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An important Boer War C.B. group of six awarded to Major-General C. D. Cooper, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, who commanded the regiment at the Battle of Colenso and was the first man into Ladysmith at the head of the Relieving Force The Most Honourable Order of The Bath (Military) C.B. Companion’s breast badge, silver-gilt and enamel, converted for neck wear, with short section of neck riband for display purposes; Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 5 clasps, Cape Colony, Tugela Heights, Relief of Ladysmith, Transvaal, Laing’s Nek (Maj. Genl. C. D. Cooper, C.B., R. Dub. Fus.) officially engraved naming; King’s South Africa, 2 clasps, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 (Col. C. D. Cooper. C.B., Staff) officially engraved naming; Coronation 1902, silver, unnamed as issued; Coronation 1911, unnamed as issued; together with the recipient’s Royal Dublin Fusiliers Regimental Medal, gold, inscribed on the edge (Maj. Gen. C. D. Cooper. C.B.), the suspension dated ‘1662-1911’, with gold riband bar inscribed ‘Colonel 13th March 1910’, and gold top suspension brooch inscribed ‘Old Toughs’, generally good very fine or better (6) £5,000-£7,000 --- Provenance: Dix Noonan Webb, June 1998. C.B. London Gazette 19 April 1901. Charles Duncan Cooper was born on 25 June 1849, the son of Brigadier-General G. L. Cooper, Royal Artillery, who was killed during the Relief of Lucknow. He was educated at Christ College, Finchley, and began his military career at 19 years of age as an Ensign in the 2nd Battalion, 103rd Regiment of Foot (Royal Bombay Fusiliers). He remained with that regiment, which became the 2nd Battalion, Royal Dublin Fusiliers in 1881, throughout his career. Cooper served as Adjutant to the 4th Battalion (Dublin City Militia) from 1885 to 1889. When the Boer War broke out in 1899, he was ordered to South Africa in command of the 2nd Battalion. After arriving there, and upon the wounding of the regimental commander, Cooper was breveted a full Colonel and took overall command. The Dublin Fusiliers formed part of General Sir Redvers Buller’s Western Field Force, comprising some 30,000 men, which was pushing its way to Natal to relieve the besieged garrison in the town of Ladysmith. During the advance he took part in the action at Lombard’s Kop, the battle of Colenso, Spion Kop, Vaal Krantz, Tugela Heights, and Pieter’s Hill. At Colenso the Dublins, led by Cooper, suffered very badly. General Hart, Commanding Officer of the Irish Brigade, of which the Dublins were a part, was of the old school and thought that correct assault tactics meant a repeat of parade ground drill in the face of the enemy. Cooper, however, had witnessed the effect of Boer Mauser fire in previous attacks and knew that to march shoulder to shoulder into battle was tantamount to suicide; especially so inasmuch as at Colenso the Dublins were to advance along a very narrow front against an entrenched enemy. Cooper spread his men out at intervals and ordered them forward. General Hart saw this movement and beckoned Cooper to his side. “Sir, you will close ranks to the proper order!” “General”, Cooper replied, “I fear the consequences, but do it I will!” The Dublins suffered a great many casualties in the attack, and they found themselves trapped in the open throughout the entire day before they could safely extricate themselves. Shortly after the battle of Pieter’s Hill, advance mounted units of Buller’s army made their way into Ladysmith. The siege was over and the Dublin Fusiliers were specially selected to march into Ladysmith at the head of the relieving force, and Colonel Cooper, on horseback, was the first man to enter the town. Cooper was promoted to the rank of local Major-General in March 1900, and given command of the 4th Infantry Brigade which he took through the operations in Natal, including the battle of Laing’s Nek. In July of that year he was appointed General Officer Commanding the Heidelberg sub-district. He was mentioned in Buller’s despatch of 30 March, 1900, ‘a thoroughly good officer who led his regiment thoroughly well’, and again on 9 November, ‘was appointed to command on General Lyttleton’s promotion. An excellent regimental C.O., has proved himself equally valuable in command of a brigade, and shown himself to be a resolute, capable commander.’ He was subsequently appointed a Companion of the Bath in recognition of his services during the Boer War. With the end of hostilities, Cooper was sent home to command 102nd regimental district, Naas, in 1903. In 1905 he was promoted Brigadier-General in command of the North Irish Regimental grouped districts, and retired from the army in 1906 as a Major-General. He was made Colonel of the Royal Dublin Fusiliers on 13 March 1910, a position he held until his death on 31 July 1922. Sold with copied research including a photographic image of the recipient. For the recipient’s related miniature awards see Lot 528; and for a related silver chalice and the recipient’s watch fob see Lots 501 and 502. For the recipient’s son’s Queen’s South Africa Medal see Lot 369.

An outstanding post-War C.M.G., Great War D.S.O. and Second War Bar, Great War M.C. group of fourteen awarded to Colonel Allan ‘Jiggy’ Spowers, Commanding 2/24th Australian Infantry Battalion, he was awarded both the D.S.O. and M.C. in 1916 whilst serving as a second lieutenant in Mesopotamia with the East Lancashire Regiment, and a Second Award Bar to his D.S.O. in 1945 following his capture in the Western Desert at El Alamein in July 1942 The Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St. George, C.M.G., Companion’s neck badge, silver-gilt and enamel; Distinguished Service Order, G.V.R., undated as issued, with Second Award Bar, the reverse officially dated ‘1945’, silver-gilt and enamel, with integral top riband bar; Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued; 1914-15 Star (2. Lieut. A. Spowers. E. Lan. R.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (Lieut. A. Spowers.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; Australia Service Medal, these last five all officially impressed ‘VX14840 A. Spowers’; Jubilee 1935, unnamed as issued; Coronation 1953, unnamed as issued; Sweden, Kingdom, Royal Order of the Vasa, Knight’s breast badge, gold and enamel, medals unmounted, generally good very fine or better (14) £5,000-£7,000 --- C.M.G. London Gazette 2 January 1956: ‘For public services in the State of Victoria.’ D.S.O. London Gazette 22 December 1916: ‘For distinguished service in the field in Mesopotamia.’ D.S.O. Second Award Bar London Gazette 15 November 1945: ‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the field.’ M.C. London Gazette 24 June 1916; citation published 26 July 1916: ‘For conspicuous gallantry in leading a night attack on the enemy’s position, although twice wounded.’ M.I.D. London Gazette 19 October 1916; 30 December 1941 (Middle East); 15 December 1942 (Middle East). Allan Spowers (1892-1968), army officer and company director, was born on 9 July 1892 at South Yarra, Melbourne, only son and third of six children of William George Lucas Spowers, a journalist from New Zealand, and his London-born wife Annie Christina, née Westgarth. Ethel Spowers was his elder sister. Allan attended Miss Turner’s school and boarded (from 1905) at Geelong Church of England Grammar School. Nicknamed ‘Jiggie’, he became a prefect and captain of boats. He entered the University of Melbourne (B.A., 1920) in 1912, but interrupted his studies to travel to England where he enlisted in the British Army and was commissioned in the East Lancashire Regiment on 4 May 1915. Attached to the regiment’s 6th Battalion, Spowers fought at Suvla Bay, Gallipoli, in August and in Mesopotamia in the following year. He won the Military Cross (1916) for leading his men in a night-attack during which he was twice wounded. In addition, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Order (1916) and was mentioned in dispatches. He was promoted lieutenant in April 1917 and demobilised from the army in July 1919. Returning to Melbourne, he worked as a journalist on the Argus and Australasian. At the 1930 Imperial Press Conference in London he represented these newspapers; within a few years he was a director of the company that ran them. On 29 April 1922 at St Mark’s Church of England, Darling Point, Sydney, he had married Rosamond Sandys Lumsdaine, a niece of A. B. (’Banjo’) Paterson. In 1928-33 Spowers served in the militia. He was mobilised as a captain in the 46th Battalion in September 1939 and promoted major in November. Transferring to the Australian Imperial Force in May 1940, he was promoted lieutenant colonel and appointed commander of the 2nd/24th Battalion in July. Six ft 1 in. tall and sparely built, with penetrating grey-blue eyes and a commanding voice, he maintained high standards of conduct, insisted on mental and physical toughness, and disdained pretentiousness. The 2nd/24th arrived in the Middle East in December 1940, withdrew to Tobruk, Libya, in April 1941 and was besieged there until October. In January 1942 the battalion was sent to Syria for intensive training. Spowers was twice mentioned in dispatches for his services. Ordered back to the Western Desert in June in response to the German advance into Egypt, he and his men played a leading role in the battle of Tel el Eisa. Lieutenant General Sir Leslie Morshead described Spowers’s leadership as ‘outstandingly meritorious’ and he was to be awarded a Bar (1945) to his D.S.O. On 12 July 1942 he became a prisoner of war when his jeep was inadvertently driven into enemy territory. Freed in Germany in March 1945 and repatriated in August, Spowers was appointed temporary colonel and director of amenities, Army Headquarters, Melbourne. He transferred to the Reserve of Officers on 17 July 1946. Although he resigned from the board of the Argus and Australasian Ltd in 1949, he held a number of other directorships and chaired (1951-59) the Victorian division of the Australian Red Cross Society. In 1956 he was appointed C.M.G. and to the Swedish Royal Order of Vasa. He died on 4 May 1968 at Golden Ball, his property at Everton, and was buried in Wangaratta cemetery; his wife, and their daughter and two sons survived him.’ (Australian Dictionary of Biography refers). For the recipient’s miniature dress medals and related objects, see Lot 529.

A rare Second War ‘Burma operations’ C.B.E., inter-War ‘Waziristan operations’ D.S.O., Great War ‘Western Front’ M.C. group of thirteen awarded to Brigadier L. A, Harris, Royal Garrison Artillery, who was twice wounded during the Great War on the Western Front, and later saw extensive service on the North West Frontier of India The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, C.B.E. (Military) Commander’s 2nd type neck badge, silver-gilt and enamel, with section of neck riband for display purposes; Distinguished Service Order, G.VI.R., silver-gilt and enamel, reverse officially dated 1938, with integral top riband bar; Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued; 1914-15 Star (2. Lieut. L. A. Harris. R.G.A.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (Lieut. L. A. Harris.); India General Service 1908-35, 2 clasps, Afghanistan N.W.F. 1919, Waziristan 1921-24, with M.I.D. oak leaf (Lieut. L. A. Harris. R.G.A.); India General Service 1936-39, 1 clasp, North West Frontier 1936-37, with M.I.D. oak leaf (Major L. A. Harris. D.S.O. M.C. R.A.); 1939-45 Star; Burma Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf; Pakistan Independence Medal 1947, unnamed as issued, all mounted for display, contact marks to the Great War awards therefore these nearly very fine; the rest better (13) £5,000-£7,000 --- Provenance: Glendining’s, September 1991. C.B.E. London Gazette 15 November 1945: ‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Burma.’ The original Recommendation states: ‘Brigadier Harris has been Corps Commander, Royal Artillery since January 1944. During the campaign January to June 1944 he worked tirelessly and fearlessly to get the best out of his corps artillery and to help the divisions. He was always right forward seeing problems for himself and spent long periods during the battle in the forward brigade positions. His advice was invariably sound and much of the success of counter-battery and defensive fire was due to his drive and inspiration. During the campaign of September 1944 to date he has again shown outstanding qualities of initiative and has overcome incredible difficulties in getting corps artillery forward in every type of craft to support numerous landings in mangrove swamps. His gallant and distinguished service over these two campaigns deserve recognition by the award of the C.B.E.’ D.S.O. London Gazette 21 December 1937: ‘For distinguished service rendered in the field in connection with operations in Waziristan during the period 17 January to 15 September 1937.’ M.C. London Gazette 17 December 1917; citation published 23 April 1918: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During two attacks he went under shell and machine gun fire to the front line and brought back much valuable information.’ Lawrence Anstie Harris was born on 13 December 1896 and was educated at Tonbridge School and the Royal Military Academy, Woolwich. He was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the Royal Garrison Artillery on 28 July 1915, and served with the 14th Corps Heavy Artillery during the Great War on the Western Front from 29 September 1915. Promoted Lieutenant on 1 July 1917, he was twice wounded during the Great War, near Montauban in August 1916, and again at Mazingarbe in June 1918, and for his services he was Mentioned in Despatches (London Gazette 4 January 1917) and awarded the Military Cross. Harris spent most of the inter-War years on the North West Frontier of India, and was promoted Captain on 14 May 1925; and Major on 1 August 1936. For his services in the inter-War years he was Mentioned in Despatches (London Gazette 18 February 1938), and as Major Commanding the 15 (Jhelum) Mountain Battery, 25 Indian Mountain Brigade, was awarded the D.S.O. ‘for his outstanding command ability during the Waziristan campaign’ (letter from Major-General Peter Glover, who served in the Battery under Harris, refers). Harris served throughout the Second World War in India and Burma, ultimately as Corps Commander, Royal Artillery, 15th Indian Corps, from 1944, for which services he was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire. He was promoted Colonel on 1 January 1945, and his final appointment was as Director of Artillery, Pakistan, 1947-48. He retired with the honorary rank of Brigadier on 3 June 1948, after 33 years’ continuous service, and in retirement wrote the chapters ‘The Arakan (Artillery in the Arakan)’ and ‘Gunners in India 1939-45’ in ‘The Royal Artillery Commemoration Book 1939-45’. He died in Droxford, Hampshire, on 19 January 1970. Note: The M.I.D. emblems on the recipient’s India General Service Medal 1908-35, and on his War Medal 1939-45, are both unconfirmed. Sold with two photographic images of the recipient (one as a young officer in the Great War, the other as a Brigadier post-Second World War), and extensive research, including two original letters from officers who served with Harris in India in the late 1930s.

A Great War ‘French theatre’ O.B.E. group of six awarded to Major C. L. Chapman, Royal Marine Brigade, late Chief Petty Officer, Collingwood Battalion, Royal Naval Division, who was a veteran of both the defence of Antwerp and Gallipoli, and subsequently served as Adjutant of 63rd (Naval) Divisional Train in France The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, O.B.E. (Military) Officer’s 1st type breast badge, silver, hallmarks for London 1919; 1914 Star, with clasp (L.5/418. C. L. Chapman, C.P.O. R.N.V.R. Collingwood Bttn. R.N.D.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (Capt. C. L. Chapman R.M.); Defence Medal; Royal Naval Reserve L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue (T/Capt. C. L. Chapman, R.M.) mounted for display, generally good very fine (6) £700-£900 --- O.B.E. London Gazette 3 June 1919: ‘For valuable services rendered in France.’ M.I.D. London Gazette 5 July 1919 (France). Charles Leonard Chapman was born in London in May 1885, and was employed as a Merchant’s Clerk by Messrs. Scrutton & Sons of London. He joined the London Division of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve in November 1903, and advanced to Chief Petty Officer by 1914. Chapman was posted to the Collingwood Battalion, Royal Naval Division in August 1914, and took part in the defence of Antwerp. Leonard returned to the UK, and volunteered for service with the Royal Marines. He was granted a temporary commission as Second Lieutenant in December 1914. Following training at Blandford Camp Chapman embarked with the Royal Marine Brigade for service in Gallipoli. During his service in the latter campaign, Chapman was attached to the Royal Marine Division Train and promoted to Captain in May 1915. Chapman subsequently served in the French theatre of war from 20 May 1916. He served as part of the 63rd (Naval) Division, and was appointed Acting Adjutant of the Divisional Train in November 1917. Chapman advanced to Major in July 1918, and was demobilised at Crystal Palace in June 1919. He served with the Home Guard during the Second War. Sold with copied research.

Pair: Private Hugh McPherson, 3rd Foot, who fought at the battles of Albuhera in 1811 and at Plattsburgh in 1814, and afterwards served in France, New South Wales and Bengal East Indies Military General Service 1793-1814, 1 clasp, Albuhera (H. McPherson, 3rd Foot.); Army L.S. & G.C., W.IV.R. (Hugh M’Pherson, 3rd Regiment Foot. 1832.) fitted with fitted with original steel clip and rectangular steel bar suspension, the first good very fine, the second with contact marks, otherwise very fine (2) £2,600-£3,000 --- Provenance: Single M.G.S., Spink, March 1993, and Glendining’s, March 1994; reunited with L.S. & G.C. from The Robert F. Brett Collection of Medals to the Buffs, Dix Noonan Webb, September 1999. One of only 19 single-clasp medals for Albuhera to the regiment. Hugh McPherson was born at Louth, near Inverness, Sutherland, and attested for the 3rd Foot at Dundalbin, County Sutherland, on 1 April 1808, aged 17 years. Commencing his adult service on 1 April 1809, he completed a further 25 years 100 days, including additional allowance of 1 year 336 days for service in the East Indies, and was discharged at Fort William on 31 December 1831. He received his final discharge at Fort Pitt, near Chatham, on 8 May 1832. His discharge papers record that he ‘served at the Battles of “Albuhera” - “Nive” - “Nivelle” - “Orthes” - “Pyrenees” - on the Peninsula; and at “Plattsburgh” in North America; afterwards Three Years in France - Five Years in New South Wales, and Three Years and a half in Bengal, East Indies.’ He was discharged ‘on the reduced Pension of 10d per diem, under the Regulations dated 14th November 1829, by authority of the General Commanding in Chief, dated, Horse Guards 13th May 1831.’ He received testimony from Ensign & Adjutant White, 3rd Regt., ‘that his character has been most exemplary & has been recommended by his Commanding Officer for the Gratuity in addition to his Pension.’ Hugh McPherson was examined at the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, on 8 August 1832, then aged 41, and although stating his intention to reside in Glasgow, it would appear that he drew his pension from the Dublin District in Ireland, where he received an increased pension of 1/3 from 22 November 1859, and was still drawing his pension in 1863. Despite his discharge papers showing his presence at further actions in the Peninsula after Albuhera, the medal rolls confirm his entitlement to the single clasp for that battle, one of approximately 20 single-clasp medals to the 3rd Foot, out of the 165 medals issued to the regiment with that clasp. Sold with copied discharge papers. The Battle of Albuhera Albuhera was the bloodiest battle of the Peninsula War, fought on 16 May 1811, and was the only significant battle of the war at which Wellington was not in command. Fought in south-west Spain, 75 miles north of Seville, on the Badajoz road. Marshall Beresford, in command of 37,279 British, Portuguese and Spanish troops, was attacked by Marshal Soult’s French army of 28,272, whose main intention was to raise their siege of Badajoz. Following a feint attack on the Allies’ left flank at the village, Soult heavily attacked the Spanish under Zaya in the centre. Colborne’s Brigade [3rd (Buffs), 31st, (East Surrey), 1st and 2nd Bns. 48th (Northamptonshire), and 66th (Berkshire) Regiments of Foot] of the 2nd Division, aligned from the right, advanced to support them. Attacked with volley fire at 60 paces, the French columns began to break. Colborne’s line cheered and went forward to complete the victory with the bayonet. Unfortunately a dreadful catastrophe then occurred as French cavalry, the 1st Polish Lancers of the Vistula and the 2nd Hussars, some 880 men, attacked Colborne’s flank at the very moment that a blinding shower of rain and hail fell. This masked their approach and they were mistaken for Spanish cavalry. The Buffs, on the right, suffered the most. Muskets were rendered useless by the storm and, in the space of five minutes, 4 officers and 212 men were killed, with 14 and 234 wounded, and 2 and 177 taken prisoner or missing, an eighty-five percent casualty rate. The total Brigade losses amounted to 58 out of 85 officers, and 1190 out of 1568 men. This ghastly slaughter was partly due to the Polish Lancers, many of whom were believed to be intoxicated, not only refusing to accept surrender from the infantry but spearing them with their long lances as they lay wounded.

A post-War M.B.E. group of seven awarded to Lieutenant-Commander E. S. P. Harrison, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, M.B.E. (Military) Member’s 2nd type breast badge, silver; 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve Decoration, G.VI.R., 1st issue, reverse officially dated 1944; Cadet Forces Medal, E.II.R., 2nd issue (Lt. Cdr. (S.C.C.). E. S. P. Harrison. R.N.R.) mounted court-style as worn, nearly extremely fine (7) £400-£500 --- M.B.E. London Gazette 1 January 1960: ‘For services to Newhaven and Seaford Contingent, Sea Cadet Corps.’ Edward Stuart Pierce Harrison was born in Brentford in 1908, and was commissioned sub-lieutenant in the Sussex Division, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve in June 1929. He advanced to lieutenant in June 1933, and qualified in Signals and Minesweeping. Subsequent postings during the Second World War included at H.M.S. Greenwich (destroyer depot ship); H.M.S. President (Signal Department) and H.M.S. Mercury (Signals Establishment). Harrison advanced to lieutenant commander in June 1941, and after the War he commanded the Newhaven and Seaford Contingent of the Sea Cadet Corps. He retired in 1969, and died at Lewes.

A Great War M.C. group of four awarded to Lieutenant P. Wells, Royal Field Artillery, late Hampshire Yeomanry, who was wounded at Arras in June 1917 Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued; British War and Victory Medals (Lieut. P. Wells.); Territorial Force War Medal 1914-19 (415 Sjt. P. Wells. Hamps. Yeo.) unit officially corrected on last, light contact marks, otherwise nearly extremely fine (4) £800-£1,000 --- M.C. London Gazette 7 November 1918: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during an attack. He went forward alone, under heavy enemy barrage, and returned with valuable information regarding the infantry situation. By his courage and initiative in getting the information through he was instrumental in enabling the guns to ward off a counter-attack.’ Philip Wells was born in Winchester on 1 May 1888 and attested there for the Hampshire Carabiniers on 4 August 1908, whilst employed as a book seller at the family bookshop P & G Wells, 11 College Street, Winchester. He served during the Great War on the Western Front from 25 May 1916, and was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the Royal Field Artillery (Special Reserve) on 27 March 1917. He was wounded by gun shot to the left leg at Arras on 15 June 1917, and having returned to England was demobilised on 11 February 1919. He relinquished his commission on 1 April 1920, and died in the family bookshop in Winchester on 7 April 1942. Sold with a large quantity of copied research.

A Great War 1916 ‘Western Front’ M.C. group of four awarded to Captain J. P. Harvey, Canadian Engineers Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued; 1914-15 Star (45008 Sjt. J. P. Harvey. Can: Eng:); British War and Victory Medals (Capt. J. P. Harvey.); together with the recipient’s related miniature awards; and a Orillia Great War Tribute Medal, bronze, the reverse engraved ‘Capt. J. P. Harvey Can. Eng. 1914-19’, with top bronze riband bar, good very fine and better (5) £1,200-£1,600 --- M.C. London Gazette 1 January 1917. John Percival Harvey was born in Orillia, Ontario, in 1891 and was educated at Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, from 1908 to 1913, graduating in May of 1913 with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. Following the outbreak of the Great War he enlisted in the 3rd Field Company, Canadian Engineers at Valcartier on 23 September 1914, and served with them during the Great War on the Western Front from 12 February 1915. He saw action in the Battle of Ypres from 22 April to 25 May 1915; on the first day of action Harvey’s company was at Gravenstafel where it came under a heavy gas attack. This same day the company was thrown into the line as infantry with the 3rd Canadian Infantry Brigade. By the following day the company was at St. Julien where it was released from its infantry role leaving it free to proceed to Wieltje. On 25 April the company again went into line as infantry with the 3rd Canadian Infantry Brigade. On 18 May 1915 Harvey was again in the front line with his company, this time at Festubert. He participated in the Battle of Festubert until 25 May, after which his company moved to Oblinghem, arriving there on 31 May. On 30 June 1915 the company arrived at Ploegsteert and remained there in relatively static positions for the winter. Harvey was commissioned second lieutenant on 12 March 1916. Assigned to the 8th Field Company, Canadian Engineers with the 3rd Canadian Division, he arrived at his new unit in time to participate in the campaigns at Fler-Courcelette, 15-22 September 1916; Thiepval, 26-28 September 1916; Ancre Heights, 1 October to 11 November 1916, including Le Transloy, 1-18 October 1916. For his gallant services during the autumn campaigns of 1916 Harvey was awarded the Military Cross. He was invested with his M.C. by H.M. the King at Buckingham Palace on 14 April 1917. Throughout the spring and summer of 1917 Harvey participated in many of the larger battles on the Western Front, including Vimy, 9-14 April 1917; Scarpe, 3-4 May 1917; Hill 70, 15-25 August 1917; and Passchendaele, 26 October to 10 November 1917. Harvey was seconded for duty as a staff officer to 3rd Brigade Headquarters, Canadian Engineers, in July 1918, and saw further action with them, culminating in the Battle of Amiens, 8-11 August 1918, and the pursuit to Mons. Returning to Canada in February 1919, he was demobilised with the rank of captain on 17 May 1919. Sold with a Queen’s University, Kingston, Annual Games silver prize medallion, the reverse engraved ‘Mile. J. P. Harvey’; two small French medallets; the recipients; original parchment Certificate of Service; Buckingham Palace telegram regarding the M.C. Investiture; various photographic images of the recipient; and much copied research.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.C. group of five awarded to Lieutenant-Colonel A. G. Turner, 2nd Eastern Ontario Regiment, late Scots Guards and School of Musketry Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued; 1914-15 Star (Lieut: A. G. Turner. 2/Can: Inf:); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (Lt. Col. A. G. Turner.); Army L.S. & G.C., E.VII.R. (622 Q.M. Sjt: Instr: A. G. Turner. S. of M.) mounted as worn, toned, nearly extremely fine (5) £900-£1,200 --- M.C. London Gazette 23 June 1915 (Birthday Honours). M.I.D. London Gazette 22 June 1915. Alfred George Turner was born in the Parish of Horsleydown, Surrey, on 7 September 1873. He joined the Scots Guards in London on 29 February 1892. He qualified ‘Distinguished’ at the School of Musketry, Hythe, on 31 October 1901, and transferred to the School of Musketry Staff as a 3rd Class Sergeant Instructor. He was awarded the L.S. & G.C. medal in 1910 as Q.M. Sergeant Instructor. Attached to the School of Musketry in Ottawa as Q.M.S.I. from 8 September 1911, he was discharged on completion of 21 years of service on 28 February 1913, conduct ‘exemplary’. He continued on as an instructor at the Canadian School of Musketry and was appointed a temporary Sergeant-Major Instructor in the Royal Canadian Regiment on 1 August 1913, and also as R.S.M. Governor General’s Foot Guards from the same date. Made temporary lieutenant on the Special List ‘Whilst act. Adjt. C.E.F.’ on 22 September 1914. He served in France as an original member of the 2nd Battalion C.E.F. from 11 February 1915, was promoted temporary captain on 17 March 1915, and was company commander in May and June 1915 at Festubert and Givenchy. He was slightly wounded by a G.S.W. in the leg at Kemmell on 13 November 1915, and returned to duty 12 days later. Went on leave to England in April 1916 and returned to France on 11 August 1916. He was wounded in the field on the Somme by a shell in the face, left arm and back on 13 October 1916, and taken to England on the S.S. Asturias, and was in No. 4 General Hospital, Denmark Hill from 27 October 1916 to 3 January 1917. Turner remained in England for the rest of the war and was posted to the Eastern Ontario Regiment Depot at Seaford, Sussex, in October 1917, eventually being apointed G.S.O. 1 and acting lieutenant-colonel at Seaford until 1 August 1919. After a short refresher course at the School of Musketry, Hythe, in September 1919, he returned to Canada, where he became chief instructor at the Canadian School of Musketry. Appointed brevet lieutenant-colonel w.e.f. January 1919, he was appointed Officer Commanding “A” Wing, Canadian Small Arms School, Ottawa, 1 April 1921. He was specially employed as Weapons Training Officer, M.D. 10, (Winnipeg) from 15 April 1924, and concurrently made District Military Intelligence Officer, M.D. 10 (Wnnipeg) from 1 November 1929. He retired in 1931 and died in Ottawa in 1939. Sold with five masonic jewels, one in 9 carat gold, mostly cased; white metal identity bracelet (Cap. A. G. Turner H.Q. 5th Inf. Bde. Can.); mounted group of five miniature dress medals and various tunic ribbon bars; numbered C.E.F. lapel badge ‘For Service at the Front’; together with a large quantity of original documents and photographs, including ‘Record of Services’ and other official documents, press cuttings and two fine portrait photographs.

A Second War ‘North-West Europe’ M.C. group of four awarded to Lieutenant E. R. S. Fifoot, Coldstream Guards, later Bodley’s Librarian, University of Oxford Military Cross, G.VI.R., reverse officially dated ‘1946’ and contemporarily engraved ‘Lieut. E. R. S. Fifoot. Coldstream Guards’, in Royal Mint case of issue with outer card box and named Buckingham Palace enclosure; 1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; War Medal 1939-45; together with the related miniature awards, these mounted as worn, good very fine and better (4) £1,400-£1,800 --- M.C. London Gazette 24 January 1946. The original recommendation states: ‘This officer has been an outstanding patrol and platoon leader ever since joining the Battalion in August 1944. Every time he has had the opportunity to distinguish himself for bravery and devotion to duty he has done so. Outstanding examples occurred during twice during Operation Veritable.
In the battalion attack at Mull south east of Gennep he commanded the right hand forward platoon which had to cross 3000 yards of open country in face of heavy and accurate enemy DF fire and considerable small arms fire from farm houses and concrete ‘Hay Stacks’. Over all this distance this officer’s fine example was of the utmost encouragement and resulted, despite heavy casualties, in complete victory.
Again on 9 March this officer was commanding a forward platoon in the battalion attack on the Wesel bridgehead. His platoon started to suffer casualties before crossing the start line and on reaching that they were met with further heavy small arms and mortar fire.
Despite all this Lieutenant Fifoot led his platoon with conspicuous dash and gallantry. No sooner was the original objective reached than he was ordered to carry out a difficult manoeuvre to the flank to meet a threatened German counter attack. Despite intense and accurate mortar and Nebelwerfer fire he accomplished this manoeuvre with great skill thus neutralising the threat to his company's whole position.
These are but two examples of this young officer’s intrepid conduct as a platoon commander in the offensive operations of the last few months. During the winter defensive fighting he was equally outstanding as a gallant and resourceful patrol leader. His outstanding conduct and devotion to duty have on many occasions been brought to the notice of his superiors.’ Erik Richard Sidney Fifoot was born at Woodstock, Oxfordshire, on 14 June 1925 and was educated at Berkhamsted School and later the University of Oxford. He was commissioned into the Coldstream Guards in 1943 and served with them during the Second World War on the Western Front. The award of the Military Cross after a period of sustained service with 5th Battalion, Coldstream Guards during Operation Veritable, the allied offensive through the Reichswald Forest onto the Rhine flood plain. During this operation the 5th Battalion served with 32 Brigade in General Horrocks’ 30 Corps. With the end of the war Fifoot left the army to continue his studies at University College London for a Diploma in Librarianship and Archives, beginning work that same year in the library of the University of Leeds, a role he remained in until 1958 by which time he had risen from assistant librarian to sub librarian. Appointed Deputy Librarian at Nottingham University in 1958, he then became Librarian at the University of Edinburgh in 1960, a post he held for nearly twenty years until 1979 when he was appointed Bodley’s Librarian, the Head of the Bodleian Library at the University of Oxford, and was also made a Fellow at Exeter College, Oxford. He retired in 1981 and died in Oxfordshire on 24 June 1992. Sold with an original photograph of the recipient; a Coldstream Guards cap badge; a copy of the order of service for the recipient's funeral; various family photographs; and other ephemera.

A scarce Second War ‘1945’ A.F.C., ‘1939’ A.F.M. flying instructor’s group of four awarded to Sergeant Pilot, later Wing Commander, J. Shearsmith, Royal Air Force Air Force Cross, G.VI.R., reverse officially dated ‘1945’; Air Force Medal, G.VI.R. (363255. S. Sgt. J. Shearsmith. R.A.F.) double-struck in places; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted for display on card, generally nearly extremely fine (4) £2,600-£3,000 --- A.F.C. London Gazette 14 June 1945, the original recommendation states: ‘No. 7 Flying Training School (total instructional flying hours - 3230). As assistant to the Chief Instructor Flight Lieutenant Shearsmith has made an outstanding contribution to the efficiency of Flying Training Command. At all times he has displayed marked ability, loyalty and devotion to duty. Although, in his present capacity, much of his time is devoted to administrative detail, he has retained exceptional keenness to keep close contact with the flying instruction personal participation.’ A.F.M. London Gazette 2 January 1939, the original recommendation states: ‘This NCO pilot has been a flying instructor in the Intermediate Training Squadron of this unit from 9 Nov 1936 to 23 May 1938 and was then transferred to the Advanced Training Squadron. During the year ending 30 Sept 1938 he completed a total of 278 hours flying. I recommended this NCO for the Air Force Medal in February of this year in view of his extremely valuable flying services under peace conditions and since that date he has still continued to carry out such services. I look upon him as a very efficient pilot and an extremely competent instructor both in single and twin-engined aircraft, and he is most hardworking, energetic and conscientious in all his duties. He also instils the proper confidence in all pupils with whom he is dealing, and such pilots that he has trained have reached a standard which I consider highly commendable. His thoroughness in the work now allotted to him in the Advanced Training Squadron and his experience and efficiency in both squadrons have been of great value to the Service. Beyond his very excellent ability as an instructor at a Flying Training School, he is gifted with that sense of duty and bearing required of a NCO. Taking the excellent all-round work of this NCO during the time he has been at this unit, and the very great amount of work that has been given him during this expansion period, I feel that he is deserving of recognition. I therefore very strongly recommend him for the Air Force Medal. Air Officer Commanding remarks: Sergeant Shearsmith has, by his exceptional skill and devotion to duty as a Flying Instructor, performed most valuable work in No. 6 Flying Training School. I recommend the award of the Air Force Medal as an appropriate recognition of his services.’ Jack Shearsmith was born in Selby, Yorkshire in April 1907, and enlisted in the Royal Air Force as a Halton Apprentice in the 6th Entry in September 1922. Having passed out and mustered as a Fitter Aero Engine, he was posted for service with 6 Squadron in Iraq, September 1927. Shearsmith returned from Iraq in October 1929, and remustered as a pilot under training in June 1931. Shearsmith carried out his training at 4 F.T.S., and was promoted Sergeant in March 1932. Having served in Egypt on and off between 1930 - 1936, Shearsmith qualified as a Flying Instructor in November 1936. Shearsmith was posted to the Central Flying School in August 1936, and then to 6 F.T.S., Little Rissington, in November of the same year (presented with his A.F.M. by the A.O.C. at the station in February 1939). He was discharged to a commission in March 1940, and was granted an Emergency Commission as Pilot Officer on probation in the General Duties Branch the following month. Shearsmith briefly stayed as an instructor at 6 F.T.S., before serving at 7 F.T.S., April 1940 - September 1943. He advanced to Flight Lieutenant in April 1942, and to Acting Squadron Leader in February the following year. Subsequent wartime postings included at 18 (Pilots) A.F.U. and 7 (Pilots) A.F.U., before being appointed Chief Ground Instructor at 7 F.T.S. in April 1947. Shearsmith transferred to Aircraft Control Branch in November 1947, and to Fighter Control Branch in July 1949. He advanced to Squadron Leader in January 1952, and subsequent postings included with H.Q. 66 Group, H.Q. 12 Group, H.Q. Met Sector and as Master Controller at No. 144 Signals Unit, Bawdsey. Shearsmith advanced to Acting Wing Commander in April 1957, and retired three years later. Wing Commander Shearsmith resided at 13 Carleton Crescent, Walton, Peterborough in later life, and died in September 1977. Sold with copied service papers, and research.

An unusual post-War Vampire and Spitfire Test Pilot’s A.F.C. group of seven awarded to Flight Lieutenant D. A. Youngs, Royal New Zealand Air Force and Royal Air Force, who flew in three tours over the South West Pacific, in Kittyhawks and Corsairs, during the Second World War. He was mentioned in despatches for his services as a flight commander with 25 Squadron during his last tour, and retrained as a helicopter pilot to serve in Whirlwinds in Malaya and Cyprus Air Force Cross, G.VI.R., 2nd issue, reverse officially dated ‘1950’, and additionally engraved ‘D. A. Youngs’; 1939-45 Star; Pacific Star; War Medal 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf; New Zealand War Service Medal; General Service 1918-62, 2 clasps, Malaya, E.II.R., Cyprus (Flt. Lt. D. A. Youngs. R.A.F.) 2nd clasp loose on riband as issued; U.N. Medal, on UNFICYP ribbon, mounted for display on card, generally good very fine (7) £1,800-£2,200 --- A.F.C. London Gazette 8 June 1950, the original recommendation states: ‘No. 33 M.U., R.A.F. Lyneham. Flight Lieutenant Youngs has been the unit’s Test Pilot since May 1948. His work consists in testing high speed aircraft - Vampire and Spitfire - newly erected from storage. The work is exacting as it calls for continual concentrated attention in order to detect and record aircraft faults and behaviour. It is also attended by the abnormal risks which are inseparable from the task of bringing into use, for the first time, aircraft from storage, where they may have suffered climatic deterioration. During the whole period of his service with the unit, Flt Lt Youngs has displayed exceptional skill and zeal in the work. He has demonstrated his skill, not only by the accuracy and acuteness of his diagnosis of aircraft faults and characteristics, which has been of the greatest assistance to the tradesman, and has reduced considerably the number of re-tests necessary, but also during many flying displays which he has given at neighbouring units, at functions organised to stimulate recruiting in the R.A.F., and in the air defence services, viz Battle of Britain Displays, Displays for A.T.C. Cadets and Displays for aircraft spotters. At these displays, his courageous and expert demonstrations of aerobatics on Vampire aircraft, at high speed and low altitudes and at great risk, have excited great admiration for the superb quality of the R.A.F. aircraft and pilots, and have often been the outstanding feature of the displays. Flt. Lt. Youngs’ exceptional zeal was well exemplified during the summer months of 1949, when he continually took advantage of the evening hours to test aircraft in readiness for the ground staff next morning. This work, carried out in his own time, meant that he set the pace of work for the ground staff to follow. His flying then reached an intensity which tested his endurance to an extent that it became necessary in the interests of his safety to compel him to go on leave for a short spell for rest. During two of the summer months, he carried out 119 and 123 tests and, during the remaining months, did considerably more than 80 tests each month. Allowing for weather restrictions these are exceptionally high averages. No other test pilot who has served with this unit during the 2 and a half years has approached the high standard which this officer has consistently maintained.’ M.I.D. London Gazette 10 July 1945. Douglas Alan Youngs was born in Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex in January 1920. His family emigrated to New Zealand when he was a boy, and he was educated at Takapuna Grammar School, New Zealand. Youngs was employed as a clerk by the New Zealand Insurance Company in Auckland. He enlisted in the Royal New Zealand Air Force in May 1940, underwent pilot training, and gained his ‘Wings’ in September of the same year. Youngs was commissioned Pilot Officer in November 1940, and flew as a staff pilot at various Flying Training Schools in New Zealand between 1940-1943. Youngs was posted for operational flying as a fighter pilot with 19 Squadron (Kittyhawks and Corsairs) in February 1944. The Squadron was deployed to Guadalcanal in the South West Pacific, and Youngs flew 2 tours of operational sorties with them. They were employed on flying patrol and ground attack missions against the Japanese, and alternated stations between Guadalcanal and Bougainville. Youngs was posted as a Flight Commander to 25 Squadron (Corsairs) in October 1944, and carried out a further tour of the South West Pacific in that capacity before being posted back to New Zealand as test pilot on the disbandment of the Squadron in March 1945. He carried out at least 123 operational sorties during the war, and flew 2,111 hours from 1940-45. Youngs transferred to the Royal Air Force, and served two spells with the force including August 1947 - August 1951, and June 1954 - October 1968. He retrained as a helicopter pilot in September 1954, and was posted for operational service with 155 Squadron (Whirlwinds), Kuala Lumpur, as part of the Far East Air Force in November 1954. Youngs served with the Joint Experimental Helicopter Unit, Middle Wallop, from December 1957, and in December the following year was sent out as part of the air reinforcements posted to Cyprus to aid British ground forces with their anti-EOKA terrorist operations. He subsequently served on the strength of 18 Squadron, Gutersloh, and was detached to serve in Nicosia on two separate occasions. Flight Lieutenant Youngs retired in October 1968. Sold with copied research.

The Unique First Boer War ‘Fort Alice Intelligence Department’ D.C.M. group of three awarded to Sergeant P. Sharkey, 94th Connaught Rangers, a Veteran of Ulundi and the Zulu War, who won his D.C.M. for Gallantry under fire at Fort Alice during the Siege of Standerton; twenty years later, during the Second Boer War, Sharkey re-enlisted and again fought the Boers in the Transvaal, this time as a Scout in the 1st Scottish Horse Distinguished Conduct Medal, V.R. (L./Sergt. P. Sharkey, 2/Conn. Rang.); South Africa 1877-79, 1 clasp, 1879 (732 Corpl. P. Sharkey, 94th Regt.); Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 2 clasps, Transvaal, South Africa 1901 (175 Scout P. Sharkey, Scottish Horse) suspensions slightly loose on first two, occasional edge bruising, otherwise nearly very fine or better (3) £12,000-£16,000 --- Provenance: Dix Noonan Webb, May 2016. No campaign medals were awarded for the First Boer War 1880-81 but six V.C.s (all of which are held by institutions), one C.B., four R.R.C.s, twenty D.C.M.s and a single C.G.M. were awarded. One other man who received the D.C.M. for the First Boer War plus a Zulu War medal is recorded on the Q.S.A. roll, but his was a no-clasp medal, suggesting he was involved in the war effort but not engaged in combat. This makes Sharkey’s group unique to a man who unquestionably fought in both Boer Wars. D.C.M. Submitted to the Queen 14 March 1882: ‘For his gallant conduct during the investment of Standerton by the Boers.’ The original document, signed by the Queen, is held by The National Archives (copy included). Patrick Sharkey was born in 1858, possibly in Omagh, Co. Tyrone, Ireland; his father was living there at the time of the 1901 census. He enlisted in the 94th Regiment (Connaught Rangers) in October 1877, when he was about 19. Zulu War and Operations Against King Sekukini in Transvaal
Sharkey arrived at Durban, the capital of Natal, South Africa in April 1879 on the troopship S.S. China. The 94th Regiment formed part of the reinforcements which arrived after the opening battles of the Zulu War, as a response to the disaster at Isandlhwana. He was subsequently present at the final battle of Ulundi in July 1879, which effectively ended the Zulu War. The 94th was the only regiment in Newdigate’s Division that had six companies present at the battle. It suffered casualties of two men killed and 18 wounded. By then Sharkey had risen to the rank of corporal, unusual after just two years of army service. When hostilities against King Sekukuni in the Lydenburg district of the Transvaal resumed in November 1879, four companies of the 94th formed part of the 1,400 Imperial troops and 800 colonials which attacked the reputedly impregnable tribal stronghold. Sekukuni escaped, but he was pursued by ‘B’ Company of the 94th and captured on 2 December 1879. First Boer War – Gallantry during the Siege of Fort Alice at Standerton The 94th Regiment remained in South Africa after the Zulu War, with its regimental headquarters at Pietermaritzberg in south-eastern Natal. Its companies were deployed to garrison a number of towns across the Transvaal, either because they were large and strategic in themselves, or because they were significant waypoints on the British lines of communication, such as Standerton, where the road from Natal to Pretoria crossed the Vaal river. Corporal Sharkey belonged to one of the detached companies based at Wakkerstroom in southern Transvaal. An extensive account of the 94th’s time in South Africa 1879-1882 is recorded in four chapters of Jourdain’s Regimental History. Tensions between the Imperial government and the Boers rose throughout 1880, culminating in the Boers declaring Independence in mid-December. The main body of the 94th Regiment was marching from Leydenberg to Pretoria when, on 20 December 1880, it was ambushed by Boers at Bronkhorst Spruit. The Boers called on the 94th to surrender, but the officers chose to fight and suffered a costly and bloody defeat. As Standerton was situated midway on the main road between Newcastle in Natal and Pretoria, its strategic importance was obvious. The British scrambled to put down the Boer rebellion and on 21 December 1880 two companies of the 94th and one of the 58th Regiment marched into Standerton from Wakkerstroom and began constructing fortifications. A mile outside the town itself, these were soon christened ‘Fort Alice’. Standerton sprawled on a slope which overlooked a ford across the broad, sparkling Vaal to the south. It lacked trees or gardens; the fifty-odd iron-roofed houses looked to the visiting C. L. Norris-Newman ‘as if they had been a mud-splash thrown at random on the bare veld’. The one object of interest was the octogenarian ‘General’ Stander, a sturdy Voortrekker who had fought the British at Bloomplaats [33 years earlier] and given the town its name. Fort Alice lay below rocky kopjes rising to the north and east, and the towering, flat-topped Stander’s Kop. Major W. E. Montague of the Connaughts was selected to take command of the new Standerton garrison, despite being far away in the regimental headquarters at Pietermaritzburg near the east coast of Natal. According to the Regimental History, the assignment was not to Major Montague’s liking: “‘I don’t want to go, sir,’ he had told Major-General Sir George Pomeroy Colley, ‘I dislike the Transvaal more than I can say, but if you think there is any necessity for my going, I am ready to start at an hour’s notice.’ Colley thought it vital, and advised the major, who had an outstanding record in the Zulu War, ‘You will find Standerton an excellent position for defence, strengthen it, take care they don’t get you unawares, and hold till I come [on January 20th] ... we shall march together on Heidelberg [where the Boers had first proclaimed their independent republic on 16 December 1880].’
To escape detection by Republican patrols (who had already taken two travelling officers prisoner), Montague disguised himself as a colonial bank messenger, journeying to the Transvaal in a post cart. He bought a slouch hat, removed his collar and tie, and left his hair unkempt and his face unwashed after shaving his moustache (which by regulation was worn by all British officers). The Boers let him pass. Arriving on 23 December, Montague found everything ‘in the wildest confusion’. The half-built fort was ‘all dirt and muddle’. A strict, no-nonsense officer, he infused discipline and organisation while more vigorous preparations were made for the defence. While the parapets of the fort were being raised, the main stone buildings in the town were loop-holed and garrisoned. Soldiers who misbehaved were bound and lashed. Having resorted to the cat from the outset, the Major had no difficulty in maintaining the strictest discipline during the rest of the Siege. In the beginning there were only thirty-four volunteers serving with the 350 regulars. Others ‘came in but slowly, many making excuses for not joining’, wrote Montague. ‘Pressure became necessary.’ He brought the number of ‘volunteers’ up to seventy-five. When Colley did not arrive at the appointed time [he had been blocked by the Boers on the Transvaal/Natal border and was ultimately killed at Majuba Hill on 27 February 1881], rationing was introduced. Boer sympathisers were given a chance to clear out of Standerton. The small Dutch party which remained complained of, among other things, the theft of the church clock and other items from their place of worship. These were later found among the effects of the men of the 94th.” Sh...

A Boer War D.C.M. pair awarded to Sergeant J. B. McKechnie, Thorneycroft’s Mounted Infantry Distinguished Conduct Medal, E.VII.R. (Pte. J. Mackenchine, Thorneycroft’s M.I.); Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 5 clasps, Tugela Heights, Orange Free State, Relief of Ladysmith, Transvaal, Laing’s Nek (2554 Serjt: J. B. McKechnie. Thorneycroft’s M.I.) surname lightly rubbed on the first, suspension bar ends slightly distorted on the second, otherwise good very fine (2) £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. recommendation submitted to the King, 3 August 1901; London Gazette, 27 September 1901; Army Order 15 of 1902 (given throughout as Mackenchine); M.I.D. London Gazette 16 April 1901, p.2612 (Mackechnie). John Brown McKechnie/Mackechnie attested for Thorneycroft’s Mounted Infantry at Pietermaritzburg on 27 October 1899, declaring previous service with the Cape Yeomanry (time expired). He was discharged with the rank of Sergeant, at his own request, at Standerton on 9 November 1900. Sold with a Queen Victoria 1900 Christmas tin, together with copied research.

The unique Great War ‘Bristol Fighter Ace’ 1917 D.C.M. and 1918 Second Award Bar group of three awarded to Sergeant F. Johnson, Royal Air Force, late Royal Flying Corps, the most highly decorated surviving British N.C.O. fighter pilot Ace of the Great War; after four victories as an Observer/Gunner in an FE 2b during six perilous months from September 1916, Johnson become a Bristol Fighter Pilot and took his score up to sixteen; he usually closed to within 50 yards of an enemy aircraft before engaging and opening fire Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R., with Second Award Bar (6391 Cpl. F. Johnson. 22/Sqn. R.F.C.); British War and Victory Medals (6391 Sgt. F. Johnson, R.A.F.) minor edge bruising, otherwise good very fine (3) £20,000-£30,000 --- Provenance: Dix Noonan Webb, March 2012. D.C.M. London Gazette 26 April 1917: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty as an Observer. He was attacked by three hostile machines and shot one of them down. He had previously shot down three other machines.’ D.C.M. Second Award Bar London Gazette 3 September 1918: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in encounters with enemy aeroplanes, with the following results:- Attack and crashed a Pfalz scout, drove down an Albatross out of control. On previous occasions he had destroyed four enemy aeroplanes and driven three down out of control.’ Frank Johnson was born in Oldham, Lancashire on 28 December 1896, the son of James and Rachel Johnson. He enlisted in the Royal Flying Corps in June 1915, aged 18, and soon qualified as an Air Mechanic, then as an Observer/Air Gunner. 22 Squadron Royal Flying Corps, F.E. 2b Observer and Air Gunner Johnson was sent out to France in February 1916, to No. 22 Squadron, as an Observer and Air Gunner for the F.E. 2b, which was intended for long-range reconnaissance and escort duty. The F.E.2b was a robust two-seater biplane with a rear-mounted ‘pusher’ engine. The observer was located in the nose of the nacelle with the pilot sitting above and behind him. The F.E.2 could also carry an external bomb load and was routinely fitted with an air-photography camera. The observer was armed with a .303 Lewis machine gun firing forward on a specially designed, swivelling mount that gave it a wide field of fire. A second Lewis gun was set up in the front of the pilot’s cockpit on a high telescopic mounting so the pilot could fire forward over his observer’s head. In practice, this ‘pilot’s gun’ was appropriated by the observers, especially when they discovered that by climbing onto the rim of their cockpit they could fire backwards over the top wing. To some extent this overcame the notorious vulnerability of rear-mounted engine ‘pusher’ aircraft types to ‘stern’ attacks from behind. The view from standing on the cockpit rim was excellent in most directions, although even this desperately dangerous position failed to cover a very large blind spot under the aircraft’s tail. The observer's perch was a precarious one, especially when firing the ‘rear/pilot’s gun’, and the observer was liable at any time to be suddenly thrown out of the aircraft. The arrangement was described by Frederick Libby, an American ace who served as an F.E.2b observer in 1916: ‘When you stood up to shoot, all of you from the knees up was exposed to the elements. There was no belt to hold you. Only your grip on the gun and the sides of the nacelle stood between you and eternity. Toward the front of the nacelle was a hollow steel rod with a swivel mount to which the gun was anchored. This gun covered a huge field of fire forward. Between the observer and the pilot a second gun was mounted, for firing over the F.E.2’s upper wing to protect the aircraft from rear attack ... Adjusting and shooting this gun required that you stand right up out of the nacelle with your feet on the nacelle coaming. You had nothing to worry about except being blown out of the aircraft by the blast of air or tossed out bodily if the pilot made a wrong move. There were no parachutes and no belts. No wonder they needed observers.’ Johnson fought his first combat on the last day of August 1916. It was a protracted dog-fight on account of several different enemy attacks, and one that resulted in Johnson expending all his ammunition. On 24 September 1916 he had his first taste of success, sharing in the destruction of an enemy aircraft (probably a Halberstadt D) over Epehy, but a few days later, on 30 September, his pilot was compelled to make a forced landing at Bray after their aircraft’s propeller was damaged during an encounter with several enemy aircraft over Ligny. Between September 1916 and February 1917 Johnson shot down four enemy aircraft. His victories were achieved in four different F.E.2bs, working with four different pilots. After his first success over Epehy in September, an Albatross D.1 fell to his gun in combat over Guedecourt on 16 October, when he engaged his quarry from a range of 15 to 20 yards. He followed up with another attack at 30 yards range on 20 October over Le Sars, this time observing his opposing gunner collapse into the enemy machine. Johnson claimed another Albatross D.1 over Bancourt on 22 November, after emptying a double drum at 70 yards range. Finally, in terms of his claims with 22 Squadron, he emptied a double drum into an Albatross D.II at 50 yards range over Haplincourt on 4 February 1917, the enemy aircraft being seen to crash at Bancourt. For his achievements up to February 1917 Johnson was awarded the D.C.M. rather than the M.M. This was a most unusual tribute for a Sergeant, given that, had Johnson been a Warrant Officer, he would have been eligible for the M.C. It probably reflected his outstanding keenness and devotion to duty, mentioned in both of his citations, in addition to his high level of conspicuous gallantry when heavily outnumbered during air battles. 20 and 62 Squadrons Royal Flying Corps - Bristol Fighter Pilot and Ace Johnson was then sent back to the UK to be trained as a pilot. He took his Aviator’s Certificate (No. 4531) on a Maurice Farman Biplane at the Military School, Ruislip in April 1917. At the end of the year he was posted back to France as a member of No. 20 Squadron, which operated the strong and agile Bristol F.2 Fighter. Its primary armament was a single fixed Vickers machine-gun mounted in front of the pilot, supplemented by a flexible, rear-mounted Lewis gun for the observer. 20 Squadron was probably the highest scoring and most decorated R.F.C. Squadron serving on the Western Front, with 613 combat victories. Johnson scored nine more victories between 11 October 1917 and 17 February 1918, with four different gunners in the rear of the two-seater Bristol Fighter. He often flew with ‘Ace gunner’ Captain J. H. Hedley. Johnson quickly added to his four earlier victories, sending an Albatross D.III out of control over Moorslede on 11 October. In December 1917 he rapidly increased his score to double figures, adding five Albatross D.Vs to his tally; two of them in the same patrol back over Moorslede on 22 December. After Johnson downed one with his front guns at 50 yards, Captain Hedley hit another at point-blank range and watched it fall in flames. 1918 got off to an equally impressive start, when Johnson locked-on to an Albatros D.III over Staden on 25 January and buckled the enemy aircraft’s wings with 100 rounds at only 10 yards range. A few weeks later, on 17 February, once more over Moorslede, Pilot and Observer each claimed a Pfalz D.III, one of them from a range of 15 yards. Johnson was then transferred to No. 62 Squadron, which also flew ...

A Great War ‘Boesinghe, July 1917’ D.C.M. and 1916 M.M. group of five awarded to Sergeant T. C. M. Phippin, Grenadier Guards Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (11467 Sjt: T. C. M. Phippin. 1/G. Gds:); Military Medal, G.V.R. (11467 Cpl. T. C. M. Phippin. 1/G. Gds.); 1914-15 Star (11467 Pte. T. C. M. Phippen. G. Gds:) note spelling of surname; British War and Victory Medals (11467 Sjt. T. C. M. Phippin. G. Gds.) medals unmounted, light contact marks and polished, otherwise nearly very fine (5) £1,800-£2,200 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 22 October 1917; citation published 26 January 1918: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. In spite of constant shelling, by which the cable was frequently broken between Brigade and Battalion Headquarters, he personally organised a party and laid five lines himself, maintaining communications at a critical time by his gallant and prompt action. On the following day he displayed similar initiative and skill in connecting up the forward companies with their Battalion Headquarters.’ Annotated Gazette states: ‘Boesinghe 30 July 1917.’ M.M. London Gazette 11 October 1916. Thomas Charles Moore Phippin was born in 1885 in the Parish of Cwmburla, Swansea, and enlisted into the Grenadier Guards at Swansea on 25 April 1904, aged 18 years 7 months, a warehouse man by trade. He was transferred to the Army Reserve on the expiration of his Army Service, 25 April 1907, and was mobilised at London on 5 August 1914. He served in France with the 1st Battalion, Grenadier Guards, from 4 January 1915, was promoted to Corporal in July 1916 and to Sergeant in April 1917. He was admitted to hospital having been gassed on 9 April 1918, and convalesced in the U.K. from 11 April to 1 August, 1918, before returning to France. He returned Home on 25 January 1919, and was demobilised on 31 March 1920, returning to his position as a Police Constable in the Prison Service. He died at Somerton, Somerset, on 19 March 1955, aged 69. Sold with copied discharge papers, Battalion War Diary extracts and other research.

An outstanding ‘Epehy, September 1918’ D.C.M. and M.M. group of five awarded to Sergeant C. F. West, 7th Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment, who, when driven back by heavy machine-gun fire, ‘collected five men, followed one of our Tanks closely, and rushed a machine-gun post on the outskirts of the village, killing the team of six men and capturing two machine-guns.’ Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (G/3147 Sjt. C. F: West. 7/R. Suss: R.) small official correction to unit; Military Medal, G.V.R. (G-3147 Sjt. C. F. West D.C.M. 7/R. Suss: R.) 1914-15 Star (G-3147 Pte C. F. West, R. Suss. R.); British War and Victory Medals (G-3147 Pte C. F. West. R. Suss. R.) mounted on card for display, light contact marks, otherwise good very fine (5) £1,800-£2,200 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 12 March 1919; citation published 2 December 1919: ‘For most conspicuous gallantry near Epehy on 18th September, 1918. When the battalion was held up and driven back by severe machine-gun fire, he, on his own initiative, collected five men,, followed one of our Tanks closely, and rushed a machine-gun post on the outskirts of the village, killing the team of six men and capturing two machine-guns. Owing to the heavy fire from other strong points in the village, he was unable to rejoin his company, but held this post for eight hours until the village had been mopped up. He did fine work.’ M.M. London Gazette 23 July 1919. Charles Frederick West was a native of Arundel, West Sussex, and served in France with the Royal Sussex Regiment from 31 August 1915. In the attack on the village of Epehy on 18 September, 1918, the war Diary records that ‘The Battalion attacked at dawn. Very heavy M.G. fire owing to Epehy not being mopped up by the troops in front. Alpine Corps fought hard for the village. Our casualties about 200 OR.‘ In addition five officers were killed and eight wounded. Sold with copied research including Battalion War Diary for September 1918.

A Great War ‘Western Front 1916’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Sapper (later Temporary Sergeant) A. G. Fleet, 5 Signal Company, Royal Engineers Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (16364 Sapr. A. G. Fleet 5/Sig: Coy. R.E.); 1914 Star, with clasp (16364 Sapr: A. G. Fleet. R.E.); British War and Victory Medals (16364 T. Sjt. A. G. Fleet. R.E.) mounted on card for display, nearly extremely fine (4) £800-£1,000 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 1 January 1917; citation published 13 February 1917: ‘For conspicuous gallantry in action. He showed great courage and determination throughout the operations in laying and repairing wires under heavy fire.’ Annotated gazette states: ‘France 1916’. Albert G. Fleet served in France as a Sapper with 5 Signal Company R.E. from 17 August 1914. He was later promoted to Temporary Sergeant. Sold with copied gazette entries, D.C.M. and Medal Index Cards.

A Great War ‘Fontaine Les Croisilles, June 1917’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant J. G. Stephenson, 12th Battalion, Northumberland Fusiliers Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (18-1382 Sjt: J. G. Stephenson. 12/Nth’d: Fus:); Queen’s Mediterranean 1899-1902 (4724 Corpl: J. G. Stephenson. North’d Fus.); British War and Victory Medals (18-1382 W.O. Cl. 2. J. G. Stephenson. North’d Fus.) naming officially re-impressed on these two, a little polished otherwise nearly very fine (4) £800-£1,000 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 25 August 1917: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in collecting the survivors of two platoons and leading them through the heaviest machine gun and rifle fire to the enemy trench. Although isolated and attacked on all sides by overwhelming forces, he held his own for over two hours, when he successfully withdrew with the two surviving men, both of whom were wounded.’ Annotated gazette states: ‘Near Fontaine Les Croisilles, 16 June 1917.’ John George Stephenson served in the 5th (Militia) Battalion of the Northumberland Fusiliers during the Boer War whilst on Prisoner of War duties. At some point he enlisted into the Army for service during the Great War. He won the D.C.M. for work done on the night of 16 June 1917, when the battalion lost 2 officers and 54 other ranks. Besides Stephenson’s D.C.M. there were three other awards for this same action, a Lieutenant being awarded the D.S.O., a Captain with a Bar to his M.C., and a Major awarded the M.C., the ribbons being presented in the field on 16 July 1917. When he returned home to Gateshead he was photographed wearing his D.C.M. and Queen’s Mediterranean Medal, believed to be a unique combination to the Regiment. Sold with copied portrait photograph and related copied research.

A well-documented Great War ‘Thiepval Ridge, Mouquet Farm’ September 1916 D.C.M. group of five awarded to Sergeant William Wilson, Lancashire Fusiliers Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (2817 C.S. Mjr: W. Wilson. 9/Lanc: Fus:); 1914 Star, with clasp (2817 Sjt. W. Wilson. 2/Lan: Fus.); British War and Victory Medals (2817 W.O. Cl. 2. W. Wilson. Lan. Fus.); War Medal 1939-45, unnamed, mounted as worn, together with Silver War Badge (B17964) nearly very fine or better (6) £1,200-£1,600 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 25 November 1916: ‘For conspicuous gallantry in action. He showed a splendid example to the men of his company. Later, although wounded, he remained with his company throughout the operations.’ William Wilson was born in Wigan on 27 November 1887. A pre-war regular, he served with 2nd Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers in France and Flanders from 8 November 1914, and later with the 9th and 16th Battalions. During the Second War he was a Warrant Officer of No. 1178 (Wigan) Squadron, Air Training Corps. He died in Wigan on 31 May 1977. Sold with several original photographs and documents including large certificate confirming that he ‘Served with honour and was disabled in the Great War. Honourably discharged on 2nd October 1918’; letter from the D.C.M. League; typed account of D.C.M. presentation ceremony by the Mayor; Air Training Corps warrant of appointment as W.O. of No. 1178 (Wigan) Squadron from 11 October 1941; and Certificate of Death. Together with copied research including War Diary for September 1916, including detailed report on the attack at Mouquet Farm, during which the battalion lost all the Company Commanders and all but two of the officers who ‘went over’, and ‘about 400 casualties in the ranks’.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ 1918 D.C.M. group of five awarded to Warrant Officer Class II E. S. Ralfs, 1st Battalion, Hampshire Regiment, who was badly gassed in France, and was awarded the D.C.M. for his gallantry at Monchaux on 24 October 1918; he subsequently served with the Royal Irish Constabulary during the Irish Rebellion Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (5756 C.S. Mjr: E. S. Ralfs. 1/Hamps: R.); Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 5 clasps, Cape Colony, Orange Free State, Transvaal, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902, unofficial rivets between state and date clasps (5756 Corpl: E. Ralfs. Hampshire Regt.); British War and Victory Medals (5756 W.O. Cl.2. E. S. Ralfs. Hamps. R.); Army L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue (5756 C.S. Mjr: E. S. Ralfe. Hants: R.) suspension claw of QSA re-riveted, contact marks throughout and edge bruising to QSA, nearly very fine and better (5) £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 12 March 1919; citation published 2 December 1919: ‘For marked gallantry, initiative and skilful leadership. At Monchaux on 24 October 1918, he was among the first to reach the river; here, under heavy machine-gun fire, he assisted in the attempt to bridge the river. When this proved unsuccessful, he collected a party, and running down the bank, came across an old bridge wired up. He rushed across, followed by his men, knocked out a machine-gun post, and formed a bridgehead which enabled the remainder of his company to cross. He did fine work.’ Ernest Samuel Ralfs was born in 1877 and attested for the Hampshire Regiment in 1899, serving with them in both the Boer War and with the 1st Battalion in the Great War (not entitled to a Star). He was badly gassed in France, and for his gallantry at Monchaux on 24 October 1918 was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal. Awarded his Long Service and Good Conduct Medal in April 1918, he was discharged in 1920, after 21 years’ service, and subsequently served with the Royal Irish Constabulary in Ireland during the Irish Rebellion with the rank of Sergeant. Re-enlisting in the Hampshire Regiment in 1923, he was appointed Instructor to the Cowes Company, Princess Beatrice’s Isle of Wight Rifles. He died on 10 August 1936. Sold with copied research.

A Great War ‘Givenchy, April 1918’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Company Sergeant-Major Henry Bennett, 1st Battalion, Royal Highlanders Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (8508 C.S. Mjr: H. Bennett. 1/R. Highrs:); British War and Victory Medals (8508 W.O. Cl. 2. H. Bennett. R. Highrs.); Army L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue (8508 C.S. Mjr. H. Bennett D.C.M. R. Highrs.) mounted as worn, together with three hallmarked silver shooting medals: ‘Scottish Army Rifle Meeting 1904. The Elkington Challenge Shield, Chattie Match, won by 42nd. Lc. Corpl. H. Bennett.’; ‘Minto Cup 1906. Corpl. Bennett 42nd R.H. 04.05.06.’; S.A.R.M. 1912. Sgt. H. Bennett.’, very fine or better (7) £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 3 September 1918: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He took command of a post after his company commander and subaltern had been killed and the garrison, which originally consisted of two platoons, had been reduced to 12 unwounded men. He showed a complete disregard for his own safety and a firm determination to hold the position at all costs, organising an effective machine-gun and Lewis-gun fire on the enemy’s parapet under an intense bombardment.’ Annotated Gazette states: ‘Givenchy, 18 April 1918.’

A Great War ‘Battle of Cambrai, Masnières’ November 1917 D.C.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant P. W. Easter, 1st Battalion, Essex Regiment Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (20764 Sjt: P. W. Easter. 1/Essex R.); 1914-15 Star (20764 Pte. W. Easter. Essex R.); British War and Victory Medals (20764 Sjt. P. W. Easter. Essex R.) light contact marks, otherwise good very fine (4) £1,200-£1,600 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 4 March 1918: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in leading his platoon forward when the company was held up by machine-gun fire, turning the flank of the strong point and enabling the company to proceed. Later, he led his platoon across a footbridge under heavy fire, volunteered to establish a post in front of our line, and having done so, successfully commanded it until ordered to bring it back.’ Annotated gazette states: ‘Masnieres, 20 November 1917’. The King’s Lynn News & County Press of 16 February 1919, announced: ‘A Bircham Totfts Medallist. Sergt. Percy Easter, Essex Regt., has been awarded the D.C.M. for bravery in leading his men during an attack. He joined the Army in Aug., 1914, and went through the Dardanelles campaign. Then he was sent to Egypt and later to France, where he was made a sergeant. In a charge at Cambrai his captain was killed and his lieutenant wounded, and the sergeant led the men. He was wounded by a bullet, but his tobacco pouch saved his life. After treatment in a base hospital he was sent to a private hospital in the West End of London. He is well again, and is expecting to rejoin his regiment in France.’ Another edition on 23 February 1918, carried a photograph of Sergeant Percy Easter. Percy W. Easter served with the 1st Battalion, Essex Regiment, in the Balkans from 9 October 1915. He was discharged to Class “Z” Reserve on 26 April 1919. Sold with copied gazette notices, D.C.M. and Medal Index Cards, together with copied press articles and several articles on the Camprai operations of November 1917.

A Great War ‘Vierstraat, February 1915’ D.C.M. and Russian Medal of St George group of eight awarded to Private Joseph French, 4th Battalion, Middlesex Regiment Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (468 Sjt: J. French. 4/Middx: Regt.); Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 3 clasps, Orange Free State, Transvaal, Laing’s Nek (5605 Pte. J. French. Middlesex Regt.); King’s South Africa 1901-02, 2 clasps, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 (5605 Pte. J. French. Middlesex Regt.); 1914 Star, with clasp (G-468 Pte. J. French. 4/Midd’x R.); British War and Victory Medals (G.468 Pte. G. French. Midd’x R.); Defence Medal; Russia, Empire, Medal of St George for Bravery, 3rd Class, silver (468 Pte J. Frengh. 4/Midlx. R.) impressed naming, note spelling of surname, mounted as worn on two separate bars, edge bruising and contact marks but generally nearly very fine or better (8) £1,400-£1,800 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 1 April 1915: ‘For conspicuous gallantry, great initiative, and coolness at Vierstraat on 26th February, 1915. A German bomb [minenwerfer] having been thrown into our trenches with consequent great destruction and confusion, Private French at once took charge, had the parapet manned, rapid fire opened on the enemy, wounded collected, and the fire in the dug-out extinguished - all this with the utmost promptitude. Subsequently he gave his attention to dressing the wounds of his comrades.’ Russian Medal of St George, 3rd Class London Gazette 25 August 1915. Joseph French served in France from 22 October 1914, as a Private in the 4th Middlesex Regiment, part of 8th Brigade in the 3rd Division. Sold with copied research including gazette notices, war diary extracts, D.C.M. and Medal Index Cards.

A good Great War ‘Delville Wood’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant E. A. Woodward, King’s Royal Rifle Corps Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (5-4510 Sjt: E. A. Woodward. 1/K.R.R.C.); 1914-15 Star (5-4510 L.Cpl. E. A. Woodward. K.R. Rif. C.); British War and Victory Medals (5-4510 Sjt. E. A. Woodward. K.R. Rif. C.) mounted court-style for display, the first with small edge bruise and light pitting from star, otherwise nearly very fine or better (4) £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 20 October 1916: ‘For conspicuous gallantry in action. He displayed great bravery in repulsing a strong enemy bomb attack, and, despite heavy casualties, and lack of regular bombers, he organised fresh bombing parties with great success.’ Ernest Woodward served with the 1st Battalion in France from 24 November 1914. He won the D.C.M. for his actions during the capture of Delville Wood, 27-29 July, 1916. The regimental history describes Woodward’s distinguished gallantry during the 1st Battalion’s attack on the morning of 27th July: ‘The 1st K.R.R.C. reached its first objective by 7.15 a.m. with small loss. The trench was full of dead and wounded Germans, and also contained three machine guns, destroyed by artillery fire. At 8.08 a.m. the second wave passed through the first wave, advanced to the next objective, and consolidated there. The advance was continued at 8.38 a.m., the final objective reached at 8.50, and a line dug, 150 yards from the edge of the wood, facing north and north-east. Two companies of the supporting regiment which came up on the right dug in too far inside the wood and left the right of the K.R.R.C. in the air. From 9 a.m. onwards the enemy shelled the wood heavily. About 9.30 a.m. the enemy were seen in large numbers north of the wood, massing for a counter-attack, while parties of them began to creep up to the eastern edge of the wood, and at 10 a.m. made a heavy bombing attack, effecting a lodgement 70 yards inside the wood. The 1st K.R.R.C. at once attacked this party and drove them back about 40 yards, but suffered very severely in doing so; Sergeant Woodward, 1st K.R.R.C., here particularly distinguished himself at the head of his bombers, and his commanding officer reported that it was in great measure due to his efforts that the enemy were driven back with very heavy loss to them.’ Sold with copied research including gazette entry, battalion war diary for July 1916, D.C.M. and Medal Index Cards.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ D.C.M. group of six awarded to Company Sergeant-Major C. E. Stovin, 1st Battalion, Royal Irish Rifles, late Royal Army Medical Corps, who was afterwards commissioned into the 12th Battalion, East Yorkshire Regiment Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (7323 C.S. Mjr: C. E. Stovin. 1/R. Ir: Rif:); Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 3 clasps, Cape Colony, Orange Free State, Transvaal (11735 Pte. C. E. Stovin, R.A.M.C.); King’s South Africa 1901-02, 2 clasps, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 (11735 Pte. C. E. Stovin. R.A.M.C.); 1914 Star, with clasp (7323 Sjt. C. E. Stovin. 1/R. Ir: Rif.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (Capt. C. E. Stovin.) together with related group of six miniature dress medals, both sets mounted as worn, generally good very fine or better (12) £900-£1,200 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 1 January 1917; citation published 13 February 1917: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He has performed consistent good work throughout, and has at all times set a splendid example.’ M.I.D. London Gazette 22 June 1915 (Field-Marshal Sir John French’s despatch of 5 April 1915). Charles Ernest Stovin served with the Royal Army Medical Corps in South Africa during the Second Boer War. He served in France as a Sergeant in the 1st Battalion, Royal Iris Rifles from 6 November 1914, being mentioned in despatches and awarded the D.C.M., before being commissioned into the 12th Battalion, East Yorkshire Regiment on 30 July 1917.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ D.C.M. group of five awarded to Lance-Corporal Harold Willicombe, 8th Battalion, Rifle Brigade, who was killed in action on 4 April 1918 Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (B-2444 L. Cpl. H. Willicombe. 8/Rif: Bde:); 1914-15 Star (B-2444 Pte. H. Willicombe. Rif: Brig:); British War and Victory Medals (B-2444 Pte. H. Willicombe. Rof. Brig.); Belgium, Croix de Guerre, A.I.R., together with Bronze Memorial Plaque (Harold Willicombe) in its card envelope, medals mounted court-style, extremely fine (6) £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 1 January 1918; citation published 17 April 1918: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty since early in the campaign. He invariably displayed the greatest courage and coolness in carrying the wounded under the heaviest fire and in the performance of any dangerous duty.’ Belgian Croix de Guerre London Gazette 12 July 1918. Harold Willicombe was a native of Camberwell and served in France with the 8th Battalion, Rifle Brigade, from 20 May 1915. He was killed in action in France on 4 April 1918 and is commemorated by name on the Pozières Memorial. Sold with original award certificate for Belgian Croix de Guerre and some copied research.

A Great War ‘Givenchy, May 1915’ D.C.M. group of six awarded to Corporal P. A. Guest, 24th (County of London) Battalion, The London Regiment (The Queen’s), Territorial Force Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (1155 Pte. P. A. Guest. 24 Lond: Regt.-T.F.); Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 4 clasps, South Africa 1901, Cape Colony, Rhodesia, Transvaal (15449 Tpr: P. A. Guest, 75th Coy. 18th Imp: Yeo:) clasps mounted in order listed with unofficial rivets between first two clasps; 1914-15 Star (1155. Pte. P. A. Guest. 24-Lond. R.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (1155 Pte. P. A. Guest. 24-Lond. R.); Territorial Efficiency Medal, G.V.R. (6779760 Cpl. P. A. Guest. D.C.M. 24-Lond. R.) medals unmounted, together with silver and enamel regimental award ‘Bayonet Fighting 1913, Class “B”, Lce. Corpl. P. Guest, “A” Co.’, edge bruising, contact marks and polished, therefore good fine or better (7) £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 14 January 1916; citation published 11 March 1916: ‘For conspicuous gallantry. Throughout the attack on an enemy trench he led, with great skill and bravery, a party of men against a machine gun.’ Annotated gazette states: ‘Givenchy, 25-26 May 1915.’ M.I.D. London Gazette 1 January 1916 (Field-Marshal French’s despatch of 15 October 1915). Percy Albert Guest served in South Africa during the Boer War with the 75th Company (Sharpshooters) 18th Battalion, Imperial Yeomanry (Medal with 4 clasps, roll confirms). He served with the 24th London Regiment (T.F.) in France from 16 March 1915. Sold with two photographs of the recipient, one in uniform wearing medals, together with copied research including Battalion War Diary extracts with detailed narrative of the operations at Givenchy, 25-26 May 1915.

A Great War 1918 ‘Battle of Amiens’ D.C.M. group of three awarded to Sergeant L. G. Brookbank, 18th Battalion, Canadian Infantry Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (769576 Sjt: L. G. Brookbank. 18/Can: Inf:); British War and Victory Medals (769576 Sjt. L. G. Brookbank. 18-Can. Inf.) good very fine (3) £700-£900 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 16 January 1919: ‘During an attack this Non Commissioned Officer went forward under very heavy fire to an exposed position in front of Vis-en-Artois on the 28th August, 1918, where he remained for eight hours keeping up a continuous observation of the enemy’s movements. The information he sent back was of the utmost importance and largely contributed to the subsequent success of the operation. His example of gallant endurance and determination was very fine.’ Lyn Gordon Brookbank was born in Streetsville, Ontario, Canada, on 31 October 1885 and having worked as a prospector, and also seen service with the Canadian Militia for three years with the Queen’s Own Rifles of Toronto, and one year with the 36th Peel Battalion of Infantry, attested for the Canadian Overseas Expeditionary Force at Toronto on 3 January 1916. Posted initially to the 124th Battalion, Brookbank served with the 18th Western Ontario Battalion, Canadian Infantry during the Great War on the Western Front as part of the 4th Infantry Brigade, 2nd Canadian Division, and was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his gallantry at Vis-en-Artois during the Battle of Amiens on August 1918. Sold with copied research.

A scarce Second War 1942 ‘Channel Air/Sea Rescue’ C.G.M. group of five awarded to Chief Motor Mechanic L. C. T. Adams, Royal Naval Reserve, who took part in a noble, but ultimately doomed, joint Naval and R.A.F. Air/Sea Rescue operation to save the fighter ace Wing Commander ‘Paddy’ Finucane who had been shot down and ditched into the sea south west of Boulogne, 15 July 1942. Four launches, M.L.s 139, 141 and R.A.F. H.S.L.s 138 and 140, set out for the stricken aircraft only to come under concentrated attack from at least 10 F.W. 190 fighter aircraft. Adams’ launch, M.L. 139, was attacked on five separate occasions, suffering casualties to the crew and hits which set the fuel tanks on fire. Adams and one other advanced into this inferno, surrounded by deadly gas, and managed to control the fires enough for the ship to withdraw - ‘That was the last attack, and three damaged boats came safely to harbour with their load of wounded. The courage of their crews under this fierce onslaught showed most eloquently how the human spirit can rise above such grim horror and misfortune and the ugliness of war’ Conspicuous Gallantry Medal, G.VI.R. (L. C. T. Adams. A/Ch. Mtr. Mech. R.N.) officially impressed naming, minor official correction to ‘RN’; 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, nearly extremely fine (5) £10,000-£14,000 --- C.G.M. London Gazette 29 September 1942: ‘For gallantry, resolution and seamanship when H.M. Air/Sea Rescue Craft were heavily attacked by enemy aircraft in the Straits of Dover.’ The original recommendation (jointly listed with D/JX. 133162 Able Seaman G. Sandford) for an immediate C.G.M. states: ‘On 15th July 1942, H.M. M.L.139 with three other craft was engaged in rescuing airmen from the sea in the Dover Strait when she was attacked by 12 or more F.W.190s. M.L.139 was hit and a fire was started in the petrol compartment. Adams together with another rating [Sandford] entered the almost inaccessible compartment without breathing apparatus and put out the fire. Their action, knowing that the compartment contained over a thousand gallons of high octane spirit, that a tank was holed and vapour was present with the ship under fire from the enemy showed the greatest courage and devotion. These two men undoubtedly saved the ship by their bravery, resource and initiative.’ Leslie Charles Adams resided in Court Hill, Sanderstead, Surrey. He served with the Royal Naval Reserve during the Second World War, and distinguished himself whilst serving with Motor Launch 139 in an Air/Sea Rescue capacity, 15 July 1942. The incident is related in detail in The Battle of the Narrow Seas, A History of the Light Coastal Forces in the Channel and North Sea, 1939-1945, by Lieutenant Commander P. Scott, M.B.E., D.S.C. & Bar, R.N.V.R.: ‘Air/Sea Rescue is a duty shared between the Royal Air Force and the Royal Navy. The R.A.F. uses H.S.L.s (High Speed Launches) and the Navy uses specially constructed R.M.L.s (Rescue Motor Launches), which are larger and slower. Besides these vessels specially designed for the work many other ships have been required to go to the assistance of airmen in distress, amongst them all kinds of Coastal Force craft. Air/Sea Rescue is an all-weather job, for the airmen are just as likely to crash into the sea when it is rough as when it is smooth; the boats must put forth in foul weather as well as fair, for broken hull frames are of no consequence when there are lives to be saved. The R.M.L.s based on the east coast, for example, have done their unspectacular work magnificently, far out in the North Sea, searching in all weathers for the crews of our own and American aircraft damaged in the air battles over the Continent. With the steady increase in air activity, A.S.R. work increased proportionately... With our ever-increasing control of the skies, the danger of being attacked by enemy aircraft while engaged on A.S.R. work grew steadily less. But in the summer of 1942 it was still a serious menace. For example, on the 15th July in the course of a fighter sweep, Wing Commander “Paddy” Finucane, D.S.O., D.F.C., was shot down into the sea 7 miles south-west of Boulogne. Two H.S.L.s and two M.L.s were directed to attempt the rescue, although it was later discovered that he had not survived the crash. The boats reached the Bullock Bank in mid-Channel at about 1.20 in the afternoon when the first of a series of devastating attacks was carried out on them by ten Focke Wulf 190 fighters. First H.S.L. 140 was hit, suffering casualties of one killed and one wounded. One of the aircraft, however, was seen to be damaged. The remainder made H.S.L. 138 (commanded by F/O. W. E. Walters, R.A.F.) the object of their concentrated attention. Walters was wounded in the first attack on his boat and fell forward into the fo’c’sle; the forward gunner was also wounded, but in spite of that the H.S.L. kept firing until all its ammunition was expended. By that time it was burning from stem to stern. The nursing orderly, Aircraftman W. Morgan, who had been badly wounded in the arm, continued to carry out his duties and attended to the casualties below. Every member of the ship’s company had by now been wounded and the fo’c’sle was full of smoke. The attacks continued and a moment later Morgan was killed. Flying Officer Walters and Aircraftman M. Pring, themselves both wounded in the legs but realising the imminent necessity for abandoning ship, struggled to carry the gunner to the upper deck. When finally they succeeded they collapsed on the deck. Aircraftman Pring was the first to come to, and he pushed the other two over the side and joined them in the water. Having set the H.S.L. on fire the German fighters switched their attack to M.L. 139. Her Commanding Officer - Lt. A. R. S. Hodgson, R.N.V.R., records that they made five runs, in the first of which the fuel tanks were set on fire. The second caused another fire aft and a number of casualties, but in each of these runs one aircraft was damaged and the second time pieces were seen to fall off the target. Each successive attack increased the damage and the casualties. The fires were the most serious menace, however. The methyl-bromide extinguishers had been released in the petrol compartment, but the fire was only partially extinguished and the compartment was filled with the deadly gas. In spite of this, Acting Chief Motor Mechanic L. Adams and Able Seaman G. Sandford, armed with hoses and Pyrenes, entered this most inaccessible compartment without breathing apparatus and put out the fire. They both worked in this confined space well knowing that the tank, with over a thousand gallons of high-octane spirit, had been pierced and that petrol vapour was present which might explode at any time; and in addition the ship was still under fire. In the opinion of the Commanding Officer the ship was saved by the bravery and resource of these two men, who were later awarded the C.G.M. When the Germans flew off and the fires had been brought under control, M.L. 139, with two officers and two ratings wounded, went at once to the assistance of the burning H.S.L., where three survivors were taken from the water. M.L. 141 which had so far escaped attack, although she had been engaging the Germans as they attacked the others, rescued seven more survivors of the H.S.L. from their raft and proceeded to destroy the blazing wreck by depth charges. Twenty minutes later six more F.W. 190s appeared, and although our Spitfires were protecting the other M.L., the enemy managed to carry out one run on 141 from ahead, in the course of which one officer was killed and three ratings we...

A Great War submariner’s D.S.M. group of three awarded to Leading Seaman H. C. Wright, H.M. Submarine D7, for the sinking of the U-45 in September 1917 Distinguished Service Medal, G.V.R. (191473 H. C. Wright, Lg. Sean. H.M.S. “D7” Atlantic Ocean 12th Sept. 1917); Queen's South Africa 1899-1902, 1 clasp, Natal (H. C. Wright, A.B., H.M.S. Doris) impressed naming; 1914-15 Star (191473 H. C. Wright, L.S. R.N.) light pitting, otherwise very fine (3) £1,200-£1,600 --- D.S.M. London Gazette 17 November 1917: ‘For services in action with enemy submarines.’ The recommendation states: ‘Sinking of German submarine U45 12 September 1917. Since joining the flotilla on 14 April Submarine D7 has done 99 days on patrol and 54 days in harbour, which I believe to be a record for any overseas patrol, and which has only been possible through the sustained and united hard work of the whole of the crew, and especially the engine room staff.’ ‘It was not until September 1917 that a patrol submarine north of Ireland achieved a sinking. U-45 (Sittenfield) had sailed with U-88 and U-54 on the 5th; a week later she was on the surface west of the Shetlands when D-7 sighted her and dived to attack. Twenty minutes later a stern torpedo, fired at 800 yards, struck the U-boat just before the conning tower. One of the two survivors picked up by the British submarine was the radio operator, who had been about to send a message to Wilhelmshaven. He did not have time to do so, and the German command had no idea as to where U-45 was sunk.’ The commanding officer of D7, Lieutenant O. E. Hallifax, was awarded the D.S.O. for this action, as well as one D.S.C. and two further D.S.M.s to other members of the crew. Herbert Charles Wright was born on 10 July 1881, and joined the Navy in July 1899. He joined the submarine branch in November 1912 and served aboard H.M. Submarine D7 from that date until February 1919. He served aboard E33 towards the end of that year and was Shore Pensioned in July 1921.

A fine Second War ‘Malta Convoy’ D.S.M. group of six awarded to Chief Stoker C. E. Hughes, Royal Navy, for his gallantry during the Second Battle of Sirte on 22 March 1942 when H.M.S. Kingston was hit by a 15-inch shell whilst escorting convoy MW10 from Alexandria to Malta; arriving in Malta he was wounded when the stricken Kingston was hit during an air raid on the Grand Harbour on 4 April 1942 and later sank; he had previously been recommended for the D.S.M. for his services in the same ship, for which he was ultimately Mentioned in Despatches Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (K.58629 W. C. Hughes. Ch. Sto.); 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Africa Star, 1 clasp, North Africa 1942-43; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf, nearly extremely fine (6) £1,400-£1,800 --- D.S.M. London Gazette 8 September 1942: ‘For gallantry, skill and seamanship in H.M. Ships... Kingston... in a brilliant action against strong enemy forces which were driven off and severely damaged. This action resulted in the safe passage to Malta of an important convoy.’ The original Recommendation states: ‘For fine leadership, initiative and devotion to duty as senior rating of damage control parties when the ship was hit by a 15” shell. Through his efforts and organising ability a fire which might have proved serious was extinguished before it had a chance to get out of control.’ In his report to the Admiralty, Commander Philip Sommerville, D.S.O, D.S.C., R.N., records: ‘I have the honour to report my proceedings during and after the action between the convoy escort and enemy surface forces during the passage of convoy MW10 from Alexandria to Malta. A Divisional torpedo attack was launched at an enemy battleship accompanied by three cruisers. These forces engaged the division with main and secondary armaments. At 18:46 on 22 March Kingston was hit by a 15-inch shell which passed through the whaler on the starboard side, through No. 2 Boiler Room intake and the S.R.E. Room, and exploded under the port Oerlikon platform. Shortly after managing a turn to fire our torpedoes the ship stopped. Before the enemy battleship passed out of view she was seen to be on fire forward and the explosion of one torpedo was observed. The widespread damage to Kingston was quickly got under control by prompt and resourceful action by all hands. The fire in the S.R.E. Room was extinguished remarkably quickly. Nearly all the torpedo tubes crew were killed or wounded and on the 4-inch gun deck no one escaped injury. Casualties were also sustained on the Oerlikon and searchlight platforms and at ‘X’ gun. One officer and fourteen ratings were killed and one officer and twenty ratings wounded. By 19:05 the Kingston was able to proceed on the starboard engine at 16 knots which later increased to 20 knots. I proceeded independently to Malta. I entered Malta Harbour at 08:38 on 23 March.’ M.ID. London Gazette 11 June 1942: ‘For services aboard H.M.S. Kingston’ (downgraded D.S.M. recommendation). Edward Charles Hughes was born in Hackney, London, on 21 January 1902 and entered the Royal Navy as a Stoker Second Class in H.M.S. Victory on 24 March 1920. Advanced Stoker Petty Officer on 290 December 1928, he was awarded his Long Service and Good Conduct Medal on 22 June 1935, and having been advanced Chief Stoker joined H.M.S. Kingston on 15 September 1939, serving in her during the first three years of the Second World War. Hughes was awarded the D.S.M. for his gallantry during a convoy to Malta on 22 March 1942, and having arrived safely in the Grand Harbour was wounded during an air raid on Malta on 4 April 1942; Commander Philip Somerville, the Captain of H.M.S. Kingston, was killed in this raid, along with one other officer and ten ratings. Kingston was hit again by a bomb on 8 April, and three days later, on 11 April 1942, she received another direct hit which broke her back and she sank. Hughes’s D.S.M. was announced in September 1942, in the same London Gazette that the operational awards for Operation Pedestal were announced, and he was subsequently congratulated by Lieutenant G. J. Kirkby, D.S.C., formerly of H.M.S. Kingston, on 29 October 1942: ‘Dear Hughes, I was delighted to read your name among those in the recent list of awards for our action in March. Please accept my heartiest congratulations. It is a shame we are not still all happily together to celebrate in the old style in the Wardroom. I could then thank you personally for the splendid work you did on that occasion, and for your continuous hard work and efficiency and unfailing loyalty to all of us throughout all that grand commission. Are you recovered from the injuries you received in April? It nearly broke my heart to lose the Captain and so many friends, and to think of the old ship being so remorsely attacked during that unhappy period. I have been out of Destroyers since that time, but hope to go back very soon. Again let me congratulate you and wish you good luck.’ Hughes was invalided out of the Royal Navy on 16 March 1943. Sold with the recipient’s original M.I.D. certificate, dated 11 June 1942, and original letter to Hughes from Lieutenant Kirkby, as quoted above; together with copied record of service and other research.

A Second War D.S.M. awarded to Acting Chief Motor Mechanic C. Lonsdale, Royal Navy, for his gallantry during M.L. 238’s daring entry into the enemy held harbour at Krk, in the northern Dalmatians, on the night of 6 December 1944 Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (A/C.M.M. C. Lonsdale. P/MX.99499.) extremely fine £1,600-£2,000 --- D.S.M. London Gazette 21 August 1945: ‘For courage, initiative, and great devotion to duty in damage control after the M.L. 28 [sic - M.L. 238] had made a daring entry into the enemy-held harbour of Krk, on the night of 6 December 1945 [sic - 1944]’. M.L. 238’s Daring entry into Krk Harbour ‘A further spirited engagement was the outcome of a daring entry by M.L. 238, under the command of Lieutenant-Commander W. Gibson, R.N.R., into the harbour of the enemy-occupied island of Krk, in the northern Dalmatians south of Fiume. Three Motor Launches were involved: Gibson’s vessel; M.L. 468 (Lieutenant F. A. Scott, R.N.V.R.); and M.L. 460 (Lieutenant K. D. Dewar, R.N.V.R.). Gibson had been ordered to hunt out and to attack two enemy craft reported to be patrolling off Krk. They arrived on their ground soon after 9 p.m. on 6 December 1944. There was a full moon, with a south-easterly breeze and slight swell, with occasional heavy rain squalls blotting down the visibility to almost nothing. The patrol was carried out within 100 to 200 yards of the shore, Gibson purposely keeping close in, as the moonlight was very bright between squalls and he wanted to keep under the shadow of the land. However, they sighted no enemy craft, and at about 11.30 p.m. moved off towards Krk town with the intention of ‘having a look in the harbour, with the possibility of sinking something inside’. At ten minutes past midnight, Gibson detached Motor Launches 468 and 460 half a mile from the harbour entrance with orders to cover him with their gunfire ‘if things got too warm and I am unable to get out’. He took his own ship into the little port, which has an entrance about 200 yards wide and is partly protected by a breakwater, the end of which he passed within 50 yards. About 300 yards away he soon saw what he took to be five craft tucked into a corner of the harbour deep under the shadow of the land. They looked like schooners and lighters; but, wishing to make certain, he switched on his small searchlight. The moment he did so he was fired upon by a battery of six 20-mm guns. As he wrote: ‘I opened fire with Bofors at the surface craft ahead... They [the 20-mm. guns] were replied to by our midship and after Oerlikons. Numerous light machine guns were observed firing from both the mole to port and a low quay to starboard... These were silenced in about one minute by very effective fire from both port and starboard twin Vickers. Hits were observed in the direction of the surface craft, and a dull red glow was seen, followed by a small explosion.’ Then the Bofors shifted its fire to the shore battery on the starboard bow. The noise of the gunfire was terrific. ‘We were receiving some hits from these guns, and the white tracer from their guns, and the red tracer, together with shell-bursts of Oerlikon and Bofors, were illuminating the town and ship at so close a range - roughly 100 yards. At about 20 minutes past midnight Gibson put his engine to slow astern, with the idea of backing out of harbour. But the stern of his ship fell off to starboard, which left her across the harbour entrance. It was then found that both engines were out of action, petrol pipes having been cut by a 20-mm shell bursting in the engine-room. However, except for one gun, all the shore batteries had ceased firing, and a few rounds from the Bofors silenced this one. ‘I ordered cease fire, although still in the harbour entrance, about 50 yards from the south mole. My intention was to make another investigation and see if the boat could be got clear without calling in the others to assist.’ They succeeded in this. The fuel tanks were changed over, and although the engines had an airlock in the fuel system, the boat was got under way by constant hand pumping and joined her consorts outside. M.L. 238 was hit at least eleven times by 20-mm shell, and many more times by splinters and bullets. As may be imagined, she was fairly badly knocked about, but by some miracle had no casualties at all. In his report of the engagement, Gibson mentioned Acting Chief Motor Mechanic Cecil Lonsdale and Stoker John Nugent, whose action in the engine-room undoubtedly saved the ship from destruction. This was endorsed by a senior officer, who added that the shooting of M.L. 238’s guns seemed to have been very accurate against the shore positions, ‘which is very much to the credit of the discipline and morale of the crew under close and heavy fire’. Sold with original Naval Gratuity Certificate, awarding the recipient a gratuity of £20 in respect of his D.S.M.; and somewhat damaged Admiralty enclosure announcing the award of the D.S.M.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. and Second Award Bar group of four awarded to Lance-Corporal C. E. Falder, Hampshire Regiment Military Medal, G.V.R., with Second Award Bar (11617 A.L. Cpl. C. E. Falder. 11/Hants: R.); 1914-15 Star (11617 Pte. C. E. Falder. Hamps: R.); British War and Victory Medals (11617 Pte. C. E. Falder. Hamps. R.) nearly extremely fine (4) £600-£800 --- Provenance: Glendining’s, March 1995. M.M. London Gazette 19 November 1917. M.M. Second Award Bar London Gazette 11 December 1918. Charles E. Falder attested for the Hampshire Regiment at Highbury, and served with the 11th Battalion during the Great War on the Western Front from 19 December 1915. He was awarded the Military Medal whilst serving with the 11th Battalion, and a Second Award Bar whilst serving with the 2nd/4th Battalion. Sold with a photographic image of the recipient; and copied research.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. group of five awarded to Private W. T. Willis, Hampshire Regiment, who was wounded by gun shot to the head in 1916 Military Medal, G.V.R. (7184 Pte. W. T. Willis. 2/Hamps: R.); 1914 Star, with clasp (7184. Pte. W. T. Willis. 1/Hamps: R.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (7184 Pte. W. T. Willis. Hamps. R.); Army L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue (548506 Pte. W. T. Willis. M.M. Hamps. R.) mounted court-style, edge bruise to MM, contact marks, polished, therefore good fine; the LS&GC better (5) £300-£400 --- M.M. London Gazette 11 February 1919. William T. Willis attested for the Hampshire Regiment and served with the 1st Battalion during the Great War on the Western Front from 12 September 1914. He was wounded by gun shot to the head in 1916, but recovering was posted to the 2nd Battalion, with whom he was awarded the Military Medal. He was awarded his Long Service and Good Conduct Medal per Army Order 136 of 1926. Sold with copied research. Note: M.I.D. unconfirmed.

A Great War ‘Vimy Ridge’ M.M. awarded to Lance-Corporal J. Hebden, 10 Field Company, Canadian Engineers Military Medal, G.V.R. (504045 L. Col. J. Hebden. 10/F. Coy. Can: E.) good very fine £200-£300 --- M.M. London Gazette 9 July 1917. The official recommendation states: ‘On Vimy Ridge, April 7/8th, 1917. For gallant conduct and devotion to duty while assisting in the supervision of the digging of an assembly trench in front of our front line, between Irish and Kennedy Craters. His party was twice scattered by heavy shelling but he collected his party and placed them and inspired them with the confidence necessary to complete their task, regardless of the exposure to which he himself was subjected.’ Joseph Hebden died of wounds on 27 October 1917 received the same day on the Abraham Heights in the battle of Passchendaele. He served in France from 10 August 1916, and was wounded at duty on 3 March 1917. He is buried in Vlamertinghe New Military Cemetery. Sold with copied recommendation and record of service.

A Great War ‘Passchendaele Ridge’ M.M. group of three awarded to Sergeant E. A. Hammond, 42nd Canadian Infantry Battalion (Royal Highlanders of Canada), who was wounded three times during the war Military Medal, G.V.R. (136045 Sjt: E. A. Hammond. 42/Can: Inf:); British War and Victory Medals (136045 W.O. Cl. 2. E. A. Hammond. 42-Can. Inf.) nearly very fine (3) £400-£500 --- M.M. London Gazette 23 February 1918. The official recommendation states: ‘For the conspicuous gallantry displayed by this N.C.O. in the attack on Passchendaele Ridge on 2/3rd November 1917. When his platoon were hard pressed he displayed outstanding courage and coolness doing much to assist his Platoon Commander in dealing with the situation.’ Sold with copied recommendation and record of service which shows him as being wounded in September 1916, September 1918, and November 1918.

Family Group: A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. group of three awarded to Sergeant W. J. Malcolm, 46th Battalion (South Saskatchewan), Canadian Infantry, who was wounded in action on 2 September 1918, and died from his wounds on 9 October 1918 Military Medal, G.V.R. (437003 Sjt W. J. Malcolm. 46/Can: Inf.); British War and Victory Medals (437003 Sjt. W. J. Malcolm. 46-Can. Inf.); Memorial Plaque (William John Malcolm); Canadian Memorial Cross, G.V.R. (437003 Sjt. W. J. Malcolm. M.M.) campaign awards lacquered, very fine Three: Private D. A. Malcolm, 5th (The Sutherland and Caithness) Battalion, Seaforth Highlanders, who died of wounds on the Western Front, 2 October 1917 1914-15 Star (2515 Pte D. A. Malcolm. Sea: Highrs); British War and Victory Medals (2515 Pte. D. A. Malcolm. Seaforth.); Memorial Plaque (David Alexander Malcolm) campaign awards lacquered, generally very fine or better Pair: Private J. D. Malcolm, 5th (The Sutherland and Caithness) Battalion, Seaforth Highlanders, who was killed in action on the Western Front, 13 November 1916 British War and Victory Medals (4812 Pte. J. D. Malcolm. Sea. Highrs.); Memorial Plaque (James Donald Malcolm) campaign awards lacquered, generally very fine or better (12) £800-£1,000 --- M.M. London Gazette 11 March 1919. William John Malcolm was born in Caithness, Scotland in October 1893. He served during the Great War with the 46th Battalion (South Saskatchewan), Canadian Infantry in the French theatre of war. Malcolm was wounded in action, 2 September 1918, and died from his wounds, 9 October 1918. Sergeant Malcolm is buried in the Abbeville Communal Cemetery Extension, France. He had two brothers, who both served with the Seaforth Highlanders, and were both killed during the Great War. David Alexander Malcolm was born in Watten, Caithness, Scotland and was the son of Mr and Mrs G. Malcolm of Castletown, Caithness. He served during the Great War with the 5th (The Sutherland and Caithness) Battalion, Seaforth Highlanders in the French theatre of war from 4 December 1915. Private Malcolm died of wounds on the Western Front, 2 October 1917, and is buried in the Wimereux Communal Cemetery, France. James Donald Malcolm was the younger brother of the above, and also served during the Great War with the same battalion as his brother. He was killed in action on the Western Front, 13 November 1916, and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial, France.

A Great War ‘Vimy Ridge’ M.M. group of three awarded to Private J. E. Cooper, 46th Canadian Infantry Battalion Military Medal, G.V.R. (472903 Pte. J. Cooper. 46/Can: Inf:); British War and Victory Medals (472903 Pte. J. E. Cooper. 46-Can. Inf.) together with Silver War Badge (No. C20713) this with pin removed and suspended from a chain, edge bruising and contact marks, therefore good fine and better (4) £400-£500 --- M.M. London Gazette 9 July 1917. The official recommendation states: ‘On Vimy Ridge, on the 12th day of April, 1917. Was stretcher-bearer in an attack on the Pimple Area. He set a splendid example of bravery by getting ahead of the men who were stuck in the mud in No Man’s Land and encouraging them to advance. This was done under very difficult conditions and under heavy rifle and machine gun fire. In the past he has done splendid work in tending wounded, and whenever the enemy’s bombardment became severe, made his way to the shelled area, to attend to those requiring assistance. He was recommended for award for fine work in the Somme area, but this award was not granted.’ Sold with copied recommendation.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. awarded to Private O. B. Thompson, 75th Canadian Infantry Battalion Military Medal, G.V.R. (1090197 Pte. O. B. Thompson. 75/Can: Inf:) nearly very fine £180-£220 --- M.M. London Gazette 13 March 1919.

A Great War ‘East Africa’ M.M. awarded to Private Mbetewa, King’s African Rifles Military Medal, G.V.R. (2431 Pte. Mbetewa. 2/2 K.A.R.) minor edge bruise, polished, therefore good fine, the reverse better £240-£280 --- M.M. London Gazette 28 July 1917.

A Second War 1944 North West Europe ‘Nijmegan Bridgehead’ ‘Immediate’ M.M. group of five awarded to Sergeant W. Reddall, Hampshire Regiment Military Medal, G.VI.R. (5493412 Sjt. W. Reddall, Hamps. R.); 1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted court-style, extremely fine (5) £1,000-£1,400 --- M.M. London Gazette 5 April 1945: ‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North West Europe.’ The original Recommendation states: ‘On 8 November 1944 during the fighting in the Nijmegan bridgehead near Bemmel, Sergeant Reddall was Platoon Sergeant of a platoon who were within 150 yards of the enemy. German S.S. men got up into the top floor of a house with a spandau and began to snipe Sergeant Reddall’s Company. Sergeant Reddall crept forward with a Piat and hit the house three times. It was completely burnt out with the Germans inside, and later a patrol found the remains of two burnt-out spandaus in the top room. Sergeant Reddall’s gallantry and offensive spirit were a fine example for the men of his platoon.’

A Second War 1944 ‘North West Europe’ M.M. group of six awarded to Private P. Ellis, 1st Battalion, Hampshire Regiment Military Medal, G.VI.R. (4758405 Pte. P. Ellis. Hamps. R.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; France and Germany Star; War Medal 1939-45, nearly extremely fine £1,000-£1,400 --- Provenance: Baldwin, July 1969. M.M. London Gazette 1 March 1945: ‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North West Europe.’ The original Recommendation, dated 26 August 1944, states: ‘At St. Peirre la Vieille on 11 August [1944], Private Peter Ellis was acting as Dispatch Rider to the Battalion Command Post. The forward rifle companies were separated from the command post by a ravine which was under continual enemy small arms and heavy mortar fire to the extent that it was impossible to get any track vehicles up to the Companies. Throughout the day Private Ellis acted as Dispatch Rider between the Command Post and these forward troops, and at frequent intervals when Wireless Telegraphy communication failed he was the only link. He also accompanied the Commanding Officer on all his reconnaissances, and whilst doing so showed complete disregard for his own personal safety. Private Ellis’s coolness, bravery, and fine example under fire throughout a long and trying day were outstanding.’ Sold with copied research.

A good Second War 1945 immediate ‘North West Europe’ M.M. awarded to Sherman tank driver Trooper R. P. Janes, 5th Armoured Regiment (8th Princess Louise's (New Brunswick) Hussars), who was permanently engaged with enemy anti-tank fire during the advance from Voordhuizen to Putten, 17 April 1945. Despite his tank being hit, and his hand being mangled by shrapnel, Janes managed to stay the course with his crew loading the 17 pdr gun and manning the wireless set when he could no longer drive. His tank destroyed 2 anti-tank guns, killing or capturing 22 of the enemy Military Medal, G.VI.R. (K 66356 Tpr. R. P. Janes. C.A.C.) mounted on investiture pin, surname officially corrected, good very fine £700-£900 --- M.M. London Gazette 11 October 1945, the original recommendation states: ‘On 17 April 1945 during the advance from Voordhuizen to Putten, the tank driven by Trooper Janes was hit by an anti-tank gun and Trooper Janes himself was hit in the right hand by shrapnel. He refused to be evacuated and insisted he could carry on. Being unable to drive because of his badly mangled hand, he elected to change places with the loader-operator and load the rounds into the breech of the seventeen pounder gun with which his tank was equipped. A short time later his squadron ran into a strong anti-tank gun position, and, although in great pain and severely handicapped by his mangled hand, Trooper Janes remained at his post and loaded sixteen rounds until the anti-tank gun position was knocked out. During the next four hours Trooper Janes’ squadron was engaged in numerous actions, and Trooper Janes continued to load and operate the wireless set throughout the entire operation. This soldier’s outstanding courage and ceaseless devotion to duty enabled his tank to stay in action at a time when it was badly needed. His tank destroyed two anti-tank guns, killing or capturing twenty-two of the enemy, and played a major part in the success of the squadron’s actions.’ Raymond Percival Janes served with the 5th Armoured Regiment (8th Princess Louise's (New Brunswick) Hussars during the Second World War.

A Second World War ‘North West Europe’ M.M. group of seven awarded to Staff Sergeant L. T. Brown, 7th Canadian Medium Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery Military Medal, G.VI.R. (C.26231 S. Sjt. L. T. Brown. R.G.A.); 1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence Medal, Canadian issue in silver; Canadian Volunteer Service Medal, with overseas clasp; War Medal 1939-45, Canadian issue in silver; Efficiency Medal, G.VI.R., 1st issue, Canada (S/Sgt. L. T. Brown R.C.A.) mounted for display, generally good very fine (7) £1,200-£1,600 --- M.M. London Gazette 11 October 1945, the original recommendation states: ‘Staff Sergeant L. T. Brown, Regimental Artificer, 7 Canadian Medium Regiment, R.C.A., has always done outstanding work in keeping the guns of the regiment in action. During the period 1 February 1945 to 30 April 1945, the guns were subjected to observed enemy gun fire on several occasions but through the efforts of Staff Sergeant Brown the guns were repaired and kept in action. On one occasion the regiment was deployed in square 0540 supporting 4 Canadian Armoured Division in the attack on Veen, square 1186. The gun area was under heavy, observed enemy artillery fire by day and constant enemy bombing and strafing by night. This N.C.O. showed great coolness, perseverance and fortitude in repairing and maintaining guns that had been knocked out. To a great extent it was by his effort that the guns were kept in action, thus materially assisting in the successful outcome of the operation. Again, during the preparation for the Rhine crossing, when the regiment was in action near Wissel, a gun was damaged by observed fire from a 105mm. Staff Sergeant Brown coolly carried on and repaired the gun in spite of the continuing and accurate enemy shelling. Throughout the whole period from Normandy to the present time, this N.C.O. has shown untiring devotion to duty and coolness under fire, and by his technical ability and perseverance he has kept the guns in action which otherwise would have been evacuated and lost to the regiment.’

A Second World War ‘Italian theatre’ M.M. awarded to Private J. C. Bohemier, The Loyal Edmonton Regiment, who distinguished himself as a carrier driver rescuing wounded soldiers during an action around the Pisciatelli River, 17/18 October 1944 Military Medal, G.VI.R. (K.65821 Pte. J. C. Bohemier. C. Inf. C.) with 2 identity discs, surname partially officially corrected, good very fine £600-£800 --- M.M. London Gazette 26 April 1945, the original recommendation states: ‘On the night of the 17/18 October 1944 The Loyal Edmonton Regiment established a bridgehead across the Pisciatelli River. K-65821 Private Joseph Charles Bohemier was a carrier driver with 4 Platoon of Support Company. On 18 October 1944, Private Bohemier volunteered to transport wounded personnel from the forward companies to the Regimental Aid Post, a distance of about 1800 yards. The only crossing place was very bad going even for a carrier as it had been used by tanks and had become a veritable quagmire. Although it was also under intense enemy mortar and artillery fire, Private Bohemier made the crossing five times and successfully evacuated twenty casualties. On one occasion while moving towards one of the forward companies a shell landed a few yards away. The carrier was pierced in a number of places by shrapnel and Private Bohemier was temporarily blinded by mud and blast. Despite this and the fact that he was under enemy observation, this private soldier reached the company where three very serious casualties were waiting to be evacuated. Practically unaided, and under heavy mortar fire, he got the three casualties into the carrier and brought them safely back. Throughout the whole action Private Bohemier showed the greatest courage and devotion to duty, and his gallant action in the face of great danger and difficulties undoubtedly saved the lives of several men who might otherwise have been fatal casualties.’ John Charles Bohemier served as a Carrier Driver with the The Loyal Edmonton Regiment during the Second World War. He returned to Canada after the war, and resided in Lillooet, British Columbia. Bohemier was a prospector and trucker in his time, and he disappeared, presumed drowned, in November 1974. He had set out in his boat on an errand of mercy to help a resident who lived in an isolated cabin on the shores of Seton Lake, and who had not been heard from in some time.

A Sea Gallantry Medal group of three awarded to Chief Officer Seaward Sydenham, S.S. Alleghany, Mercantile Marine, who was awarded all three life saving medals for the rescue of his brother in the North Atlantic on 16 November 1906 Sea Gallantry Medal, E.VII.R., small 2nd issue, silver (Seaward Sydenham, “Alleghany” 16th November 1906); Royal Humane Society, small bronze medal (successful) (Seaward Sydenham, Nov. 16 1906) with integral bronze riband buckle; Lloyd’s Medal for Saving Life at Sea, 2nd small type, silver (Seaward Sydenham “Alleghany” 16 Novr. 1906) mounted for wear, good very fine and better (3) £1,200-£1,600 --- Provenance: Edrington Collection, 1980; W. H. Fevyer Collection, Dix Noonan Webb, September 2008. Seaward Sydenham, Chief Officer of the S.S. Alleghany, of West Hartlepool, was born in Hull on 11 June 1877 and was awarded the Sea Gallantry Medal in Silver for the rescue of his brother from the North Atlantic on 16 November 1906. The official recommendation states: ‘The Carpenter, H. Sydenham fell overboard and his brother the Chief Officer sprang after him with a lifebuoy. Rescuer swam half a mile and only reached his brother as he was getting exhausted. Both rescued by boat from ship. There was considerable risk and a westerly gale with high sea. Rescue took place in North Atlantic on 16 November 1906.’ For this action Sydenham also received the Royal Humane Society Medal in Bronze and the Lloyd’s Medal for Saving Life at Sea in Silver, the respective citations reading: R.H.S. Case no. 35,102: ‘On 16 November, 1906, H. Sydenham was swept overboard from the S.S. Alleghany at sea, there being a heavy gale blowing at the time. S. Sydenham, Chief Officer of the steamer, took a lifebuoy, and jumping in kept him afloat for half an hour when they were picked up by a boat’. ‘On 16 November 1906 the British steamer Alleghany encountered a severe gale whilst on a voyage from Liverpool to Newport News. The Carpenter, who was walking along the deck, was thrown overboard when the ship gave a tremendous lurch. Fortunately the incident had been witnessed and the engines were immediately stopped. The Chief Officer, who was the Carpenter's brother, hearing the cry of “Man Overboard” hurried on deck. On learning that it was his brother in the sea he seized a lifebelt and dived to the rescue. After a severe struggle he succeeded in reaching the drowning man, and held him up until the arrival of one of the ship’s lifeboats. The two men were in an exhausted condition, but subsequently recovered.’ Sold with copied research.

A rare ‘North West Frontier’ B.E.M. group six awarded to Warrant Officer Class 2 A. R. Clarke, Royal Air Force and Royal Navy, for distinguished service with 11 Squadron at Risalpur, India British Empire Medal, (Military) G.V.R. (No. 315032 Flt. Sergt. Arthur Richard Clarke. R.A.F.); British War Medal 1914-20 (315032. Sgt. Mech. A. R. Clarke. R.A.F.) Victory Medal 1914-19 (M.2444 A. R. Clarke. P.O.M. R.N.); India General Service 1908-35, 1 clasp, North West Frontier 1930-31 (315032. F/Sgt. A. R. Clarke. R.A.F.) number partially officially corrected; Jubilee 1935; Royal Air Force L.S. & G.C., G.V.R. (315032. F/Sgt. A. R. Clarke. R.A.F.) mounted for display on card, solder repair to central post of last, nearly very fine (6) £800-£1,000 --- B.E.M. London Gazette 31 July 1931: ‘For services rendered in connection with the operations on the North West Frontier of India between 23 April 1930 and 12 September 1930.’ The original recommendation states: ‘During period May to September, 1930, at Risalpur, N.W.F.P., this N.C.O. has shown a marked devotion to duty and has set an excellent example to all ranks during a period of intensive work under trying weather conditions.’ 1 of only 38 B.E.M.’ (G.V.R.) awarded to the Royal Air Force, and 1 of 7 awarded for distinguished service on the North West Frontier. Arthur Richard Clarke was born in 1894, and joined the Royal Navy in August 1910. He was lent to the Royal Naval Air Service, 25 October 1912 (his R.A.F. personnel number is from the block allotted to ex Royal Navy personnel who were lent to the R.N.A.S. but not formally enrolled into it, and who subsequently transferred to the R.A.F. upon its formation. The differing numbers and Service on the BWM and VM are unusual). Clarke transferred to the Royal Air Force in April 1918, and became an Aircraft Hand and then Rigger (Aero). He served with 11 Squadron at Risalpur, 1928 - 1931, and advanced to Sergeant Major 2nd Class in October 1931 (awarded L.S. & G.C. August 1928). Clarke advanced to Warrant Officer Class 2 in January 1933, and was discharged in October 1936. He died in July 1956. Sold with copied research.

A rare Second War ‘London Blitz’ B.E.M. group of eleven awarded to Lieutenant-Colonel G. J. A. Bartlett, General List, late Sub-Divisional Inspector, Metropolitan Police, and Royal Navy, who was awarded the R.S.P.C.A. Silver Medal for rescuing ‘Roger’, a frightened Collie dog from a bombed out house in Battersea on 28 September 1940 British Empire Medal, (Civil) G.VI.R., 1st issue (Gilbert James Alexander Bartlett); 1914-15 Star (J.25293 G. J. A. Bartlett. L. Tel. R.N.); British War and Victory Medals (J.25293 G. J. A. Bartlett. L. Tel. R.N.); 1939-45 Star; Italy Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; United States of America, Medal of Freedom, bronze; R.S.P.C.A. Life Saving Medal, silver (Sub. Div. Insp. Bartlett. 1940.) with integral top ‘For Humanity’ riband bar, mounted for wear, generally good very fine and better (11) £800-£1,000 --- B.E.M. London Gazette 26 September 1941: Gilbert James Alexander Bartlett, Sub-Divisional Inspector, “L” Division, Metropolitan Police [in a joint citation with John Searle, Leader, Civil Defence Rescue Party, Battersea; and George Edward Thomas Smith, Leader, Stretcher Party, Civil Defence Casualty Service, Battersea] ‘Bombs demolished several houses under which people were sheltering. Inspector Bartlett made a tunnel ten feet long into the mass of unstable debris and found two injured women. He rendered first aid and then pulled them slowly out. Renewing his search he discovered more casualties whose injuries were such that under the direction of a doctor he administered morphia. He was joined by Leaders Searle and Smith. Owing to the confined space it was necessary for the three men to work lying down and while so doing debris and masonry were continually falling on them. After four hours’ strenuous effort six persons were released. Bartlett, Searle and Smith showed great courage and endurance.’ United States of America Medal of Freedom London Gazette 16 November 1948: Lieutenant-Colonel (temporary) Gilbert James Alexander Bartlett, B.E.M., General List ‘In recognition of distinguished services in the cause of the Allies.’ The official citation states: ‘Lieutenant-Colonel Gilbert J. A. Bartlett, British Army, performed meritorious service during August 1943 with the Allied Military Government in Sicily. Reports had arrived that there existed an epidemic of typhus on the island of Favignana, about 12 miles off the coast of Sicily. Colonel Bartlett volunteered to investigate. Accompanied by one soldier, he made his way through the heavily mined waters to this island where he found most of the population living in caves, under extremely bad sanitary condition and with an epidemic of typhoid fever. Colonel Bartlett so reorganized and improved conditions on the island that it no longer constituted any problem in Civil Affairs Administration. By his efforts on this hazardous mission he contributed materially to the success of allied Military Government in Sicily.’ Gilbert James Alexander Bartlett was born in Brighton on 31 October 1897 and joined the Royal Navy as a Boy Second Class on 24 June 1913. He served during the Great War in a variety of ships and shore based establishments, predominately H.M.S. Dreadnought from 27 June 1914 to 21 April 1916 and again from 3 June 1916 to 31 March 1917, and was advanced Leading Telegraphist on 31 October 1916. He was shore discharged on 20 December 1919. During the Second World War Bartlett served initially with the Metropolitan Police in Battersea, and was awarded the R.S.P.C.A. Silver Life Saving Medal for his gallantry in rescuing ‘Roger’, a Collie dog, from a bombed out house, along with Police Constable E. P. Kerrison, and War Reserve Police Constable J. Entwistle, on 28 September 1940. This was part of a larger rescue mission, which contributed to the award of the George Medal to P.C. Kerrison, as detailed in the London Gazette of 15 November 1940: ‘On another occasion some premises were completely demolished by an H.E. bomb. Several persons were trapped under debris, two of whom were dead. P.C. Kerrison accompanied by an Inspector [Bartlett] and a War Reserve [Entwistle] entered the basement, the balustrade and steps of which were in danger of collapsing and the passage blocked by debris. They succeeded in rescuing a baby and two women through the side of the demolished shelter. The coping stones at the side of the steps collapsed whilst they were carrying a woman out of the basement. It was then discovered that another woman was on the top floor, all the rooms of which were exposed, the back and side walls being demolished and the front partially demolished. The P.C. obtained an old decayed ladder and climbed and entered the room rescuing the woman. Shortly after the rescue, further parts of the exposed floorings, and the frontage of the house fell away.’ During this rescue the three men carried ‘Roger’ to safety before the building collapsed. Roger, frightened by the bombing, had initially attacked his rescuers. Bartlett was awarded the British Empire Medal for his gallantry in Battersea on 10 May 1941; he had earlier shown great gallantry on 16 April 1940 in rescuing various persons from a bombed and flooded house in the same vicinity. Subsequently commissioned onto the General List, he was ultimately advanced to the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel. Sold with a photographic image of the recipient alongside Kerrison and Entwistle after they had rescued Roger; and copied research, including various eyewitness statements relating to his B.E.M.-winning exploits.

The rare Second War B.E.M. group of six awarded to Master Engineer C. V. Worgan, Balloon Command, Royal Air Force, for his service as a balloon operator with “Q” Flight, 952 Squadron during 24 round trips as part of the Channel Mobile Balloon Barrage - he was subjected to attack from air, land and sea. Worgan was later remustered to Aircrew Duties, and served operationally in the Near East British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (649845 A.C. 1. Cl. Charles V. Worgan. R.A.F.); 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; General Service 1918-62, 2 clasps, Near East, Cyprus (M. Eng. C. V. Worgan (649845) R.A.F.) last with unofficial retaining rod between clasps, mounted on card for display, nearly extremely fine (6) £500-£700 --- B.E.M. London Gazette 1 January 1942, the original recommendation (for the D.S.M. and jointly listed with 7 other members of 952 Squadron Balloon Command - later reduced to 4, with them being awarded the B.E.M.) states: ‘These balloon operators have shown devotion to duty in the face of continuous enemy attacks by fire from the French coast, dive bombing and E-boat attacks, during 24 round trips in the Channel Mobile Balloon Barrage in the English Channel between Sheerness and Southampton.’ Charles Vernon Worgan had his B.E.M. presented to him by H.M. The King at Buckingham Palace, 19 May 1942. The awarded was a reflection of his service with 952 Squadron, Balloon Command. An indication of their duties is given in A Study in Passive Defence by Flight Lieutenant R. F. Delderfield, which appeared in The Royal Air Force Quarterly: ‘With the opening of the first phase of the enemy’s pre-invasion air onslaught upon Southern England, balloons were seen in a new role. The Luftwaffe preceded its attack upon airfields by an attempt to paralyse Britain’s Channel shipping. On 4th August, 1940, the first Channel convoy protected by towed balloons moved along the coast from Falmouth to Sheerness. From that time onwards, for a period of three years, convoy escort was to prove an important part of Balloon Command’s routine duties. The journey of the first balloon-escorted convoy proved uneventful, but during the return trip the ships were subjected to a violent attack by enemy E-boats by night. The following morning thirty Ju. 87’S, escorted by Me. 109’s, attempted to dive-bomb the convoy, the fighters concentrating on the balloons while the Junkers bombed the vessels. Several balloons were shot down and after the fight R.A.F. operators took over a variety of duties, tending wounded, assisting the seamen and even steering some of the vessels. Work in connection with the protection of ships involved the setting up of shore servicing stations in almost every port round the British coast. “Q” Flight of No. 952 Squadron, which was engaged in convoy work for a considerable period, earned a large number of naval decorations, probably a higher percentage than any small unit of R.A.F. personnel throughout the war. They shared two M.B.E.s, five D.S.M.s, four B.E.M.s and five “Mentions.” Worgan, after a break in Service, remustered to Aircrew Duties, and saw operational service in the Suez in 1956. He was promoted to Master Engineer in August 1956, and retired in 1961. Sold with copied research.

A Second War B.E.M. group of three awarded to Corporal D. A. Shadwell, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (1717024 Cpl. Denis A. Shadwell. R.A.F.V.R.); Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted as worn, good very fine (3) £200-£240 --- B.E.M. London Gazette 12 June 1947. Denis Alfred Shadwell born in Wandsworth in 1923. Sold with an original Royal Air Force Headquarters letter announcing the award of the B.E.M. from Group Captain R. H. Young on behalf of Air Commander-in-Chief R.A.F. Mediterranean/Middle East, addressed to 132 Stockwell Road, London S.W.9.

A post-War B.E.M. group of six awarded to Chief Yeoman of Signals F. T. H. Harwood, Royal Navy, later Officer Keeper Grade 2, Foreign Office British Empire Medal, (Civil) E.II.R. (Frederick Thomas Henry Harwood); 1914-15 Star (J.12339, F. T. H. Harwood, Sig., R.N.); British War and Victory Medals (J.12339 F. T. H. Harwood. L.S. R.N.); Jubilee 1935, unnamed as issued; Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 3rd issue, coinage head (J.12339 F. T. H. Harwood. C.Y.S. H.M.S. Carlisle.) the last five mounted as worn, ship partially officially corrected on last, good very fine (6) £240-£280 --- B.E.M. London Gazette 1 January 1960: Frederick Thomas Henry Harwood, Officer Keeper, Grade 2, Foreign Office. Frederick Thomas Henry Harwood was born in Gibraltar on 5 July 1895 and joined the Royal Navy as a Boy Second Class on 8 May 1911. He served in H.M.S. London from 1914 to 1916 and saw action at Gallipoli. He was advanced Chief Yeoman of Signals on 17 July 1931. He was awarded his Long Service and Good Conduct Medal on 7 February 1933, and was shore pensioned on 14 June 1935. He was recalled for the Second World War and served in H.M.S. Fortitude from August 1939 to 5 September 1941, and was invalided 8 August 1945. He died in Bromley June 1969. Sold with copied record of service and other research, which confirms the award of the Jubilee Medal on 7 May 1935 whilst serving in H.M.S. Defiance.

A well-documented post-War B.E.M. for gallantry group of four awarded to Fireman A. A. Dawton, London Fire Brigade, for his gallantry in rescuing four people from a burning house on 19 December 1963 British Empire Medal, (Civil) E.II.R., with gallantry emblem (Arthur Alec Dawton.) in Royal Mint case of issue; Defence Medal; Fire Brigade L.S. & G.C., E.II.R. (Fireman Arthur A. Dawton); London County Council Fire Brigade Good Service Medal (Arthur A. Dawton 1954); together with two London Fire Brigade cap badges, about extremely fine (4) £600-£800 --- B.E.M. for Gallantry London Gazette 28 July 1964: ‘A fire broke out at a building of five floors and a basement. On the arrival of the brigade the first floor was well alight but people could be seen at a third floor window. An escape was pitched with difficulty and although there was dense smoke at the head of the escape Fireman Dawton ascended and succeeded in helping two women and a man on to the escape. An elderly woman remained in the building and was unable to climb out as the others had done. When she fainted Fireman Dawton entered the room where despite blinding smoke, intense heat and falling and burning debris, he attempted to lift the woman on to his back preparatory to climbing down the escape. On account of her weight he was unable to do this, but managed to pass the still unconscious woman through the window to a Sub-Officer at the head of the escape. There is little doubt that the four people, and particularly the elderly woman, were saved because of the courage and determination displayed by Fireman Dawton.’ Arthur Alec Dawton served as a Fireman with the London Fire Brigade, based at Cannon Street Fire Station, and was awarded the British Empire Medal for Gallantry for the above rescue which took place at 199 Upper Thames Street, EC4, on 19 December 1963. He was presented with his B.E.M. by the Lord Lieutenant of London, Field Marshal the Earl Alexander of Tunis, K.G., at County Hall on 29 October 1964. Sold with named Buckingham Palace enclosure and copy of the London Gazette announcing the award; 10 Downing Street letter announcing the award and London Fire Brigade letter of congratulations; various letters regarding the investiture; Invitation from the Lord Chamberlain to the recipient and his wife to a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace, 21 July 1966; the recipient’s riband bar, with gallantry emblem on the B.E.M. riband; and a large quantity of photographs, including the recipient being invested with his B.E.M. by Lord Alexander.

Three: Corporal l. Barnett, East Kent Regiment India General Service 1895-1902, 1 clasp, Punjab Frontier 1897-98 (3238 Drumr. L. Barnett 1st Bn. “The Buffs”); Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 3 clasps, Cape Colony, Orange Free State, Transvaal (3238 Pte. L. Barnett, E. Kent Regt.); King’s South Africa 1901-02, 2 clasps, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 (3238 Corpl: L. Barnett. E. Kent Regt.) together with Army Temperance Association (India), silver medal, hallmarked Birmingham 1913, unnamed, edge bruising and contact marks, otherwise nearly very fine (4) £220-£260

The unique Defence of Kelat-i-Ghilzie group of three to Major Thomas Studdert, Bombay Engineers, Executive Engineer at Kelat-i-Ghilzai, one of eight British officers present at the defence of that place in May 1842, and the only Engineer officer to receive the medal for Hyderabad 1843 Defence of Kelat-I-Ghilzie 1842 (Lieutt. T. Studdert, Bombay Engineers) naming officially engraved in fine running script, fitted with contemporary hinged silver bar suspension; Ghuznee Cabul 1842 (Lieutt. T. Studdert, Bombay Engineers) naming officially engraved in fine running script, fitted with contemporary hinged silver bar suspension; Hyderabad 1843 (Lieutt. Thos. Studdert, Bombay Engineers) naming officially engraved in upright serif capitals, original straight bar suspension, all three fitted with matching gold ribbon buckles and contained in a contemporary fitted carrying case, minor edge bruising and knocks, otherwise better than very fine (3) £18,000-£22,000 --- Provenance: George Dalrymple White Collection 1946; Brian Ritchie Collection of H.E.I.C. and British India Medals, Dix Noonan Webb, September 2005. Thomas George Studdert, eldest son of George Studdert, Magistrate, of Dublin, and Letitia, daughter of the Very Reverend Stewart Blacker, of Carrick-Blacker, was born on 21 March 1821. He was educated at the Great Denmark Seminary, Dublin, Addiscombe and Chatham. He was commissioned 2nd Lieutenant in the Bombay Engineers on 11 June 1830, and became Lieutenant on 20 August 1834. After a creditable period as an Assistant Engineer on various works in India, he was placed at the disposal of the ‘Envoy and Minister at Cabool’ and ordered to join the small force at Kelat-i-Ghilzai as Executive Engineer in September 1840. Following the disastrous retreat of the British from Cabul in January 1842, Ghuznee was retaken by the Afghans, and the isolated garrison at Kelat-i-Ghilzai was invested. The garrison consisted of 600 of the Shah’s 3rd Infantry, three companies of the 43rd N.I., forty European Artillery, twenty-three Bombay Sappers and Miners under Lieutenant Studdert and seven other British officers, all under the command of Captain John Halket Craigie. Inspite of ‘cold and privation unequalled by any of the troops in Afghanistan’, the garrison put up a successful defence through the whole winter till relieved in June 1842. The total strength of the garrison of Kelat-i-Ghilzai, situated about eighty miles north east of Candahar, was fifty-five Europeans and 877 natives. On 21 May 1842, the garrison repulsed a particularly determined attack by some 6,000 Afghans. ‘Khelat-i-Ghilzai was attacked at a quarter before four o’clock’, reported Craigie, ‘The enemy advanced to the assault in the most determined manner, each column consisting of upwards of 2,000 men, provided with 30 scaling ladders, but after an hour’s fighting were repulsed and driven down the hill, losing five standards, one of which was planted three times in one of the embrasures... The greatest gallantry and coolness were displayed by every commissioned and non-commissioned officer, and private (both European and Native) engaged in meeting the attack of the enemy, several of whom were bayoneted on top of the sandbags forming our parapets...’ Studdert and his comrades were finally relieved by Colonel G. P. Wymer operating out of Candahar during General Nott’s fluid defence. Studdert thereafter participated in Nott’s march to Cabul in September and the destruction of the great bazaar before withdrawing to India. In 1842-44 Studdert was with Major-General Sir Charles Napier’s 8,000-strong force, which annexed part of northern Scinde, as assistant to the Chief Engineer, Major Charles Waddington, Bombay Engineers. He became Captain on 9 October 1848, Major on 11 November 1853, and died in Dublin on 28 October 1855.

Four: Lieutenant-Colonel Frederick Miller, 80th Foot, who served with the Turkish Contingent during the war in the Crimea India General Service 1854-95, 2 clasps, Pegu, Bhootan (Lieut. F. Miller. 80th Regt.) unofficial rivets between clasps; Indian Mutiny 1857-59, no clasp (Capt. F. Miller, 80th Regt.); Turkish Crimea 1855, Sardinian issue, unnamed, fitted with silver bar suspension; Ottoman Empire, Order of the Medjidie, 4th Class large type breast badge, silver, with gold and enamel centre and Crescent suspension, the first with edge bruising and contact marks, good fine, small chip to Crescent suspension on the last, otherwise very fine and better (4) £700-£900 --- Frederick Miller was appointed ensign in the 80th Foot on 16 May 1845; lieutenant, 4 April 1846; captain, 1 December 1854; brevet major 6 June 1856; lieutenant-colonel, 63rd Foot, 1 January 1868. Lieutenant-Colonel Miller served with the 80th Regiment in the Burmese war of 1852-53 (Medal with Clasp for Pegu). Served in Turkey and the Crimea in 1855-56 with the Turkish Contingent in command of the 1st Regiment of Infantry (Brevet of Major, 4th Class of the Medjidie, and Turkish Medal). Served in India during the mutiny in 1858-59 with the 80th with the column in Futtehpore District, engaged with rebels on 5 March 1858, and the campaign in Oude in October, November, December and January 1858 and 1859 (twice mentioned in despatches, Medal). Served also with the 80th Regiment in the Expedition against Bhootan in 1865 (Clasp).

Six: Chief Petty Officer J. Mitchell, Royal Navy, attached Royal Australian Navy, who was awarded the Naval Good Shooting Medal whilst serving in H.M.A.S. Australia in 1913, the first time an official medal was awarded and named to an H.M. Australian Ship East and West Africa 1887-1900, 1 clasp, Benin 1897 (J. Mitchell, Ord. H.M.S. Theseus.); 1914-15 Star (179801 J. Mitchell, C.P.O., R.N.); British War and Victory Medals (179801 J. Mitchell. C.P.O. R.N.); Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., E.VII.R. (179801 John Mitchell, P.O. H.M.S. Astræa.); Naval Good Shooting Medal, G.V.R. (R.A.N. 8118 J. Mitchell, P.O., H.M.A.S. Australia. 1913. 12in. B.L.) contact marks and minor edge bruising to the pre-Great War awards, generally very fine and better, the last rare (6) £1,200-£1,600 --- H.M.A.S. Australia was the first capital ship of the Royal Australian Navy, and was commissioned on 21 June 1913. The Royal Australian Navy was first engaged during the Great War; consequently, the Naval Good Shooting Medal awarded to H.M.A.S. Australia in 1913 is likely to be the very first medal ever awarded and named to an H.M. Australian Ship. John Mitchell was born at Foscoway, Clackmannanshire, on 3 May 1878 and joined the Royal Navy as a Boy Second Class on 20 may 1894. He served in H.M.S. Theseus from 14 January 1896, and was rated Ordinary Seaman from 3 May 1896. He was advanced Petty Officer First Class on 25 April 1904, and was awarded his Long Service and Good Conduct Medal on 22 May 1911. He was seconded to the Royal Australian Navy for three years from 24 May 1913, and served throughout that period in H.M.A.S. Australia. He spent the rest of the War in various shore based establishments, and was shore pensioned on 2 May 1918, joining the Royal Fleet Reserve the following day.

Six: Squadron Sergeant-Major Rough Rider H. Colman, 5th Dragoon Guards, later Lieutenant, Army Service Corps Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 3 clasps, Natal, Orange Free State, Transvaal (3200 Sq. S. Major. R.R. H. Coleman [sic], 5th. Dragoon Guards.); King’s South Africa 1901-02, 2 clasps, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 (3200 S. Serjt:- Maj: H. Colman. 5th. Drgn: Gds:); British War and Victory Medals (Lieut. H. Colman.); Army Meritorious Service Medal, G.VI.R., 1st issue (Sq-S. Mjr. R.R. H. Colman. 5-D. Gds.); Army L.S. & G.C., E.VII.R. (3200 S. Sjt. Mjr. R. Rider H. Coleman [sic]. 5/Dgn. Gds.) heavy contact marks to the Boer War pair, these nearly very fine; the rest good very fine and better (8) £600-£800 --- Harry Colman was awarded his Long Service and Good Conduct Medal in October 1906; and his Meritorious Service Medal per Army Order 49 of 1939. He served as a Lieutenant with the Army Service Corps during the Great War on the Western Front from 5 February 1917. Sold with two bronze Royal Naval and Military Tournament prize medals, the reverses engraved ‘1st. S.V.L. Curragh 1912, S.S.M.R.R. Colman 5.D.G.’ and ‘1st. S.V.S. Curragh 1912, S.S.M.R.R. Colman 5.D.G.’

Pair: Lieutenant the Hon. Robert V. Grosvenor, Imperial Yeomanry, later 3rd Baron Ebury Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 3 clasps, Cape Colony, Orange Free State, South Africa 1901, unofficial rivets between state and date clasps (Lt. The Hon. R. Grosvenor. 21 Co. 2/Impl. Yeo.) engraved naming; Jubilee 1897, silver, unnamed as issued, mounted as worn with the Jubilee Medal first, light contact marks, very fine (2) £600-£800 --- Robert Victor Grosvenor, 3rd Baron Ebury, was born in Beachampton, Buckinghamshire, on 28 June 1868, the son of Robert Wellesley Grosvenor, 2nd Baron Ebury, and served initially as a lieutenant with the 13th Middlesex Volunteer Rifle Corps, being awarded the Diamond Jubilee Medal in that capacity. He served with the 21st (Cheshire) Company, 2nd Battalion Imperial Yeomanry in South Africa during the Boer War, the company being commanded by his cousin, Major Lord Arthur Grosvenor, before returning to England on 21 June 1901. He succeeded his father as 3rd Baron Ebury on 13 November 1918, and died without issue at Amersham, Buckinghamshire, on 5 November 1921, being succeeded to the barony by his brother. Sold with extensive copied research, including various photographic images of the recipient.

Pair: Surgeon J. W. Summerhayes, attached East Lancashire Regiment, who served as Surgeon in Charge of the Military Hospital at Brandfort, Orange River Colony Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 2 clasps, Cape Colony, Orange Free State (J. W. Summerhayes, M.D. Surgeon.) engraved naming; King’s South Africa 1901-02, 2 clasps, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 (Civ. Surgn. J. W. Summerhayes. E. Lanc. Rgt.) good very fine (2) £360-£440 --- James Ward Summerhayes undertook his medical training at Durham and London Universities, and prior to the Boer War was an assistant house surgeon at Nottingham General Hospital. He served during the Boer War in South Africa as a civilian surgeon in charge of the military hospital at Brandfort, Orange River Colony, and also as surgeon attached to the East Lancashire Regiment. Sold with copied medal roll extracts and other research.