek Ridge on 10 August 1917, aged 28, and is buried in Hooge Crater Cemetery. Sold with copied research including gazette notices, War Diary extracts, D.C.M. and Medal Index Cards.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ sniper’s D.C.M. group of four awarded to Corporal W. Budworth, 2nd Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (3-10607 Pte. W. Budworth. 2/North’n R.); 1914 Star, with clasp (3-10607 Pte. W. Budworth. 2/North’n R.); British War and Victory Medals (3-10607 Cpl. W. Budworth. North’n R.) mounted as worn, nearly very fine (4) £1,200-£1,600 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 14 January 1916; citation published 11 March 1916: ‘For consistent good work as a sniper in the trenches. The smallness of the losses in the battalion from the enemy’s snipers is largely due to his skill and courage. He has also done good work patrolling in front of our lines.’ William Budworth was born at Kettering, Northamptonshire, and attested for the Northamptonshire Regiment on 2 September 1914, aged 34 years 7 months. He joined at Chesterfield and was posted to the 2nd Battalion, with whom he proceeded to France on 6 November 1914. He was wounded on 3 June 1916, and again on 9 February 1917, being discharged on 3 April 1917, due to shell wound to head and fractured skull. Sold with copied research, including Attestation papers and a typescript account entitled Sniper on the Western Front, by Nobby Clarke, Sniper, 1st and 2nd Northants Regiment, which contains several mentions of Corporal Budworth and their sniping activities on the Western Front.
Three: Corporal J. Blackman, Royal Marines Light Infantry Crimea 1854-56, 1 clasp, Sebastopol (J. Blackman, R.M.L.I.) contemporarily engraved naming; Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., V.R., wide suspension (Jn. Blackman Corpl., R.M.L.I., H.M.S. Victoria & Albert, 21 Yrs.); Turkish Crimea 1855, British issue (John Blackman, R.M.L.I.) contemporarily engraved naming, pierced with ring suspension, good very fine (3) £700-£900 --- One of just seven Victorian ‘wide suspension’ Long Service and Good Conduct Medals named to the Royal Yacht. John Blackman was born at Harting, Sussex in the spring of 1835 and enlisted in the Royal Marines at Portsmouth in March 1853. Quickly seeing active service aboard H.M.S. Hannibal in the Crimean War, including the Sebastopol operations, he ended his career as a Corporal on the Royal Yacht Victoria and Albert, in which ship he served for nearly 15 years, and was awarded his Long Service and Good Conduct Medal on being discharged ashore in April 1874. Sold with copied service papers and other research.
A Great War ‘Western Front 1918’ D.C.M. group of six awarded to Company Sergeant-Major A. Fletcher, Highland Light Infantry, late Essex Regiment with whom he saw service in the Boer War and at Gallipoli in the landing on ‘W’ Beach where he was wounded shortly after; he was decorated for ‘marked gallantry’ when ‘he on his own initiative crawled forward and killed 3 snipers’ Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (55423 C.S. Mjr: A. Fletcher. 1/9 High: L.I.); Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 4 clasps, Orange Free State, Transvaal, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 (4383 L. Corpl: A. Fletcher. Essex Regt.); 1914-15 Star (4383 Sjt. A. Fletcher. Essex R.); British War and Victory Medals (4383 W.O. Cl. 2 A. Fletcher. Essex R.); Army L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue (4383 Sjt: A. Fletcher. Essex Regt.) mounted for display, the second with re-fixed suspension claw, edge bruising and contact marks, therefore nearly very fine, edge bruise to the last, otherwise very fine or better (6) £1,200-£1,600 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 2 December 1919: ‘For marked gallantry and initiative near Englefontaine, on 24th October, 1918, his company was acting as vanguard. The company commander was wounded and he took command until the arrival of another officer. His initiative and leadership contributed to the success of the advance. On 26th October he was in charge of a party mopping up in the village of Englefontaine, and did good work. During consolidation, when casualties were being sustained from snipers’ fire, he on his own initiative crawled forward and killed three snipers, and so allowed the work to continue.’ Alfred Fletcher was born on 21 February 1877, in the Parish of St. Paul's, Stockport, Cheshire. He attested for the Essex Regiment at Manchester on 21 December 1894, aged 17 years 10 months, a labourer by trade. At the time of his attestation he was serving in 4th (Militia) Battalion, The Cheshire Regiment. He joined the depot at Warley on 23 December 1894, and after training was posted to the 1st Battalion on 21 February 1895. He was subsequently posted to the 2nd Battalion for service in Burma on 27 October 1897, and was appointed Lance Corporal on 14 October 1898. He first saw active service in South Africa from 6 December 1901, returning to India in August 1902. He was promoted Corporal on 1 May 1903, after being posted back to the 1st Battalion where he was appointed Lance Sergeant. He later spent some time at the depot until being posted to the 3rd Battalion on 4 April 1907, where he remained until again posted to the 1st Battalion, where he was promoted to Sergeant on 16 December 1910. Sergeant Fletcher accompanied his battalion to Egypt on 23 March 1915, and thence to Gallipoli on 25 April 1915. The 1st Battalion, Essex Regiment were part of the 88th Brigade, 29th Division that landed at 'W' Beach, Cape Helles, on the Gallipoli peninsula. He was wounded on 9 May 1915 by a gunshot wound to the chest. On 15 August 1915, he was appointed Company Quartermaster Sergeant with the substantive rank of Colour Sergeant. Fletcher left Gallipoli with his battalion on 8 January 1916 to return to Egypt, and on 16 March 1916 he sailed for Marseilles from Alexandria. He was promoted to Company Sergeant Major on 4 June 1916, and returned to the U.K. on 20 June 1916, on being posted to the depot. Another posting followed, this time to the 3rd Battalion on 15 July 1916. He was transferred to the 2nd Garrison Battalion, Suffolk Regiment on 1 April 1917, followed by transfer to the 2/6th Battalion, Scottish Rifles on 23 June 1917. He remained with the Cameronians until he transferred to the 2/5th Battalion, Highland Light Infantry on 12 November 1917. He was subsequently posted to the 1/9th Battalion, H.L.I. in France on 14 April 1918, and it was while serving with this battalion that he was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal. He returned to the H.L.I. depot soon after the armistice, on 18 December 1918, and was posted to the 4th Battalion, H.L.I. on 14 January 1919, where he remained until being discharged on 22 March 1919, after 24 years of service. During his long service, Sergeant-Major Fletcher served in Burma, South Africa, Mauritius, Egypt, Gallipoli and France. After 18 years’ service he was awarded the Army Long Service & Good Conduct medal which was promulgated in Army Order 134 of April 1915. After his discharge, Alfred Fletcher lived at 59 Albert Road, Romford, Essex. Sold with copied research including gazette notices, discharge papers, and all relevant medal rolls.
A Great War ‘November 1918’ D.C.M. group of three awarded to Rifleman E. W. Bryant, 16th (County of London) Battalion (Queen’s Westminster Rifles), London Regiment, for gallantry in a successful reconnaissance near Sebourg which enabled the enemy’s flank to be turned and the attacking troops to get forward Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (554368 Pte. E. W. Bryant. 1/16 Lond: R.); British War and Victory Medals (554368 Pte. E. W. Bryant. 16-Lond. R.) heavily polished and worn, therefore fair to fine (3) £700-£900 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 18 February 1919; citation published 10 January 1920: ‘554368 Rfn. E. W. Bryant, 1/16th Bn., Lond. R. (Marylebone). For gallant and valuable service near Sebourg, on 5th November, 1918. He volunteered to proceed through a heavy barrage and ascertain the position in front. He obtained the information accurately, bringing back urgent messages, and led his company through the village, enabling the enemy’s flank to be turned and the attacking troops to get forward.’ Ernest Walter Bryant hailed from Marylebone, London, and enlisted into the 16th Battalion (Queen’s Westminster Rifles), London Regiment, on 13 February 1917, aged 18, a shop assistant by trade. He served in France from 15 January to 21 December, 1918, and was discharged on 25 June 1919. Sold with an original 56th (London) Division gallantry card, dated ‘17-11-18’ and named to ‘554368 Rgn. E. Bryant. London Regt (T.F.)’, torn almost in half; together with copied research including gazette notices, War Diary extracts and enrolment papers.
A good Second War ‘Battle of Forli - Italy operations’ immediate D.C.M. group of six awarded to Sergeant H. C. Carpenter, 2nd Battalion, Royal Fusiliers, for his gallantry during hard fought house-to-house fighting on 11-12 November 1944 Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.VI.R. (6465807 A. Sjt. H. C. Carpenter. R. Fus.) edge bruise; 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, 1 copy clasp, 8th Army; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, generally very fine (6) £2,600-£3,000 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 26 April 1945. The original recommendation states: ‘On the afternoon of 11th November, 1944, ‘Z’ Company were ordered to move from ‘X’ roads to capture some houses. On approaching some factory buildings the Company came under intense fire at close range from Machine guns and bazookas stationed in these buildings. The right hand Platoon was completely pinned down and the left hand one No. 16 Platoon, commanded by Sergeant Carpenter went to ground. Sergeant Carpenter quickly rallied his platoon, and leading them in a skilful left flanking movement succeeded in by-passing the factory and infiltrating his platoon to a FUP for an attack on his final objective taking 5 prisoners on the way. These houses were strongly held and the enemy opened small arms fire on No. 16 Platoon. In spite of this Sergeant Carpenter led his Platoon in an attack on the houses which he succeeded in capturing, killing three Germans and taking a further 8 prisoners. The Platoon was now almost surrounded, with enemy at very close quarters but Sergeant Carpenter consolidated his objective and later made his way back alone to guide ‘X’ Company forward to reinforce his platoon. He then, under orders, withdrew his platoon into ‘Z’ Company reserve, and thereafter throughout the night organised and led carrying parties with food for the forward troops of both ‘X’ and ‘Z’ Companies, who were in very close contact with the enemy. His unbounded cheerfulness throughout was a wonderful inspiration to all ranks. His daring and initiative in getting his platoon through the enemy positions to capture his objective, and finally his personal courage and dash in the final assault and clearance of the houses turned the immediate stalemate into a very favourable position, forced the enemy to withdraw from the factory buildings before daylight, and proved to be the deciding factor in the success of the whole Battalion operation.’ Herbert Charles Carpenter served with “Z” Company, 2nd Battalion, Royal Fusiliers during the Second World War. He distinguished himself as part of the 8th Army in the fighting in and around Forli, Italy, in November 1944 - in particular during house-to-house fighting in the appalling winter conditions. After the War, Carpenter resided at 47 St. Raphaels Way, Neasden, London. Sold with official typed copy of citation, and War Office enclosure for citation addressed to recipient and dated 1 March 1954.
A fine Second War ‘London Blitz’ G.M. pair awarded to Police Constable W. Griffiths, Metropolitan Police George Medal, G.VI.R., 1st issue (Willis Griffiths); Defence Medal, the first with repaired suspension loop, good very fine (2) £2,800-£3,400 --- Provenance: Dix Noonan Webb, September 2009. G.M. London Gazette 28 March 1941. The original recommendation states: ‘In the Enfield area of Middlesex, in the northern suburbs, a high explosive bomb practically demolished a house in Bush Hill Road, Winchmore Hill, at 11.15 p.m. on 1 December 1940, fracturing gas and water mains and trapping a woman below the debris. P.C. W. Griffiths, together with Inspector J. C. Pulham, climbed over the debris, broke down a door and removed many bricks which were holding it fast. The Constable then cut through one of the rafters with a saw and was able to crawl below the floor, clearing a passage through the pile of bricks and mortar. Owing to the confined space this had to be done by scraping it away by hand and passing it back. The woman was found to be trapped behind a spring mattress, part of which was resting on her legs while another mattress was obstructing the approach to her. The two officers were able to drag the second mattress away with a rope and a small coal shovel was then used to remove sufficient debris to enable a doctor to reach the woman and give her an injection. A saw and some pliers were then passed to the constable who sawed through the mattress frame and released her legs and broke the spring away from the frame, allowing her to be released after the rescue action had taken two hours. On 16 November, the Inspector went to the rescue of a man entombed in a demolished house in Park Way, Enfield, where he had managed to wriggle under some wreckage and lift it in such a way that he took the weight of the casualty while other members of the party completed the rescue. On 13 November, he rescued an elderly woman casualty who was trapped in her bedroom in a house in Bush Hill Park by climbing a partially destroyed staircase to the third floor. Despite the fact that a fire had broken out in the house he carried her to safety.’ Willis Griffiths joined the Metropolitan Police in November 1926 and was posted to “Y” Division, a unit whose area of operations included parts of London, Hertfordshire and Middlesex. He was invested with his G.M. at Buckingham Palace on 21 December 1941. The attack launched on London on 1 December 1940 was a subsidiary raid to a large strike on Southampton, the Luftwaffe having to rely on ‘DR’ (Dead Reckoning) as cloud and mist obscured much of the city. Encountering medium flak of moderate accuracy, the 17 attacking aircraft dropped around 30 tonnes of H.E. bombs, most of the evening’s damage being sustained in the outer suburbs, of which Enfield was one.
A good Second War D.S.M. group of eight awarded to Chief Petty Officer J. R. L. Appleby, Royal Navy, who was decorated for his gallant deeds in the 15-inch gun monitor H.M.S. Erebus off Le Havre in September 1944 Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (P.O. J. R. L. Appleby, P/JX. 125653); 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star, 1 clasp, France and Germany; Burma Star; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45; Naval General Service 1915-62, 1 clasp, Minesweeping 1945-51 (P/JX. 125653 J. R. L. Apppleby, D.S.M., C.P.O., R.N.); Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., G.VI.R., 1st issue (P/JX. 125653 J. R. L. Apppleby, C.P.O., H.M.S. Sursay) minor official corrections to naming, polished, the DSM good fine, the rest better (8) £1,600-£2,000 --- Provenance: Dix Noonan Webb, September 2009. D.S.M. London Gazette 24 April 1945: ‘For skill, leadership and undaunted devotion to duty whilst serving on H.M. Ships Erebus and Roberts in the bombardment of Le Havre and Walcheren.’ The original recommendation states: ‘For undaunted devotion to duty when the ship was under accurate enemy fire during the bombardment of Le Havre, in maintaining a high rate of ammunition supply when adjoining compartments had been flooded by action damage.’ James Richard Leslie Appleby, a native of Reading, Berkshire, was serving as Captain of the Forecastle Division and employed in the 15-inch shell room of the monitor H.M.S. Erebus at the time of the above related deeds, his recommendation further revealing that he was present at the bombardments of Le Havre on 5, 8, and 10 September 1944 - her 15-inch guns inflicting serious damage on enemy installations, as indeed they had off Normandy that June, when engaging the batteries at Barfleur and La Pernelle. She went on to lend equally valuable support during Operation Infatuate, the assault on Walcheren in November 1944. Sold with copied research.
A Second War ‘aircraft carrier Pacific theatre’ D.S.M. group of six awarded to Ordnance Artificer J. G. Faulkner, Royal Navy, H.M.S. Indefatigable Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (O.A. 2 J. G. Faulkner. P/MX. 51368) on original mounting pin; 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Africa Star; Pacific Star; War Medal 1939-45, good very fine and better (6) £1,800-£2,200 --- D.S.M. London Gazette 1 January 1946. John Geoffrey Faulkner was serving early in the Second World War as an Ordnance Artificer aboard the battleship Royal Oak and was fortunate to have been on leave (7-15 October) when she was sunk by U-47 whilst at anchor in Scapa Flow on 14 October 1939, with the loss of 834 lives. Originally thought to have been one of those killed, his wife received an Admiralty condolence letter which was later illustrated together with his lucky ‘Leave Ticket’ in a book on the sinking of the Royal Oak. Faulkner most probably joined the ship’s company of the aircraft carrier H.M.S. Indefatigable when she was commissioned at Clydebank in mid-1944. If so, he would have served off Norway prior to Indefatigable’s departure for the Pacific in November of the same year. More certain is the fact he was decorated for services in that ship in the Pacific (Seedie’s refers). By early 1945, the Fleet Air Arm aircraft of the carriers Indefatigable, Illustrious, Victorious and Indomitable were hotly engaged against assorted Japanese targets with the British Pacific Fleet during Operation ‘Iceberg’, with air strikes on the Sakishima Islands and in support of the U.S. landings at Okinawa, 23 March to 25 May 1945. It was at the commencement of the latter operation, on 1 April 1945, that Indefatigable became the first British victim of a kamikaze aircraft, being hit on the flight deck above her ‘island’ superstructure, the detonation of the Zero’s 500lb bomb wrecking both flight deck barriers, the flight deck sick bay and the briefing room - eight men were killed instantly, and the final casualty total was four officers and ten ratings killed, and 16 wounded. Five days later it was the turn of Illustrious to suffer a similar kamikaze attack. Following repairs at Sydney, Indefatigable returned to an operational footing, and her aircraft were in action right up until 15 August 1945, on which date they fought the last air-to-air combat of the War. Throughout this period she remained under threat from further kamikaze attacks. Most probably, however, the catalyst behind the award of Faulkner’s D.S.M. dated back to Indefatigable’s first painful experience of ‘The Divine Wind’ on 1 April 1945. Sold with a contemporary ‘Track Chart of H.M.S. Indefatigable from Commissioning 10th Dec. 1943 - Arrival at Portsmouth 16th March 1946’, and copied research.
A fine Great War ‘Battle of the Somme’ M.M. group of nine awarded to Corporal R. Taylor, Royal Horse Artillery, late Royal Field Artillery Military Medal, G.V.R. (30493 Cpl. R. Taylor. ‘Q’ By: R.H.A.); Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 2 clasps, Cape Colony, Orange Free State (30493 Tptr: R. Taylor, 88th. Bty., R.F.A.); King’s South Africa 1901-02, 2 clasps, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 (30493 Tptr: R. Taylor. R.F.A.); 1914 Star, with clasp (30493 Bmbr: R. Taylor. R.H.A.); British War and Victory Medals (30493 Cpl. R. Taylor. R.A.); Delhi Durbar 1903, silver, unnamed as issued, lacking integral riband buckle; Army L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue (30493 Cpl. R. Taylor. R.H.A.); France, Third Republic, Croix de Guerre, bronze, reverse dated 1914-1917, with bronze palm emblem on riband, minor contact marks to Boer War awards, otherwise good very fine and better (9) £800-£1,000 --- M.M. London Gazette 27 October 1916. Ralph Taylor was born in Chatham, Kent, in 1884. A 14 year-old drummer boy - just 4ft 10 inches in stature - he attested for the Royal Artillery in London on 4 October 1898, and served with 88th Battery, Royal Field Artillery during the Boer War. Transferred to “T” Battery, he remained in South Africa until 22 January 1904. Sent to India, Taylor was advanced Gunner on 16 March 1903, Acting Bombardier 15 July 1904, and Bombardier 14 May 1906. Later transferred to “Q” Battery, Royal Horse Artillery, Taylor was appointed Corporal on 1 January 1910 and entered the French theatre of War with this unit on 11 November 1914. Initially serving as part of the Sialkot Brigade in the 1st Indian Cavalry Division, “Q” Battery was soon in action at the Battle of Neuve Chapelle in March 1915, supporting 8th Division. Concentrated in a large semicircle, the guns were brought up by night with the aim of cutting the enemy wire which lay 15 yards deep in places. On 10 March 1915, the guns opened up, but the infantry attack was soon brought to a standstill by cleverly concealed German strong points. Transferred to the Somme in the early spring of 1916, Taylor likely spent much of his time maintaining the guns in the face of adverse weather and the endless mud. Awarded the Military Medal and Army L.S.G.C. Medal per Army Order 125 on 1 April 1917, his luck finally ran out on 1 July 1918 when he was wounded in action. Sent to the 1st South African General Hospital, the abrasion to his face was sufficient to necessitate evacuation to England per Hospital Ship St. Andrew. He was discharged upon termination of his second period of engagement on 3 September 1921. Sold with copied service record and extensive private research. Note: Entitlement to the Delhi Durbar 1903 Medal, the clasp to 1914 Star; and the French Croix de Guerre all unconfirmed.
A fine Great War 1917 ‘Battle of Menin Road Ridge’ M.M. group of four awarded to Gunner J. Convery, Royal Horse Artillery, who was killed in action on 10 August 1918 Military Medal, G.V.R. (54959 Gnr: J. Convery. ‘N’ By: R.H.A.); 1914 Star, with clasp (54959 Gnr: J. Convery, R.H.A.); British War and Victory Medals (54959 A.Bmbr. J. Convery. R.A.) good very fine (4) £240-£280 --- M.M. London Gazette 2 November 1917. Joseph Convery was born in Glasgow in 1890, and enlisted for service with the Royal Horse Artillery around 1908. Returned from India with his regiment, Convery was posted to France with “H” Battery on 27 September 1914, and saw considerable action at Messines in October 1914. Transferred to “N” Battery, the War Diary entry for August 1917 makes for interesting reading: ‘Place Lievin 30th Aug. ‘N’ Battery heavily shelled. During the month the battery fired 15,360 rounds. The undermentioned had the honour to receive the Military Medal; Bdr. Oakley J., A.Bdr. Wallace H., Gnr. Convery J. Linesman, the O.P. situated in the Bois de Riaument was constantly shelled, it had very little cover. The devotion to duty shown by the subaltern officers, telephonist and linesmen was beyond all praise.’ Remaining on the Western Front, Convery was killed in action on 10 August 1918, and is buried in Beacon Cemetery, Sailly-Laurette, France.
Three: Gunner F. Pennell, Royal Marine Artillery China 1857-60, 1 clasp, Taku Forts 1858 (F. Pennell, Gunr. R.M.A. H.M.S. Cormorant); Abyssinia 1867 (F. Pennell Gunr. R.M.A. H.M.S. Satellite); Ashantee 1873-74, no clasp (F. Pennell. Gunr. R.M.A. H.M.S. Simoom. 73-74) contact marks, otherwise nearly very fine (3) £500-£700 --- Provenance: Glendining’s, September 1977. Frank Pennell landed with the Naval Brigade in the Ashantee campaign. Sold with copied medal roll extracts for both the Abyssinia and Ashantee medals.
A Great War ‘German Spring Offensive’ M.M. group of four awarded to Gunner T. Miller, Royal Horse Artillery Military Medal, G.V.R. (88156 Gnr: T. Miller. ‘U’ By: R.H.A.); 1914-15 Star (88156 Gnr. T. Miller. R.H.A.); British War and Victory Medals (88156 Gnr. T. Miller. R.A.) edge bruise to first, very fine (4) £240-£280 --- M.M. London Gazette 16 July 1918. Thomas Miller was born in Tottenham, Middlesex, on 16 November 1894. He enlisted into the Royal Horse Artillery on 2 November 1914, and served in France from 1 April 1915. Appointed Acting Shoeing Smith four days later, he was posted to 16 Brigade Royal Horse Artillery Ammunition Column, and was thus present during the Second Battle of Ypres from 22 April to 25 May 1915. This action witnessed the first German deployment of poison gas, followed by further attacks on the Frezenberg and Bellewaarde Ridges which effectively brought both sides to an exhausted standstill. Posted to “U” Battery on 2 August 1917, Miller witnessed the destruction of a number of his battery guns on the first day of the German Spring Offensive near Le Verjiubr. Relocated to Montigny and then the Amiens Road, the War Diary for 16 Brigade, Royal Horse Artillery, adds: ‘Killing enemy until they got to a very short range.’ Awarded the Military Medal, Miller survived the war and remained in service with “B” Battery, Royal Horse Artillery. His Army Service Record shows, however, that his life changed beyond measure in early 1920, when his father recalled him home: ‘I have had the misfortune to have his mother knocked down by a motor causing her to have her legs smashed... and I have been waiting to go under an operation myself with a double rupture.’ Sold with extensive copied research.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. awarded to Gunner A. Saunders, Royal Horse Artillery Military Medal, G.V.R. (52578 Gnr: A. Saunders. J.3/Bde: R.H.A.) contact marks and light polishing, nearly very fine £200-£240 --- M.M. London Gazette 12 December 1917. Arthur Saunders, a resident of Netherfield, served in France from 15 August 1914 with 3rd Brigade, Royal Horse Artillery. Attached to “J” Battery, his unit took part in the retreat from Mons and rearguard action at Bonnet, and witnessed extensive action at Loos, where Battery Sergeant Major L. J. Hansell won the Military Medal for putting out an ammunition fire in the heat of battle on 5 October 1917: ‘The enemy shelled the gun position from 8am till 7pm with 15cm howitzer and 20cm howitzer - the battery position was very much knocked about and number six gun pit had a direct hit on it completely destroying the gun and setting light to a good deal of ammunition.’ Interestingly, the Battery War Diary adds: ‘Sergeant Durham, Corporal Hansell, Corporal Butler, and Gunner Saunders awarded the Military Medal for gallantry in action on the 4th and 5th.’ Sold with copied research.
A scarce Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. group of four awarded to 2nd Corporal R. E. Simons, Inland Water Transport, Royal Engineers Military Medal, G.V.R. (105955 L.Cpl. R. E. Simons. Inld: Wtr: Trans. R.E.); 1914-15 Star (105955 Spr. R. E. Simons. R.E.); British War and Victory Medals (105955 2 Cpl. R. E. Simons. R.E.) mounted as worn, good very fine (4) £300-£400 --- M.M. London Gazette 19 February 1917. Roland Edward Simons was born in Gravesend, Kent, in 1887. A River Thames Lighterman, he attested for the Royal Engineers Inland Water Transport in London on 28 June 1915, and served with them during the Great War on the Western Front from 27 September 1915 - the Inland Water Transport barges were used to transport supplies to forward areas and ambulance barges were used to transport the badly wounded who were unable to tolerate the movement caused by being transported by train or lorry. He was appointed Lance Corporal on 26 February 1916, and was promoted 2nd Corporal on 9 December of that year, and was awarded the Military Medal in February 1917, a late Somme award. Evacuated to the U.K. on 23 June 1917 suffering from arthritis and rheumatism, the result of active service, he returned to France on 15 December 1917, remaining there for the rest of the War. He was demobilised on 14 February 1919. Returning to Gravesend and his former occupation as a Lighterman, he took his own life at home on 30 October 1934, the day before he was due in court to answer a charge of fraudulent conversion. Sold with copied research.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. awarded to Lance-Corporal E. Bryan, Cheshire Regiment Military Medal, G.V.R. (61401 L.Cpl. E. Bryan. 15/Ches: R.) heavily polished, contact marks, fine £140-£180 --- M.M. London Gazette 30 October 1917. Edward Bryan was born in Levenshulme, Lancashire, in 1893. He attested at Stockport for the Cheshire Regiment on 10 March 1914, serving in France with the 6th Battalion from 10 November 1914. Awarded the Military Medal whilst serving with the 15th Battalion, his Army Service Record notes that he was gassed on 10 November 1917 and returned home soon thereafter. Decorated with his MM at Chester on 17 February 1918, Bryan was discharged surplus to military requirements on 5 February 1919.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. group of four awarded to Private F. J. Harding, Royal Welsh Fusiliers Military Medal, G.V.R. (14464 Pte. F. J. Harding. 13/R.W. Fus:); 1914-15 Star (14464 Pte. F. J. Harding. R.W. Fus:); British War and Victory Medals (14464 Pte. F. J. Harding. R.W. Fus.) light contact marks, nearly very fine and better (4) £260-£300 --- M.M. London Gazette 24 January 1919. Frederick John Harding attested for the Royal Welsh Fusiliers and served with them during the Great War on the Western Front from 6 September 1915. He was awarded the Military Medal whilst serving with the 13th Battalion, and was demobilised on 16 January 1919.
A Second War ‘North Africa’ M.M. group of six awarded to Fitter Gunner First Class W. F. Davey, Royal Horse Artillery, later Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, who displayed considerable courage on more than one occasion when attacked by the tanks of Rommel’s Afrika Korps Military Medal, G.VI.R. (791729 L.Sjt. W. F. Davey. R.A.) suspension claw slightly loose; 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, 1 clasp, 8th Army; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf, mounted court-style for display, minor contact marks, good very fine and better (6) £800-£1,000 --- M.M. London Gazette 18 February 1943. The original Recommendation states: ‘This Sergeant Fitter has done some magnificent work both in maintaining the Battery’s vehicles and recovering vehicles from dangerous country in front of our O.Ps. On several occasions, he has worked on abandoned vehicles under heavy shell fire until he has been able to drive them back into our lines. On one occasion, in the last campaign, he continued to work on a broken down portee while in the middle of a tank battle. This N.C.O.’s consistent courage, cheerfulness and complete disregard of his own safety has been an outstanding example to the other men of the Battery, and he has been responsible for saving a large number of vehicles from either falling into the enemy’s hands or being destroyed.’ William Frederick Davey was born in the Parish of Fratton, Portsmouth, on 8 January 1915. He attested for the Royal Artillery as a 14 year-old schoolboy on 1 May 1929, and was immediately sent to the Military College of Science at Woolwich. He mustered as Gunner on 8 January 1933, and served in Cairo from 17 August 1936 in the rank of Bombardier Artificer. Posted to “D” Battery, 3 Brigade, Royal Horse Artillery, on 1 August 1939, Davey witnessed extensive active service in North Africa and was recommended for a B.E.M. in March 1942 whilst serving with 7th Armoured Division. Downgraded to a ‘mention’ (London Gazette 9 September 1942), the surviving WO 373/88 entry offers a good insight as to the intensity of the campaign at that time: ‘Bdr (Art) William Frederick Davey., 3 Regt. R.H.A., 791729., On 21 Nov. 1942 near Sidi Rezegh the B Echelon of 7 Sp. Gp. was attacked by a large number of German tanks and thrown into considerable confusion. Bdr. Davey immediately collected up the vehicles of his battery and several others of other units which were under fire from the tanks and led them to a safe place. Bdr. Davey’s prompt action undoubtedly saved many of these vehicles and their drivers and much valuable equipment from being captured. Throughout the past two years in the Western Desert Bdr. Davey has shown untiring devotion to duty. On many occasions he has worked under fire in the forward area and repaired guns and portees thereby enabling them to be brought into action with the least possible delay.’ Davey saw further active service in Normandy from 18 June 1944, being granted the substantive rank of Sergeant. Transferred to the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, he was posted to 21 Advance base workshop and re-mustered as Fitter Gunner 2nd Class in the spring of 1945. Following a brief spell with BAOR, he was finally discharged upon completion of engagement on 10 February 1954. Sold with extensive copied research including the recipient’s Army Service Record.
A Second War 1944 ‘Monte Cassino operations’ immediate M.M. group of six awarded to Sergeant A. D. Cullum, Royal Corps of Signals, for repeated gallantry at the end of April 1944 Military Medal, G.VI.R. (830700 Sjt. A. D, Cullum. R. Signals.) in named box of issue; 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, generally very fine (6) £1,200-£1,600 --- M.M. London Gazette 24 August 1944. The original recommendation states: ‘Sergeant Cullum was the Section Sergeant of the Signals Section, attached to Headquarters, 12 Infantry Brigade. He was ordered by his Brigade Signal Officer to reconnoitre and lay a line from M.M.G. Headquarters near Pasquale to the Headquarters of a company occupying Cassino Castle, on the 25th April 1944. As the line was of extreme importance and urgency, Sergeant Cullum made an attempt at night, twice wading the Rapido River, and across country suspected of containing mines, without prior reconnaissance. This attempt unfortunately failed. On the 26th April 1944, he carried out a further reconnaissance in daylight across ground in full view of the enemy. This line has since been subjected to considerable shelling and mortaring; but due to Sergeant Cullum’s untiring efforts and determination, maintenance has been carried out continuously and in addition all other extensive line communications of the Brigade have been kept through. His steadfast devotion to duty and complete disregard to danger in the face of the enemy have been of the highest order.’ Albert Doughty Cullum served with E Section 4 Divisional Signals, attached Headquarters 12 Infantry Brigade, 13 Corps as part of operations during the Battle of Monte Cassino during the Second World War.
A Second War 1944 ‘Italy operations’ immediate M.M. group of five awarded to Corporal S. C. Barnes, 5th Battalion, The Buffs, for his gallantry in leading his section in taking prisoners and repelling a Platoon strength enemy attack on his position during the advance near Ripi, 30/31 May 1944 Military Medal, G.VI.R. (6405804 A. Cpl. S. C. Barnes. The Buffs.); 1939-45 Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, nearly very fine (5) £1,000-£1,400 --- M.M. London Gazette 7 December 1944. The original recommendation states: ‘On 30th May 1944, Corporal Barnes was a section commander in the leading platoon of the 5th Battalion, The Buffs, during the advanced on Point 271, near Ripi. On arrival on the objective, Corporal Barnes led his section with great skill and daring and succeeded in taking five German prisoners. His platoon then consolidated the position on this feature. Shortly after placing his section a German despatch rider walked towards his position. Corporal Barnes immediately jumped up and chased after him, firing as he advanced. Immediately following on this incident, his section was attacked by approximately a platoon of enemy. Corporal Barnes remained perfectly calm and commanded his section with great courage and determination. The attackers were driven off, having suffered severe casualties. There were no casualties at all in Corporal Barnes’ section. During the following night, Corporal Barnes gave great help to the Company stretcher-bearers who were trying to evacuate the Company Commander, who had been badly wounded. Throughout the whole operation, Corporal Barnes led his section with great skill and set a magnificent example to all the men in his section. It was largely due to his great efforts that the Company was able to hold on to the position against all enemy attacks.’ Sidney Charles Barnes served during the Second World War with the 5th Battalion, The Buffs as part of the 36th Infantry Brigade, 78th Division, XII Corps in Italy.
A fine Second War 1944 ‘North West Europe’ immediate M.M. group of five awarded to Lance Sergeant H. V. Dawson, 10th Battalion, Highland Light Infantry, who was originally recommended for a D.C.M. for his gallantry leading a patrol to capture a prisoner north of Eindhoven in September 1944 - during which he captured nine enemy soldiers, personally silenced a sniper, and successfully withdrew his men as well as the prisoners, all whilst under machine gun fire. He received gunshot wounds to both legs in October 1944 Military Medal, G.VI.R. (5187671 L. Sjt. H. V. Dawson. H.L.I.); 1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted for wear, with photographic image of recipient in uniform, light contact marks overall, nearly very fine (5) £1,200-£1,600 --- M.M. London Gazette 1 March 1945. The original recommendation (for a D.C.M.) states: ‘On 27th September, Lance Sergeant Dawson was specially selected to carry out a particularly hazardous patrol in the area of Donderonk [north of Eindhoven]. The ground was close, abounding in ditches in which the enemy had made excellent fire positions which were very hard to locate even at short ranges. Lance Sergeant Dawson was ordered to take out a patrol of four men to capture at least one of the enemy in order to obtain an identification. His first contact was with nine enemy whom he skilfully surprised from the rear and who, after a short encounter surrendered to him. Having thus achieved his object, he disarmed the prisoners and while doing so an enemy sniper not previously located opened fire. Lance Sergeant Dawson attempted to kill this man with a sten gun but it would not fire. He immediately picked up an M.P. 40 and killed the sniper. The result of the shooting was to arouse a previously unlocated enemy machine gun post which opened fire with the object of preventing the return of the patrol. Lance Sergeant Dawson, in spite of the encumbrance of nine prisoners, ordered his patrol into fire position from which the enemy could be engaged. Without thought for his personal safety and with the greatest coolness under heavy and accurate fire he manoeuvred his patrol and wiped out the enemy post. He then disengaged his party and returned to battalion Headquarters without loss. There he gave a most excellent and concise report containing much valuable information. This information, supplemented by that obtained from his prisoners, proved invaluable in subsequent patrolling which had to be carried out on this front. Lance Sergeant Dawson’s leadership and calmness in danger was the success of this hazardous patrol. His aggressive attitude and keenness to seek out the enemy and destroy them was a fine example of courage and determination which was followed by his men.’ Harold Victor Dawson was born in April 1917. He resided at 11 Bondway, Vauxhall, London. He served during the Second World War with the 10th Battalion, Highland Light Infantry. The latter served as part of the 227th Highland Infantry Brigade, 15th (Scottish) Division, XII Corps in North West Europe. XII Corps played a subsidiary role securing the left flank of XXX Corps' main thrust during Operation Market Garden, but the 15th (Scottish) had five days' hard fighting in securing the town of Best (Donderonk being just to the north), just beyond the Wilhelmina Canal and north of Eindhoven. Dawson received gunshot wounds to both legs in October 1944 - at the end of that month the Battalion were engaged in heavy fighting to capture the town of Tilburg.
A Sea Gallantry Medal group of six awarded to Leading Boatman H. O. Welch, H.M. Coast Guard Sea Gallantry Medal, E.VII.R., small 2nd issue, silver (Henry Oscar Welch, “Bessie Arnold” 28th December 1908) suspension tightened/refitted; British War Medal 1914-20 (162859 H. O. Welch, Lg. Btn., R.N.); Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., E.VII.R. (162859 H. O. Welch, Boatn., H.M. Coast Guard); Jubilee 1935, unnamed as issued; Life Saving Medal, 40mm, bronze, the obverse featuring a lifeboat being rowed towards a sailing ship in distress in high seas; the reverse inscribed (name engraved) ‘To H. O. Welch, he risked his own to save another’s life’; Marine Society Reward of Merit, silver, the reverse inscribed, ‘Henry Oscar Welch, 5th June 1902’, mounted for court-style display, edge bruising and contact marks, nearly very fine and better (6) £700-£900 --- Henry Oscar Welch was born in Chigwell, Essex on 8 May 1876. He entered the Royal Navy as a Boy Second Class from the training ship Warspite on 13 September 1891 and attained the rank of Petty Officer 2nd Class in May 1903. In March 1904 he transferred to the Coastguard as a Boatman, being advanced to Leading Boatman in January 1912. He served at various Scottish stations until he was demobilised in July 1919. He was awarded his L.S. & G.C. in May 1905. As a Boatman of the Coastguard at Kildonan, Welch was awarded one of 74 E.VII.R. small second type silver Sea Gallantry Medals for an incident on 28 December 1908. The official citation states: ‘The Bessie Arnold, of Whitehaven, stranded 9 miles from the Life Saving Apparatus Station at Kildonan. A rocket was fired but no one on board secured the line. A body was seen among the wreckage and Welch at great risk entered the surf and brought it ashore, where life was found to be extinct. The other three of the crew were also drowned.’ (taken from BT261/5). The Bessie Arnold had left Millom bound for Glasgow on 26 December 1908. She stranded in a severe gale at Sliddery, on the Isle of Arran. The James Stevens No.2, the lifeboat based at Campeltown was launched and approaching the ship, saw that the crew were still aboard. But as the lifeboat drew near she was thrown onto the schooner’s deck and holed and one of her crew was cast into the raging sea. Remarkably the lifeboatman was rescued and the damaged ship made its way back to Campeltown whilst the coastguardmen on shore began their rescue efforts. Sold with copied service papers and other research.
A pre-War Sea Gallantry Medal awarded to L. H. Davies, for the rescue of the Royal Party from the wreck of the S.S. Delhi off Cape Spartel, Morocco, on 13 December 1911 Sea Gallantry Medal, G.V.R., bronze (Leonard H. Davies. "Delhi" 13. Dec. 1911.) polished, very fine £300-£400 --- The 8,090-tonne Peninsular and Oriental liner Delhi with 85 first class passengers on board, including the Duke and Duchess of Fife (H.R.H. the Princess Royal) and their two daughters, Princess Alexandra and Princess Maud, was bound from London to Bombay via Marseilles. At about 2:00 a.m. on 13 December 1911, the ship ran ashore in very rough weather some two miles from Cape Spartel. There was a strong westerly wind and very heavy rain. A wireless call was immediately sent out and was picked up by the station at Cadiz and within a short time several men-of-war were speeding to the wreck. Amongst the first ships to arrive were H.M.S. London and H.M.S. Duke of Edinburgh. At about 11:00 a.m. Rear-Admiral Sir C. Cradock brought a boat from the Duke of Edinburgh alongside and with great difficulty took off the Royal Party from the Delhi. On her way back the boat was swamped not far from shore and everyone thrown into the water, Princess Alexandra having a narrow escape from drowning. Eventually all came to land safely. 6 silver and 13 bronze Sea Gallantry Medals were awarded for this action.
An inter-War Sea Gallantry Medal and Liverpool Shipwreck and Humane Society pair awarded to Chief Officer S. C. S. Taws, Mercantile Marine, who died on 3 March 1942 following the torpedoing and sinking of the S.S. City of Manchester off Java Sea Gallantry Medal, G.V.R., bronze (Stephen Corner Stephenson Taws "Selma Creaser" 30th October. 1927) in fitted case of issue; Liverpool Shipwreck and Humane Society, Marine Medal, silver (To Stephen C. S. Taws.. 2nd Off. S/S "City of Lahore." For Gallant Service. 30/10/27.) mounted on a black riband with integral top riband bar, in fitted case of issue, edge bruise to latter, very fine (2) £600-£800 --- S.G.M. London Gazette 12 March 1929: 'In recognition of gallantry displayed by them on the 30th October 1927, in saving the lives of the crew of the Newfoundland schooner Selma Creaser, which was in distress in the Atlantic Ocean. Stephen Corner Stephenson Taws, a native of Houston, Renfrewshire, was born in 1898 and was awarded the Liverpool Shipwreck and Humane Society Medal for the same action as his Sea Gallantry Medal; further details of that award featured in Northern Daily Mail on 10 December 1927: ‘Outward bound from New York for the Far East, the City of Lahore, sighted on October 30 last, at 5.25am, what proved to be the Newfoundland schooner Selma Creaser showing a flare and as soon as they passed the schooner fired a rocket. Passing under the stern of the schooner the steamer hailed her, and received the reply that they wished to be taken off and had no boat of their own. Heavy weather had prevailed for some considerable time and there was still a big sea running... Due to the heavy weather encountered, the Selma Creaser was badly strained and leaking so badly that her Captain deemed it advisable to set her on fire before leaving. When last seen the schooner was burning furiously.
In the boat sent away by the City of Lahore with the Chief Officer in charge was Mr Taws, Second Officer.’ Taws was subsequently aboard the City of Manchester when she was torpedoed by I53 off Java on 28 February 1942. Joseph Berkley, a member of the S.S. Tulsar, wrote to Mrs Taws on 19 March:
‘On the morning of the twenty eighth of February, I had the good fortune to be in the vicinity of the City of Manchester when she was torpedoed and her lifeboats were shelled by the Japanese. Among the wounded survivors received on board was your husband. My Doctor deemed his condition too critical to permit your husband's transfer to a hospital on shore. Three serious lung punctures required that he be kept quiet in order to have any chance of surviving. The following day, the first of March, which was a day of mass evacuation from Tjilatjap, Java, we left port with Mr Taws on board. In spite of three blood transfusions, oxygen and all other efforts, it was impossible to save his life. One the third of March about 6.40pm he passed away. Next day at 9.00am, I performed the funeral services and we buried him at sea. I hope you will forgive me for sending his remains to the deep, but under the circumstances it was the only thing left for me to do.’ Taws is commemorated upon the Tower Hill Memorial. Sold with an old hand-written copy of the above letter; and copied research.
A Second War R.V.M. group of eleven awarded to Warrant Officer Class I F. Wylde, Office Keeper at the Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace, late Royal Garrison Artillery 1914 Star, with clasp (26463 Cpl. F. Wylde. R.H.A.); British War and Victory Medals, with small M.I.D. oak leaves (26463 W.O.Cl.2. F. Wylde. R.A.); Defence Medal; Royal Victorian Medal, G.VI.R., 1st issue, silver, unnamed as issued; Jubilee 1935, unnamed as issued; Coronation 1937, unnamed as issued; Coronation 1953, unnamed as issued; Royal Household Faithful Service Medal, G.V.R., suspension dated ‘1913-1933’, 2 clasps, Thirty Years, Forty Years (F. Wylde); Army Meritorious Service Medal, G.V.R., 1st issue (191770 B.S.Mjr. F. Wylde. R.G.A.); Special Constabulary Faithful Service Medal, G.V.R., 1 clasp, War Service 1942 (Sergt. Frederick Wylde.) mounted court-style for display, lightly polished and lacquered, nearly very fine and better (11) £800-£1,000 --- M.S.M. London Gazette 3 June 1919. Frederick Theophilous Wylde was born in Wandsworth, London, on 29 May 1886. A ship’s steward, he attested for the Royal Regiment of Artillery at Woolwich on 21 August 1903 and witnessed early service overseas in India. Advanced Corporal on 29 June 1910 and briefly transferred to the Army Reserve, he took brief employment as Gate Keeper at the Royal Mews on 1 December 1912, before being recalled to service with 7 Brigade, Royal Horse Artillery, upon the outbreak of the Great War. Sent to France on 15 August 1914, Wylde was promoted Sergeant 4 January 1915 and Mentioned in Despatches on 21 May 1918. His valuable service was further recognised by the award of the M.S.M. as Battery Sergeant Major of “B” Anti-Aircraft Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery, and appointment as Warrant Officer 1st Class before the cessation of hostilities. Returning to London and his former civilian employment on the Staff of the Royal Household, Wylde was made Office Keeper at the Royal Mews on 1 October 1923 and was later awarded the Faithful Service Medal with 2 clasps. He is recorded in 1939 as living with his wife at the Royal Mews, and was thus likely present on 13 September 1940 when a German raider dropped five high explosive bombs on the Palace; the Royal chapel, inner quadrangle, entrance gates and Victoria Memorial were all hit, with four members of the Palace staff wounded and one killed. In a poignant statement, Queen Elizabeth is quoted as saying, ‘I’m glad we have been bombed. It makes me feel I can look the East-End in the face’. For Wylde, his day was almost certainly spent helping to clear up the mess, followed by an evening dedicated to the service of the Special Constabulary and A.R.P. Decorated with the R.V.M. on 2 June 1943, Wylde was re-designated Clerk at the Royal Mews on 1 January 1947, before retiring on 15 September 1955. As one of the most experienced members of staff, whose service to the Crown spanned over 40 years, Wylde was one of the true ‘old guard’. He died on 21 February 1970. Sold with copied research, including a photographic image of the recipient in later life wearing his medals.
A rare Second War B.E.M. and I.C.I. Gold Medal for Bravery pair awarded to Miss Catherine Munro, a Chargewoman at Imperial Chemical Industries’ Powfoot Powder Factory British Empire Medal, (Civil) G.VI.R., 1st issue (Miss Catherine Munro) on lady’s bow riband; Imperial Chemical Industries Gold Medal for Conspicuous Bravery, 38mm x 26mm, gold (9ct., 26.21g including riband, hallmarks for Birmingham 1938), the obverse inscribed ‘Awarded for Bravery’ with a lion rampant bearing the letters, ‘I.C.I.’, the reverse inscribed in raised letters (with name, locality and date engraved), ‘Presented to Catherine Munro by Imperial Chemical Industries Ltd for Conspicuous Bravery at Powfoot Works on 22nd February 1942’, with integral hallmarked gold brooch bar inscribed ‘Fortis’, in Thomas Fattorini, Birmingham, case, nearly extremely fine, rare (2) £800-£1,000 --- One of only 36 I.C.I. Medals for Bravery awarded from the date of the medal’s institution in 1929, and the last award in 1975. B.E.M. London Gazette 8 May 1942: Miss Catherine Munro, Chargewoman, Powder Factory, Imperial Chemical Industries Limited. ‘Miss Munro was loading a car with powder when she saw a flame issue from under the floor boards of the powder house. She sent her assistant to telephone for the Fire Brigade and, with a small hose, she returned to the compartment where the fire had developed. She played water on it until the Fire Brigade arrived. Close beside the fire was an uncovered car containing powder and although the fire spread to this she did not give up but continued to fight the flames. There was in the house at the time a large quantity of powder in a highly inflammable condition. By her prompt action the fire was kept under control until the arrival of the Fire Brigade. The damage to the house was negligible and work was resumed within twenty-four hours. Miss Munro showed courage without regard for her own safety being well aware of the possible consequences of the fire.’ Sold with named Ministry of Supply letter congratulating the recipient upon her award, dated 7 May 1942, and signed ‘Andrew R. Duncan’.
Three: Deputy Inspector-General E. Meade, Royal Navy, who was specially promoted to Fleet Surgeon for services at the bombardment of Alexandria on 11 July 1882 Abyssinia 1867 (E. Meade Asst. Surgn. H.M.S. Satellite); Egypt and Sudan 1882-89, dated reverse, 1 clasp, Alexandria 11th July (E. Meade, Staff Surgn. R.N., H.M.S. “Penelope”); Khedive’s Star, dated 1882, unnamed as issued, mounted as worn, good very fine (3) £900-£1,200 --- Edward Meade was born on 25 May 1836, and was appointed Assistant Surgeon in the Royal Navy on 4 August 1862. He served aboard Satellite 1866-70, including operations in Abyssinia (Medal), and was promoted to Staff Surgeon on 19 February 1876. He was Staff Surgeon of Penelope at the bombardment of Alexandria, 11 July 1882 (promoted), and during the Egyptian war (Medal with Alexandria Clasp; Khedive’s Bronze Star). Specially promoted to Fleet Surgeon, 11 July 1882, for services at the bombardment of Alexandria. Appointed Deputy Inspector-General of Hospitals and Fleets on the Retired List, 25 May 1891. Meade died of cardiac dropsy and ascites on 23 March 1924. Sold with a CD of research.
A Great War C.M.G. group of six awarded to Lieutenant-Colonel H. T. Cantan, Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion, Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry, who was killed in action in the front line at Arras on 16 April 1916 The Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St. George, C.M.G., Companion’s neck badge, silver-gilt and enamel, with short section of neck riband for display purposes; Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 4 clasps, Relief of Kimberley, Paardeberg, Driefontein, Transvaal (Capt. H. T. Cantan. 2/ D. of C.L.I.) engraved naming; King’s South Africa 1901-02, 2 clasps, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 Cpt. H. T. Cantan. D. of C.L.I.) engraved naming; 1914 Star (Major. H. T. Cantan. D. of Corn: L.I.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (Lt. Col. H. T. Cantan.); together the related miniature Boer War pair, these mounted as worn, minor enamel damage to the central medallions of the CMG and light contact marks to the Boer War pair, otherwise good very fine and better (6) £2,400-£2,800 --- C.M.G. London Gazette: 23 June 1915. M.I.D. London Gazettes 22 June 1915 and 15 June 1916. Henry Thomas Cantan was born in Kent in 1867 and served in the ranks of the King’s Royal Rifle Corps, rising to the rank of Colour Sergeant, prior to being commissioned into the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry on 18 May 1892. He served as Captain in South Africa during the Boer War, on duty under the Military Governor of Pretoria, and afterwards served commanding a section of 4th Mounted Infantry, where he was present at the Relief of Kimberley and took part in the operations in the Orange Free State, including the actions at Paardeberg and Driefontein. The medal roll for the Q.S.A. additionally notes that he also served attached to the South African Constabulary from December 1900 to August 1902. He was taken Prisoner of War on 31 March 1900 at Koornspruit, and was released at Waterval on 6 June 1900. In 1902 he was appointed Superintendent of Gymnasia at the Curragh. Cantan served with the 1st Battalion during the Great War on the Western Front from 15 November 1914, and was promoted temporary Lieutenant-Colonel on 16 December 1914, being confirmed in that rank on 1 March 1916. He was killed in action when in command of his battalion, in the front line at Arras, on 16 April 1916, and is buried at Faubourg d'Amiens Cemetery, France. Sold with copied research including a photographic image of the recipient.
The historically important C.B.E. group of five awarded to Lieutenant J. E. M. Carvell, 16th (County of London) Battalion (Queen’s Westminster Rifles), London Regiment, who was twice wounded during the Great War - rather than take a discharge he took a posting as an Instructor to the Portuguese Army from 1917-18, and then as a Staff Captain, HQ London District, 1918-19. A career diplomat, Carvell, when acting British Consul General in Munich in the 1930s, secured the freedom of some 300 Jews from Dachau, and in 2018 was posthumously recognised by the British Government as a ‘British Hero of the Holocaust’ The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, C.B.E. (Civil) Commander’s 2nd type neck badge, silver-gilt and enamel, with full and miniature width neck ribands, in DS&S case of issue; 1914-15 Star (Lieut. J. E. M. Carvell. 16/Lond. R.); British War and Victory Medals (Lieut. J. E. M. Carvell); Coronation 1953, unnamed as issued, in card box of issue, the Great War trio lacquered and mounted court-style by Spink, London, the Coronation Medal loose, good very fine (5) £1,800-£2,200 --- C.B.E. (Civil) London Gazette 2 January 1950: ‘John Eric Maclean Carvell Esq., His Majesty's Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary at Quito.’ John Eric MacLean Carvell was born on 12 August 1894 and was educated at Berkhamsted. He was commissioned Second Lieutenant on 9 September 1914 and was posted to the 16th (County of London) Battalion (Queen's Westminster Rifles), London Regiment as temporary Lieutenant on 30 November 1914. He served with them during the Great War on the Western Front from 23 January 1915, and was promoted Captain on 28 April 1917. Twice wounded (on the second occasion the bullet reputedly lodged between his heart and his lung), rather than take a discharge he took a posting as an Instructor to the Portuguese Army from 1917-18, and then as a Staff Captain, HQ London District, 1918-19. He transferred to the Territorial Force Reserve on 30 July 1919. A career diplomat, Carvell had various postings, firstly as British Consul to the Republic of Haiti, at Port au Prince, in 1920, followed by postings to Finisterre, France; Munich, Bavaria; State of Rio Grande do Sul at Porto Alegre, Brazil; and again at Munich, Bavaria, in the late 1930’. He was appointed British Consul General at Algiers, in 1942; Arizona, in 1946; Envoy Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Quito, Equador, in 1948; and Sofia, Bulgaria in 1951. He retired from the Foreign Service in 1954, and died at Bungay, Suffolk on 29 April 1978. As Consul General in Munich, Carvell used his position to issue certificates to 300 Jewish men imprisoned in Dachau concentration camp for ‘race defilement’ (marrying or having relationships with non-Jewish German women). These certificates enabled the men to leave the camp and travel to British Mandated Palestine in 1937. As a result of his and his colleagues’ efforts to aid the escape of Jews from Germany, a memorial plaque was unveiled at the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London. The plaque reads, 'To commemorate those British diplomats who by their personal endeavours helped to rescue victims of Nazi oppression’. Carvell was posthumously awarded the title ‘British Hero of the Holocaust’ in 2018, along with his counterpart in Lithuania, Sir Thomas Preston. The title ‘British Hero of the Holocaust’ is a special award given by the British Government to people who helped or rescued Jews and others facing Nazi persecution before and during the Second World War. The award was created in 2009 following a campaign by the Holocaust Educational Trust to ensure that their actions were properly recognised; the first awards were given in 2010.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ D.S.O., M.C. group of five awarded to Captain G. la C. Baudains, 9th (County of London) Battalion (Queen Victoria’s Rifles), London Regiment, attached 9th Battalion, Royal Fusiliers Distinguished Service Order, G.V.R., silver-gilt and enamel, with integral top riband bar; Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued; 1914-15 Star (2132 Pte. G. Baudains, 2-Lond. R.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (Capt. G. La C. Baudains.); together with British Expeditionary Force, Recreational Training silver fob prize medal, engraved ‘4th Army Infantry School, Individual Bayonet Competition, won by Cpt. G. La. C. Baudains M.C., 9th Roy. Fus.’, very fine and better (5) £2,400-£2,800 --- D.S.O. London Gazette 26 July 1918 ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in action. When in command of the right front company of his battalion, a heavy enemy attack drove back the battalion on his right, leaving his flank exposed. In spite of this, he held his support line position against greatly superior numbers, and inflicted heavy losses on the enemy. Subsequently he was entirely cut off, but continued to hold on until he judged that the troops in his rear had had time to take up a new position, when he fought his way out, being wounded while so doing. By his splendid courage and coolness he set a fine example to all with him.’ M.C. London Gazette 18 October 1917. M.I.D. London Gazette 30 December 1918. George La Croix Baudains was born at St. Helier, Jersey, in 1892 and was educated at Jersey Modern School and King’s College, London. He served initially with the 2nd (City of London) Battalion, London Regiment during the Great War on the Western Front from 6 January 1915, before being commissioned Second Lieutenant in the 9th (County of London) Battalion (Queen Victoria’s Rifles), London Regiment on 25 October 1916, and served as a Lieutenant and Captain attached to the 9th Battalion, Royal Fusiliers. He resigned his commission on 21 April 1921. He later served as an Assistant Inspector of Taxes, Inland Revenue Department, and died in Clapham, London, in October 1942.
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