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A New Zealand Medal, undated, awarded to 112 J HUTCHINSON 65TH FOOT, lacks suspender bar; a Crimea Medal, 1854, named to W.G.FRENCH 7TH RL.FUSRS.,now mounted as a brooch; a Turkish Silver Coin, now mounted as a brooch (3)

An Africa General Service Medal (Elizabeth II), with clasp KENYA, awarded to E.A./18128822 PTE. MALILE KAMRA, EAST S.C. (naming very faint); a Rhodesia General Service Medal, awarded to n650811 PTE C. PASDAMIRE (2)

A Quantity of Militaria, including British Second World War and post-War buttons, cap badges, glengarry badges cloth shoulder titles, DLI collar badges, shoulder titles and a buckle etc; also, a First World War Trench Art shell canister and cover engraved with Egyptian scenes, a post Second World War German Kriegsmarine EM's white tunic, with blue collar and cuffs and trade insignia, an NSKK Belt Buckle, in white metal of domed circular form with applied NSKK badge, a German War Merit Medal and a German 1914-1916 medallion type box containing portrait photographs of German leaders

A First World War "Mons" Trio, awarded to 7311 PTE.R.T.BALLANTYNE, 8/R.SCOTS., comprising 1914 Star with clasp 5TH AUG.22ND NOV.1914, British War Medal and Victory Medal (3)

Coins & Tokens - a Cronebane halfpenny 1789, Bishop head in Profile; George III Irish issue half penny, 1766; others English, 1775, 1806, George II rubbed dates; Victorian and later pennies, half pennies, half crowns, Two shillings, 10 pence pieces etc; Robert Raikes 1880 Sunday school medal; international coins inc Napoleon III, American 1934 five cent etc

Medals & Tokens - Ireland, Orange Association, Silver Medal, 1798, by W Mossop, laureate and armoured bust of William III left, The Glorious & Immortal Memory 1690 around, the reverse Royal arms and supporters, King & Constitution ,34mm diameter, with suspension ring, 19.1g

Gentlemen's jewellery - a gilt metal seal stamp, initialled matrix Jkn; a silver sovereign case, Birmingham 1899; Edward VII coronation medal; dress shirt studs.

A scarce Great War Naval M.S.M. group of five awarded to Leading Seaman T. H. North, Hawke Battalion, Royal Naval Division, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, who served during the defence of Antwerp in 1914 prior to service with the armed merchant cruiser H.M.S. Orotava 1914 Star, with copy clasp (B4/842. T. H. North, A.B. Hawke Bttn. R.N.D.); British War and Victory Medals (B.4-842 T. H. North. L.S. R.N.V.R.); Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue (4/842. T. H. North. A.B. R.N.V.R. Bristol Div.); Royal Naval Meritorious Service Medal, G.V.R. (B4/842. T. H. North, Ldg. Sea. R.N.V.R. “Orotava” 1 July-11, Nov. 1918) generally nearly very fine (5) £700-£900 --- M.S.M. London Gazette 22 April 1919. Thomas Herbert North was born in Coombe Dingle, Westbury on Trym, Somerset in May 1890. He joined the Bristol Division of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve in July 1910. North transferred to the Hawke Battalion, Royal Naval Division in August 1914, and took part in the defence of Antwerp. Subsequent service included with H.M.S. Orotava (armed merchant cruiser), 21 December 1914 - 30 November 1917, and 1 March - 31 December 1918. She was armed with five 6-inch guns and two 6-pounder H.A. guns and was commissioned on 17 December 1914, as part of the 10th Cruiser Squadron, from December 1914 to October 1916 with the Northern Patrol. Orotava was converted to a Seaplane Tender about November 1916, after which she was off West Africa and in the Southern Atlantic from November 1916 to November 1917. North was demobilised in February 1919, and died in Victoria, Australia in 1956. Sold with copied research.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.C. group of four awarded to Reverend J. Jackson Wright, Chaplain to the Forces 3rd Class, Army Chaplains Department Military Cross, G.V.R., the reverse inscribed ‘Rev. J. Jackson Wright A.C.D. 1916’; 1914-15 Star (Rev. J. J. Wright. A.C.D.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (Rev. J. J. Wright.) mounted as worn, very fine (4) £800-£1,000 --- M.C. London Gazette 1 January 1917. M.I.D. London Gazette 4 January and 24 December, 1917; and 10 July 1919. John Jackson Wright served as a Chaplain 4th Class with the Army Chaplains Department in France from 6 October 1915. He was awarded the M.C. in 1916, was thrice mentioned in despatches, and ended the war as Chaplain to the Forces 3rd Class. Sold with copied gazette entries and Medal Index Card which gives his address as Ballyshannon, Co. Donegal.

A Second War ‘Italian theatre’ M.C. group of four attributed to Captain D. E. Harris, South Wales Borderers, late 2/5th Queen’s Regiment Military Cross, G.VI.R. reverse officially dated ‘1945’ and additionally inscribed ‘Capt. D. E. Harris S. Wales Borderers); 1939-45 Star; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45, these last three all privately named, mounted as worn, good very fine (4) £600-£800 --- M.C. London Gazette 23 August 1945: ‘For gallant and distinguished services in Italy. - Lieutenant Douglas Ewart Harris (324910), The South Wales Borderers (Cardiff).’ The original recommendation states: ‘Lieutenant Douglas Ewart Harris, 2/5th Bn. The Queen’s Royal Regt. Italy, Lake Commacchio. Lt D. A. Harris commanded 11 platoon “B” Coy and took part in all actions from the MENATE landings to the fighting at the approaches to PORTOVERRARA when he was wounded. Throughout this period Lt Harris displayed courage and resolution of the very highest order. In the landings on 11th April 1945, he was the first ashore and wading through two dykes he reached his Platoon objective several hundred yards ahead of the rest of the Pl and by effective use of his tommy gun he took several prisoners and caused the rest of the enemy to withdraw. In all actions this officer led his men, sometimes using a PIAT, sometimes a Bren gun and even captured enemy weapons, Lt Harris displayed aggressive courage of the highest order. On the 12th April he captured an officer and two men, one of whom was wounded, from a house which he himself tackled with a PIAT. On the 13th April when his Coy was counter attacked North of FILO, the Coy Cdr was killed, a number of other casualties suffered and two of the supporting tanks were knocked out. Lt Harris at once took charge, reorganised the Coy and dug in. It was entirely due to his efforts that wounded were evacuated from a very exposed position. Later, on April 18th, when leading his men against the enemy, Lt Harris was himself seriously wounded. At all times this officer displayed gallantry and determination of the very highest order and carried out all tasks given to him in a cheerful and wholehearted manner, even in the face of heavy opposition. He was completely indifferent to danger.’ Douglas Ewart Harris served with No. 1 Commando (3968443) prior to being selected for officer training and posted to OCTU. He was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the South Wales Borderers on 21 July 1944, and won his M.C. whilst a Lieutenant in 2/5th Battalion, The Queen’s Royal Regiment.

A post-War A.F.C. group of seven awarded to Flight Lieutenant H. D. Moseley, Royal Air Force, sometime attached South African Air Force, who also received a Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service in the Air Air Force Cross, E.II.R., reverse officially dated 1961, in Royal Mint case of issue; 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45; Africa Service Medal, the last officially named ‘207335 H. D. Moseley’; together with the related miniature awards, these mounted as worn together with the Q.C.V.S. oak leaf emblem on navy blue riband after the medals, nearly extremely fine (7) £1,600-£2,000 --- A.F.C. London Gazette 10 June 1961. Q.C.V.S. London Gazette 2 January 1956. Harold Douglas Moseley was born in Birmingham on 29 March 1921 and served during the Second World War with both the Royal Air Force and subsequently on secondment to the South African Air Force, most probably with 12 Squadron, who served in East Africa and the Western Desert equipped with the Canberra Bomber. He was commissioned into the General Duties Branch, Royal Air Force on 12 January 1945, and was advanced Flight Lieutenant on 30 June 1952 for subsequent transfer to the Fighter Control Branch. Awarded the Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service in the Air in 1956, and the Air Force Cross in June 1961, he transferred to the Retired List in April 1962, and was subsequently employed at Birmingham Airport. He died in Solihull in December 1995. Sold with the recipient’s Second War identity tags ‘207335 Moseley H, CE’; named Royal Air Force Rating card; Birmingham Airport Identity card; two South African Air Force Pilots Wings, one the padded version removed from uniform, the other a flat version with three button poppers to reverse; a Royal Air Force metal sidecap badge and cloth badge; two Royal Air Force golfing medals, dated 1954 and 1960; various other ephemera, including a photograph of the recipient in uniform on his wedding day; and copied research.

The Great War A.R.R.C. group of four awarded to Nursing Sister J. E. Sword, Canadian Army Medical Corps, who later married Lieutenant-Colonel J. P. Girvan, C.B.E., D.S.O., M.C., V.D., Commanding the 15th (48th Highlanders of Canada) Battalion Canadian Infantry Royal Red Cross, 2nd Class (A.R.R.C.), G.V.R., silver and enamels, mounted on original investiture bow; 1914-15 Star (N. Sister J. E. Sword. Can: A.M.C.); British War and Victory Medals (N. Sister J. E. Sword.) the silver awards dark toned, extremely fine (4) £400-£500 --- A.R.R.C. London Gazette 21 June 1918: ‘Miss Jean Elizabeth Sword, Nursing Sister, Can. Nursing Service, No. 12 Can. Gen. Hospl., Bramshott, Hants.’ On 24 October 1916, Nursing Sister Jean Elizabeth Sword returned to England from No. 2 Canadian General Hospital, Le Treport, France. On 3 November 1916, she was posted to Canada, where, during the following three months it is presumed she and Major John P. Girvan came to know one another. Jean returned to England, before John, on 2 February 1917. Nursing Sister Sword had acted as a blood donor on 22 April 1918, but due to general weakness and an irregular heartbeat, she was hospitalised following the transfusion until 26 April, and then granted sick furlough until 6 May 1918. She married Major John P. Girvan, M.C., 15th Battalion, Canadian Infantry, in London on 6 July 1918, whilst he was attending a Command Officers Course at Aldershot and shortly before he returned to France to take command of his battalion, going on to win the D.S.O. and Bar. Sold with Marriage Certificate dated 6 July 1918; Buckingham Palace Telegram and War Office letter concerning award of the Royal red Cross; two original photographs of Nursing Sister Sword in nursing uniform, one with R.R.C. medal ribbon; a news cutting announcing the death of their elder son, John Maybin Girvan, late Captain and Adjutant, 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion, who jumped into Normandy before the landings, was wounded and taken prisoner, continued his profession as a mining engineer after the war until killed instantly by a falling rock at El Aguilar, Argentina, where he was superintendent of a mine; and a letter from the High Commissioner for Canada, London, expressing condolences upon the death of her husband in 1961. For the recipient’s husband’s medals and his related miniature awards, see Lots 80 and 551. For the recipient’s related miniature awards, see Lot 552.

An Order of St. John, Second War B.E.M. group of six awarded to Miss Violet A. Reading, St. John Ambulance Brigade, who served during the Portsmouth Blitz as a Lay Superintendent, Civil Defence First Aid Post The Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Officer’s (Sister’s) shoulder badge, silver and enamel, with heraldic beasts in angles, on lady’s bow riband; The Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Serving Sister’s shoulder badge, 1st type (1892-1939), circular badge with white enamel cross with heraldic beasts in angles raised above the background; British Empire Medal, (Civil) G.VI.R., 1st issue (Miss Violet A. Reading) on lady’s bow riband; Defence Medal; Coronation 1937, unnamed as issued; Service Medal of the Order of St John, with Additional Award Bar (8401 L/A/Offr. V. Reading. Portsmouth Nsg. Div. No. 2 Dis. S.J.A.B. 1930.) the pre-Second War awards mounted as worn, the Second War awards loose, generally nearly extremely fine (6) £600-£800 --- B.E.M. London Gazette 9 January 1946: Miss Violet Ann Reading, lately, Lay Superintendent, Civil Defence First Aid Post, Portsmouth.’ Miss Violet Ann Reading was born in Portsea, Hampshire, on 17 March 1892 and was a school teacher by profession, as well as a long-serving volunteer with the St. John Ambulance Brigade. She volunteered for part-time service with the Voluntary Aid Detachment during the Great War, and served with distinction throughout the Second World War, including the Portsmouth Blitz, as a Lay Superintendent, Civil Defence First Aid Post. She was awarded the Coronation Medal in 1937 as a ‘Lay Divisional Superintendent, Provincial Ambulance Services), and was appointed a Serving Sister of the Order of St. John in 1939 (London Gazette 23 June 1939), being advanced to Officer in 1943 (London Gazette 25 June 1943). She died in Portsmouth in 1966. Note: In light of her long service with the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Miss Reading is likely to have been entitled to further award bars to her Service Medal of the Order of St. John; clearly these were never fitted. Sold with a copy of Smitten City, The Story of Portsmouth under Blitz; and copied research.

A Crimean War D.C.M. group of three awarded to Private Francis Markey, 41st Regiment, who was severely wounded on 28 December 1854, and died before Sebastopol on 8 February 1855 Distinguished Conduct Medal, V.R. (Francis Markey. 41st Regt.); Crimea 1854-56, 3 clasps, Alma, Inkermann, Sebastopol, this clasp loose as issued (Francis Markey. 41st Regt.) officially impressed naming; Turkish Crimea 1855, Sardinian issue, unnamed, fitted with replacement scroll suspension, mounted on triple buckle bar but lacking pin, good very fine (3) £1,800-£2,200 --- D.C.M. recommendation dated 26 January 1855. Francis Markey was severely wounded in the Crimea on 28 December 1854 (London Gazette 12 January 1855 refers), and died, presumably from his wounds, before Sebastopol on 8 February 1855. His name is shown as McKey in Abbott but Markey on medal rolls and in London Gazette casualty list).

An extremely rare Boer War ‘Balloon Section’ D.C.M. group of three awarded to Company Quartermaster Sergeant W. J. Wellman, Royal Engineers Distinguished Conduct Medal, V.R. (22671 Serjt: W. J. Wellman. R.E.); Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 4 clasps, Cape Colony, Paardeberg, Driefontein, Johannesburg (22671 Serjt: W. J. Wellman R.E.) engraved naming; Army L.S. & G.C., E.VII.R. (22671 Coy. Q.M. Sjt. W. J. Wellman. R.E.) minor edge bruising and contact marks, very fine and extremely rare (3) £6,000-£8,000 --- One of only 2 Distinguished Conduct Medals awarded to the Balloon Section during the Boer War. D.C.M. London Gazette 26 June 1902. W. J. Wellman was decorated for services with the 1st Balloon Section, Royal Engineers (Army Order 10/03 refers). In addition to his D.C.M., he was also Mentioned in Lord Roberts’ Despatch of 1 March 1902 (a continuation of Roberts’ Despatch of 4 September 1901), for services during the period up to 29 November 1900 (London Gazette 17 June 1902). The 1st Balloon Section joined Lord Methuen’s advance on the Modder River and at the battle of Magersfontein, 11 December 1899, observing the enemy and directing the artillery with great effect. In 1900 they provided vital information on the Boer’s positions at Paardeberg, February 1900, even though the 12,000 cubic foot Duchess of Connaught was holed and leaking badly. The gas was transferred to the Bristol which flew at the Battle of Poplar Grove, 7 March 1900, and in the advance from Bloemfontein. This balloon was kept inflated for 22 days on the 165 mile march. They then took part in the engagements at Vet River and Zand River in May 1900. Note: The diary of No. 1 Balloon Section, Royal Engineers during the South African War is held by the R.A.F. Museum, Hendon.

A Boer War D.C.M. awarded to Private D. Donaghue, West Riding Regiment, who was wounded at Clocolan on 22 December 1900 Distinguished Conduct Medal, V.R. (3439 Pte. D. Donaghue. W. Riding Regt.) extremely fine £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 27 September 1901; Army Order 15 of 1902. Abbott states that he was wounded at Clocolan on 22 December 1900 and that he served with the Burma Mounted Infantry, a unit raised from three companies of 100 men from the 2nd Battalions of three regiments then serving in Burma: the Essex Regiment, the Durham Light Infantry and the West Riding Regiment. As they left Rangoon on 24 January 1900 a Burmese lady presented each man with a pink rose, the Burmese emblem of good luck and success.

A Boer War D.C.M. awarded to Gunner J. McGlade, Royal Garrison Artillery Distinguished Conduct Medal, E.VII.R. (87130 Gnr: J. McGlade. R.G.A.) fitted with replacement suspension claw, otherwise nearly extremely fine £800-£1,000 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 27 September 1901; Army Order 15 of 1902. Abbott states that he served with 17 Company, Western Division, Royal Garrison Artillery.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ D.C.M., M.M. pair awarded to Sergeant A. Chadwick, 1/7th West Riding Regiment Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (10888 Sjt: A. Chadwick. M.M. 1/7 W. Rid: R.); Military Medal, G.V.R. (10888 Cpl. A. Chadwick. 1/7 W. Rid: R.) minor official correction to surname on the second, a few scratches to obverse of first, otherwise nearly extremely fine (2) £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 17 April 1919; citation published 25 February 1920: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty east of Nave, on 11th October, 1918, when he led his section under heavy machine gun and shell fire with marked courage and skill. He was continuously in front and showed absolute disregard for his own safety. It was largely owing to him that the advance was carried on in the face of heavy fire.’ M.M. London Gazette 12 June 1918. Alfred Chadwick was a native of Hunslet, Leeds, and proceeded to Gallipoli with the 1/7th Battalion, West Riding Regiment on 7 July 1915.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ D.C.M., M.M. group of five awarded to Sergeant G. T. Stanners, 6th Battalion, Royal Berkshire Regiment Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (12900 L. Cpl. G. T. Stanners. 6/R. Berks: R.); Military Medal, G.V.R. (12900 Sjt: G. T. Stanners. 6/R. Berks: R.); 1914-15 Star (12900 L. Cpl. G. T. Stanners. R. Berks: R.); British War and Victory Medals (12900 A.W.O. 2 Cl. G. T. Stanners. R. Berks. R.) the B.W.M. officially re-impressed, mounted as worn, good very fine (5) £1,600-£2,000 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 14 January 1916; citation published 11 March 1916: ‘For conspicuous gallantry. A bombing party of the battalion occupied a crater caused by the explosion of one of our mines, and one man was blown out of the crater by a trench mortar bomb on the enemy’s side. Serjeant Bowley, Corporal Moore and Lance-Corporal Stanners climbed out of the crater, dug out and rescued the wounded man under rifle fire and bombs. They were within 200 yards of the enemy’s parapet.’ M.M. London Gazette 19 November 1917. George T. Stanners served in France with the 6th Battalion, Royal Berkshire Regiment, from 25 July 1915. Sold with copied gazette entries and Medal Index Card.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ D.C.M. and M.S.M. group of five awarded to Corporal R. F. Olver, 46th Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (321455 Cpl. R. F. Olver. R.G.A.); 1914-15 Star (357 Gnr. R. F. Olver. R.G.A.); British War and Victory Medals (321455 Cpl. R. F. Olver. R.A.); Army Meritorious Service Medal, G.V.R., 1st issue (321455 Cpl. R. F. Olver. R.G.A.) mounted as worn, very fine (5) £800-£1,000 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 3 June 1919; citation published 11 March 1920: ‘At Boiry on the night of 3rd-4th September, 1918, whilst mounting his gun under severe bombing by hostile aircraft, he exhibited great coolness and disregard for his own safety; and previously at Feuchy, in March, 1918, and at Ypres in 1917, under heavy shell fire, he was largely instrumental in the successful withdrawal of his gun.’ M.S.M. London Gazette 18 January 1919 (France). Richard F. Olver served in France with the 46th Siege Battery R.G.A. from 21 October 1916. Sold with copied gazette entry, D.C.M. and Medal Index Cards, these annotated ‘Trace re Parliamentary Enquiry. Army Medal Office 1/6/61.’

A Great War ‘Western Front’ D.C.M. awarded to Acting Sergeant R. H. Ward, 174th Tunnelling Company, Royal Engineers, late Lancashire Fusiliers Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (79985 A. Sjt: R. H. Ward. 174/Tlg: Co: R.E.) good very fine £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 19 August 1916: ‘For conspicuous gallantry. When his officer was wounded on the enemy’s parapet, where they attempted to bomb him, Serjeant Ward went forward, drove off the enemy with bombs, dressed his officer’s wounds, and brought him back under heavy fire.’ Robert H. Ward went to France and Flanders as a Private (No. 8648) in the Lancashire Fusiliers on 11 September 1914. He transferred to the Royal Engineers on 20 April 1915, subsequently serving with the 174th Tunnelling Company. Sold with copied gazette notice, D.C.M. and Medal Index Cards.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ D.C.M. awarded to 2nd Corporal H. Liddle 176th Tunnelling Company, Royal Engineers Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (102009 2. Cpl. H. Liddle. 176/Tlg: Co: R.E.) polished, otherwise nearly very fine £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 27 July 1916: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and good work, notably on one occasion when, after the enemy had exploded a camouflet, he rescued a man from the foul gas with no rescue apparatus. Later, attempting further rescues, he nearly lost his own life.’ Hugh Liddle served in France and Flanders with the Royal Engineers from 8 June 1915. Sold with copied D.C.M. Card and gazette entry.

A Great War ‘Cuinchy, January 1915’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Private J. Gill, 2nd Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment, who was killed in action at Festubert in March 1915 Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (914 Pte. J. Gill. 2/R. Suss: Regt.); 1914-15 Star (GSSR-914 Pte. J. Gill. R. Suss: R.); British War and Victory Medals (GSSR-914 Pte. J. Gill. R. Suss. R.) mounted as worn, good very fine (4) £800-£1,000 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 23 June 1915: ‘For conspicuous gallantry on the 27th January, 1915, at Cuinchy, when he volunteered to remain, for observation purposes, in a forward post, which was being heavily shelled. Later in the day he rescued a wounded man under heavy fire.’ James Gill served with the 2nd Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment in France from 19 January 1915. He was killed in action on 17 March 1915, and is buried in Brown’s Road Cemetery, Festubert.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Private R. A. Hanscombe, 1st Battalion, Royal West Kent Regiment Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (G-4263 Pte. R. A. Hanscombe, 1/R.W. Kent R.); 1914-15 Star (G-4263 Pte. R. A. Hanscombe. R.W. Kent. R.); British War and Victory Medals (GS-4263 Pte. R. A. Hanscombe. R.W. Kent R.) mounted as worn, the first with pitting from star, otherwise very fine and better (4) £800-£1,000 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 3 June 1919; citation published 11 March 1920: ‘For continuous gallant conduct, covering a long period of service in France. This soldier has on every occasion showed exceptional gallantry and a very high sense of duty and has taken part in many actions.’ Richard A. Hanscombe hailed from Beckenham, Kent, and served in France with the 1st Battalion, Royal West Kent Regiment, from 30 August 1915. Sold with copied gazette notice, D.C.M. and Medal Index Cards.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ D.C.M. group of five awarded to Sergeant T. N. Daly, 36th Battalion Machine Gun Corps, later 9th Armoured Car Company, Royal Tank Corps Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (5739 Sjt. T. N. Daly. 36/M.G.C.); British War and Victory Medals (5739 Sjt. T. N. Daly. M.G.C.); General Service 1918-62, 1 clasp, Iraq (7807151 Sjt. T. Daly. M.G.C.); India General Service 1908-35, 1 clasp, Waziristan 1921-24 (7807151 Sjt. T. Daly. R. Tank Corps.) mounted as worn, edge bruising and contact marks, otherwise nearly very fine (5) £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 3 June 1919; citation published 11 March 1920: ‘He has been acting as a section serjeant, and has commanded that section with singular ability. During the recent operations east of Ypres his very gallant conduct, especially on the crossing of the River Lys, was a fine example to all who came in contact with him. Over a wide period of months he has maintained a very high standard of conduct.’ Sold with copied gazette entries, D.C.M. and Medal Index Cards, the latter confirming both G.S.M. and I.G.S. and that he was serving with 9th Armoured Car Company in India.

‘One of nine children born to two impoverished alcoholics - all of whom were removed by the courts from their parent’s custody by the age of two - is hardly the start that would be attributed to a hero of the R.A.F., but that was how Victor started.’ (Zero To Hero, From a Boy’s Home to R.A.F. Hero, by P. W. Bodle refers) The outstanding and rare Second War C.G.M., ‘Immediate’ D.F.M. group of five awarded to Lancaster Rear Gunner V. A. Roe, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, who flew in 14 operational sorties in Wellingtons and Halifaxes with 466 Squadron, prior to flying the remainder of his operational service with 35 Squadron - which amounted to a remarkable 84 operational sorties with the Squadron, 50 of which were with Flying Officer John Forde as his pilot, and out of the total of 84, 11 were as Master Bomber crew and 7 as Deputy Master Bomber crew, all with Pathfinder Force. An accomplished ‘Tail-End Charlie’, Roe successfully fought off an Me. 110 during the raid on Haine-St-Pierre, 8-9 May 1944, ‘which made four successive attacks using cannon and machine-gun fire... Roe returned fire and on each occasion although his turret had been hit and become unserviceable, resulting in Sergeant Roe being covered with oil. When the Me. 110 made the fourth attack, it was seen to have caught fire in one engine and it is claimed as probably destroyed. Throughout the combat, Sergeant Roe handled his guns with cool determination, clearing stoppages in between attacks although he had received a slight injury in his right arm from a cannon splinter early in the encounter.’ Warrant Officer Roe was killed in action on a raid to Chemnitz, carrying out his 98th operational sortie, 5-6 March 1945. He was 21 years old Conspicuous Gallantry Medal (Flying), G.VI.R. (Act. W/O. (1813968) V. A. Roe. R.A.F.); Distinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. (1813968 Sgt. V. A. Roe. R.A.F.); 1939-45 Star, 1 clasp, Bomber Command; Air Crew Europe Star, 1 clasp, France and Germany; War Medal 1939-45, first two on investiture pins and in named card boxes of issue, remainder later issues, in Royal Mint boxes of issue, with enclosure, extremely fine (5) £30,000-£40,000 --- One of only 11 men to be awarded the combination of the C.G.M. and D.F.M. C.G.M. London Gazette 13 April 1945: ‘Since the award of the Distinguished Flying Medal, Warrant Officer Roe has participated in a further large number of operational sorties. He has proved himself to be a most enthusiastic and skilful air gunner and has continued to operate with undiminished determination and courage. By his magnificent record of achievement and unfailing devotion to duty, this gallant Warrant Officer has set a sterling example to all air gunners.’ D.F.M. London Gazette 13 June 1944: ‘On the night of 8/9th May, 1944, Sergeant Roe was rear gunner in a Lancaster detailed to attack Haine-St. Pierre. As the aircraft was approaching the target, two Ju. 88’s were encountered but successfully evaded. Shortly afterwards, and Me. 110 was encountered which made four successive attacks using cannon and machine-gun fire. Sergeant Roe returned fire and on each occasion although his turret had been hit and become unserviceable, resulting in Sergeant Roe being covered with oil. When the Me. 110 made the fourth attack, it was seen to have caught fire in one engine and it is claimed as probably destroyed. Throughout the combat, Sergeant Roe handled his guns with cool determination, clearing stoppages in between attacks although he had received a slight injury in his right arm from a cannon splinter early in the encounter. He carried on, showing a fine offensive spirit. Sergeant Roe is a very reliable Air Gunner who has always carried out his duties most conscientiously. At all times his courage, skill and determination are a fine inspiration to his crew. In recognition of his courage and devotion to duty during the combats of the night of 8/9th May, 1944, this N.C.O. is recommended for an immediate award of the Distinguished Flying Medals. Remarks by Station Commander: Recommended. This N.C.O. displayed courage and determination of a high order throughout the attacks.’ Victor Arthur Roe was born at Old Barge Yard, Norwich in May 1923. He was one of nine children, all removed from the custody of his parents, who were sadly alcoholics, and placed in various Children’s Homes around Norwich. Roe was educated at the Surrey Road Primary School and the Nelson Street Senior Boys’ School - and his father died whilst he was at primary school. Aged 11, Roe was transferred to Mr Fegan’s Home for Boys in Yardley Gobion, near Stony Stratford, Buckinghamshire. The latter institution had a rigid approach to preparing the boys for later life through discipline and hard work, which culminated in working at the Goudhurst Farm prior to ‘release’ into the wider world. Roe moved to work at the farm in April 1938, and having completed his time in Fegan system was subsequently employed at Copping Farm, part of the Bernstein Estate near Tonbridge in Kent. Roe enlisted in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve in January 1943, and was posted to No. 14 Initial Training Wing, Bridlington. He trained as an Air Gunner at No. 8 Bombing and Air Gunnery School, Evanton, and advanced to Leading Aircraftsman. Roe, having advanced to Sergeant, was subsequently posted to 20 O.T.U., Lossiemouth. Whilst at the latter he trained in Wellingtons and formed his first crew with Warrant Officer J. Forde (Pilot), Warrant Officer H. Warner (Bomb Aimer), Warrant Officer J. Rollins (Navigator) and Sergeant D. Carruthers (Radio Operator). They were posted for operational service to 466 Squadron (Wellingtons) at Driffield in August 1943. They carried out 7 operational sorties, 5 of which were Mining, before being posted to 1652 CU to convert to Halifax bombers. Here they were joined by Sergeants D. Cole (Flight Engineer) and W. Quirke (Mid Upper Gunner), and upon return to their Squadron they carried out another 7 operational sorties, including: Frankfurt; Berlin; Magdeburg; Schweinfurt; Trappes and Le Mans. As Peter Bodle notes in Zero To Hero, From a Boys’ Home to R.A.F. Hero: ‘This time the seven operations more or less spanned the Christmas and New Year period of 1943-44. Their first Halifax sortie was on 20 December... On the third sortie, ‘The Big City’, Berlin was the target, but it was not until the raid following the Berlin run that Victor mentioned anything about enemy action. In that post raid report it was noted that their plane HX266 had collected some flak damaged from what was believed to be radar controlled ack-ack guns in the Wilhelmshaven area. Fortunately according to this report after the raid, it produced only a slight amount of damage to the aircraft and none to the crew. The other high point Victor noted from his time on the Halifax occurred just three days later, landing out at Tangmere, as their Halifax LV837 ran low on fuel and their pilot John Forde made a precautionary diversion into the Kent fighter airfield to take on more. In all the Halifax raids, they were led to the target area by the Lancasters of the Pathfinder Force, whom they were to join in just a few weeks’ time. This way, like many others before them, Victor and the rest of the John Forde team had been given a good insight into what was needed to be a Pathfinder crew, long before they ever started their PFF training.’ The PFF - Lancaster ‘Tail-End Charlie’ Roe was posted to Warboys for PFF training, prior to being posted for operational flying with 35 Squadron (Lancasters) in April 1944: ‘So just six months after stepping into a Bomber for ...

A Great War ‘Gallipoli’ I.D.S.M. awarded to Sepoy Likal Singh, 14th King George’s Own Ferozepore Sikhs, who was also mentioned in despatches Indian Distinguished Service Medal, G.V.R., 1st issue (4019 Sepoy Likal Singh 14th K.G.O. Sikhs) suspension tightened at claw, otherwise nearly very fine £300-£400 --- I.D.S.M. GGO 736 of 1916. M.I.D. GGO 939 of 1916.

A Second War ‘Burma operations’ I.D.S.M. group of five awarded to Lance-Naik Ali Asfar, Indian Army Medical Corps Indian Distinguished Service Medal, G.V.R., 1st issue (78537 L-Nk. Ali Asfar, I.A.M.C.); 1939-45 Star; Burma Star; War Medal 1939-45; India Service Medal, these last four all privately named, mounted as worn, good very fine £500-£700 --- I.D.S.M. London Gazette 18 May 1944: ‘For gallant and distinguished service in Burma.’ One of only 10 awards to the Indian Army Medical Corps in the Second World War.

‘Greater daring than that of the Shaitan can hardly be imagined... a very little resolution of the enemy’s side would have disposed [of her crew of nine] easily at point blank range’ (Official History of the Great War refers) A rare ‘River Tigris Operations’ Great War D.S.M. group of four awarded to Petty Officer W. H. Rowe, Royal Navy, Gunlayer of H.M. Armed Launch Shaitan, whose crew of 9, armed with a single 12-pounder, in a display of cool audacity at the expenditure of only 2 or 3 shells, captured over 250 Turkish Troops and contributed largely to the evacuation of Amara Distinguished Service Medal, G.V.R. (152932. W. H. Rowe. Lg. Sean. H.M.S. Shaitan.) minor official correction to rate; 1914-15 Star (152932. W. H. Rowe. P.O., R.N.); British War and Victory Medals (152932 W. H. Rowe. P.O. R.N.) nearly extremely fine, rare (4) £3,000-£4,000 --- D.S.M. London Gazette 13 September 1915. The original Recommendation states: ‘Shaitan, Amara, 3 June 1915. Gunlayer of Shaitan’s 12 pdr gun, an excellent shot, cool and steady. I recommend him from early advancement.’ Rowe was awarded his D.S.M. for his role in pursuit of the enemy gunboat Marmariss and the capture of Amara by H.M. Armed Launch Shaitan. For their daring exploit and resolution, Shaitan’s Commanding Officer, Lieutenant M. Singleton, was awarded the D.S.O., and two of the crew (Coxswain A. J. Roberts and Gunlayer W. H. Rowe) were awarded the D.S.M. Singleton’s D.S.O. citation, which appeared in the same London Gazette, is as follows: ‘For his services during the advance from Qurnah and capture of Amara at the beginning of June 1915. Lieutenant Singleton was in command of the armed launch Shaitan, and displayed great skill and energy in pursuit of the enemy gunboat Marmariss and other craft. He went ahead of the main force through Amara in a gallant manner, and performed the remarkable feat in his small armed tug of bringing to surrender a body of about 11 officers and 250 Turkish troops, whom he had intercepted, and causing a large number to retire, thus largely contributing to the surrender of the town.’ William Henry Rowe was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, on 16 September 1874 and joined the Royal Navy as a Boy Second Class on 17 March 1890. He was advanced Leading Seaman on 1 December 1910 and served during the Great War in H.M. Armed Launch Shaitan from 1 August 1915, whilst borne on the books of H.M.S. Clio and H.M.S. Alert. He transferred to H.M.S. Dragonfly, with the rate of Petty Officer, on 11 December 1915, and served in her until 7 January 1918. He was shore demobilised on 5 December 1919, and subsequently joined the Royal Fleet Reserve. H.M. Armed Launch Shaitan on the River Tigris By May 1915 the Turks had been driven from the lower reaches of the Tigris, and in order that the Navy might render assistance to the Army in following them up, a number of flat bottomed tug boats were commandeered and commissioned as H.M. Ships for use on the river. One of these, the Shaitan, in reality little more than a harbour tug with a single piece of artillery, was placed under Singleton’s command. Crewed by eight men, his boat was armed with a 12-pounder quick-firing gun in her bows and a smaller gun aft. Advancing from Qurnah in June, the Shaitan, due to Singleton’s skilful boat handling, got ahead of the other small craft, and reached a point three miles south of Amara on her own. As she entered the reach of the river immediately below the town, which was situated on the east bank, large numbers of enemy troops were seen crossing the river to the western bank by a bridge of boats and getting into a barge secured to the Turkish gun boat Marmarris. The bridge of boats was then opened, the enemy gun boat clearly going to depart up river. Singleton immediately opened fire with the 12-pounder, causing the troops to abandon the barge for a safer spot on the west bank. Shaitan then steamed on and as she passed through the bridge of boats found the town was occupied in force. Half a battalion of Turks, moving through the streets to the river front, smartly retreated. Around the next bend on both banks yet more troops were retiring from the Shaitan which was in effect surrounded. The Turks held their fire for fear of drawing the attention of Shaitan’s 12-pounder, and she continued upstream for about half a mile, whence Singleton called on a party of about two hundred Turks with six officers to surrender. The Bluejacket’s disarmed them and, taking their weapons on board, compelled them to march down river abreast of the tug. On the way back to Amara, Singleton took more prisoners, who emerged from trees and threw down their arms; and, unattended, the sorry Turkish party obediently walked to the now deserted town where they sat down by a coffee shop and awaited the arrival of British troops. Thus the Shaitan, at the expenditure of only two or three shells, captured 250 Turkish troops and 11 officers and contributed largely to the evacuation of Amara by 2,000 troops. As the Official History of the Great War rightly stated, ‘Greater daring than that of the Shaitan can hardly be imagined... a very little resolution of the enemy’s side would have disposed [of her crew of nine] easily at point blank range.’ Sold with copied record of service and other research.

A Great War ‘Zeebrugge Raid’ April 1918 D.S.M. group of six awarded to Chief Petty Officer George Cann, Royal Navy, for services in H.M.S. Iphigenia which was used as a blockship at the entrance to the Bruges Canal Distinguished Service Medal, G.V.R. (174002 G. Cann, A.C.P.O. “Iphigenia” Zeebrugge-Ostend. 22-23, April 1918.); 1914-15 Star (174002, G. Cann, P.O. R.N.); British War and Victory Medals (174002 G. Cann C.P.O. R.N.); Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., E.VII.R. (174002 George Cann, P.O. 1Cl., H.M.S. Minerva.); Italy, Kingdom, Messina Earthquake Medal 1908, silver, unnamed as issued, mounted as worn, good very fine (6) £2,200-£2,600 --- D.S.M. London Gazette 14 September 1918: ‘The following further award in addition to those announced in the London Gazette of the 23rd July 1918 has been approved for services in the operations against Zeebrugge on the night of 22nd-23rd April 1918. Act. C.P.O. George Cann, ON 174002 (Ch.).’ The recommendation states: ‘H.M.S. Iphigenia Zeebrugge-Ostend 22-23 April 1918. For good services in blockships on the night of 22-23 April 1918. From H.M.S. Pembroke.’ George Cann was born at Lacfield, Suffolk, on 6 May 1877, and joined the Royal Navy as a Boy 2nd Class in H.M.S. Impregnable on 27 June 1893. Advancing steadily through the rates he achieved Petty Officer 2nd Class status in August 1902, and was promoted to Petty Officer 1st Class in June 1908. He served aboard H.M.S. Minerva from September 1908 to October 1910, and is confirmed on the roll of H.M.S. Minerva as having landed ashore at Messina to participate in the rescue operations there after the earthquake of 1908. He also received his L.S. & G.C. medal in this ship in May 1910. He served aboard H.M.S. Diamond from November 1913 until November 1917 when he joined Pembroke I, shore base at Chatham, from where he was drafted or, more likely, volunteered for service in Iphigenia on the Zeebrugge Raid. He served in Blenheim from August 1918 to February 1919, when he rejoined Pembroke I and was discharged to shore for demobilisation on 22 April 1919.

A Great War ‘Submarine service’ D.S.M. awarded to Able Seaman H. J. McCreedy, Royal Navy, who served in H.M. Submarines F3 and H24 in 1918 Distinguished Service Medal, G.V.R. (238018 H. J. Mc Creedy, A.B. H.M. Submarines. 1918.) contact wear and pitting, otherwise good fine and better £700-£900 --- D.S.M. London Gazette 29 October 1918: ‘For services in submarines.’ The recommendation states: ‘Served in H.M. Submarine F3 from 6 February 1918 and in H.M. Submarine H24 26 April 1918 to 23 April 1919.’ Herbert John McCreedy was born at Battle, Sussex, on 22 August 1891, and was a Greenwich School Boy when he joined the Royal Navy as a Boy 2nd Class in H.M.S. Ganges on 10 January 1907. He was rated Able Seaman from June 1910 and during the war served aboard H.M. Ships Cormorant, Blenheim, Adamant, Egmont and Queen, before joining the submarine service in about January 1916. He was pensioned as a Petty Officer on 21 August 1931.

A Great War ‘Auxiliary Patrol’ D.S.M. awarded to Deck Hand J. C. Rising, Royal Naval Reserve, for services aboard H.M. Trawler Sweeper 1915-16 Distinguished Service Medal, G.V.R. (D.A.2897. J. C. Rising, Dk. Hd. R.N.R. Sweeper. Aux Patrol. 1915-6.) good very fine £500-£700 --- D.S.M. London Gazette 14 July 1916: ‘For distinguished services while engaged in mine sweeping in Home waters. Deckhand James Charles Rising, R.N.R., O.N. DA.2897.’ The recommendation states: ‘H.M.T. Sweeper, Auxiliary Patrol 1915-6. Service in the Auxiliary Patrol during the period 1 January 1915 to 31 January 1916. Carried out duties under extremely arduous and hazardous conditions of weather and exposure to enemy attack and mines with marked zeal, gallantry and success.’

A Great War D.S.M. group of four awarded to Chief Engine Room Artificer R. J. Beardshaw, Royal Naval Reserve, probably for his services in the light cruiser action on 5 June 1917, when the German destroyer S20 was sunk Distinguished Service Medal, G.V.R. (E.A.1100 R. J. Beardshaw, C.E.R.A. R.N.R. H.M.S. Centaur. 1916-7.); 1914-15 Star (E.A. 1100. R. J. Beardshaw. E.R.A. R.N.R.); British War and Victory Medals (1100E.A. R. J. Beardshaw. C.E.R.A. R.N.R.) mounted as worn, good very fine (4) £800-£1,000 --- D.S.M. London Gazette 11 August 1917: ‘The following awards have been approved.’ The recommendation states: ‘H.M.S. Centaur 5th Light Cruiser Squadron, Harwich Force 1916-7.’ On 5 June 1917, the light cruisers Canterbury, Centaur and Conquest sank the German destroyer S20 in the North Sea near the Shouwen Bank, off Zeebrugge, Belgium. This award is probably related to this action.

A Great War ‘Mediterranean minesweeping operations’ D.S.M. awarded to Trimmer James Thompson, Royal Naval Reserve, for services aboard H.M. Trawler Triton in 1918 Distinguished Service Medal, G.V.R. (T.S.7373. J. Thompson. Trim. R.N.R. “Triton” Mediterranean 1918.) nearly extremely fine £500-£700 --- D.S.M. London Gazette 17 October 1919: ‘For services in minesweeping operations between 1 July and 31 December 1918. James Thompson, Trimmer, R.N.R. (Trawler Section) 7373TS.’

Later in "Hesperus" I had the incomparable Petty-Officer Coster, who could be relied on to hear the first faint echo from a submarine at the maximum range of the asdic. Teamed up with Bill Ridley, my First-Lieutenant and anti-submarine specialist officer, they were a deadly combination for any U-boat that came within "Hesperus" range. U-Boat Killer by Captain Donald Macintyre refers. The unique Second War ‘Battle of the Atlantic’ D.S.M. and Bar, M.I.D. group of five awarded to Acting Petty Officer J. P. Coster, Royal Navy, for services as senior Asdic operator (H.S.D.) aboard the destroyer H.M.S. Hesperus under Commander Donald Macintyre, D.S.O.**, D.S.C., one of the most successful wartime C.O.’s of convoy escorts in the Battle of the Atlantic and author of ‘U-Boat Killer’ amongst many others Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (JX.148640 J. P. Coster. A/L. Smn.) impressed naming, with Second Award Bar, the reverse privately dated ‘1943’; 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star, 1 clasp, France and Germany; Pacific Star; War Medal 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf, the last four all privately impressed ‘JX.148640 J. P. Coster. D.S.M. & Bar. A/L. Smn. R.N. “H.M.S. Hesperus”, mounted as worn, nearly extremely fine (5) £4,000-£5,000 --- D.S.M. London Gazette 9 March 1943: ‘For skill and determination in action against enemy submarines while serving in H.M. Ships Hesperus and Vanessa. - Temporary Acting Leading Seaman James Philip Coster. Seedies Roll confirms award for the destruction of U-357 in the north-western approaches on 26 December 1942. Commander Macintyre was awarded a Bar to his earlier D.S.O. for this action. U-357 was forced to the surface by depth charges and then rammed and sunk by Hesperus. D.S.M. Second Award Bar London Gazette 11 January 1944: ‘For courage and great skill in successful attacks on U-boats while serving in H.M.S. Hesperus. - Temporary Acting Petty Officer James Philip Coster, D.S.M. (Newbury, Berkshire).’ Two recommendations exist in Admiralty files for this award and it appears that the two were rolled up together into the Second Award Bar. The first, submitted on 20 May 1943, states: ‘Leading Seaman (Higher Submarine Detector - H.S.D.) James Philip Coster. D.S.M. awarded 9 March 1943. On Friday, 23rd April, 1943, when H.M.S. Hesperus was escorting Convoy O.N.S. 4, an enemy submarine was sighted and seen tio dive. This U-boat was soon afterwards picked up on the Asdics and a hunt ensued, at the end of which a hit with the Hedgehog was obtained and the U-boat sunk. Leading Seaman Coster was the asdic operator and his accurate and skilful operation of the set enabled contact with the submarine to be held throughout the hunt and accurate attacks to [be] delivered which resulted in the destruction of the U-boat.’ The second recommendation was submitted just 3 days later, on 23 May 1943, and states: ‘A/Petty Officer (Ty) James Philip Coster. D.S.M. awarded 9 March 1943. Previously recommended on 30 December 1942 and 20 May 1943. On the night of 11th/12th May, and again on 12th May, 1943 H.M.S. Hesperus detected and attacked U-boats. In the first case, the U-boat was depth-charged and forced to the surface after several attacks. It was then attacked by gunfire and left sinking. In the second case, the U-boat was detected by Asdics and, after three depth-charge attacks, was heard to explode, wreckage coming to the surface to confirm the sinking. Petty Officer Coster was the A/S operator throughout both these actions and his cool and skilful operation of the A/S set enabled the accurate attacks to be delivered which resulted in the destruction of the U-boats.’ Seedies Roll confirms award for successful attacks on U-boats in May 1943, with one sunk and two destroyed. U-186 was confirmed sunk north of the Azores by depth charges from Hesperus. M.I.D. London Gazette 23 November 1943: ‘For gallant and distinguished services in successful attacks on U-boats while serving in H.M. Ships... Hesperus.’ Seedies Roll confirms award for the probable destruction of a U-boat in the western approaches on 4 April 1943. James Philip Coster was a native of Newbury, Berkshire. He was the only recipient of the D.S.M. and Bar in Hesperus and the only crew member to receive three awards in this ship. Captain Donald Macintyre gives a succinct description of the asdic and depth charge attack procedure employed against U-boats in the early days of the battle of the Atlantic in his book, U-Boat Killer: ‘Once it was decided to attack, the procedure was to point one’s ship at the target and close it at a moderate speed. By the time the range was down to about 1,000 yards, sufficient data would have reached the plot to give a course and speed of the target. Course would then be altered so as to ‘collide’ with the submarine, and as the ship passed over it, or rather passed a little way ahead to allow for the time taken by depth-charges to sink, a pattern of depth charges would be fired. Those from the chutes in the stern would be dropped at evenly-spaced intervals in the wake, while the depth-charge throwers would send others out some fifty yards on either side. Thus the pattern properly laid would form a shape like an elongated diamond, somewhere inside of which, one hoped, would be the target. But to produce lethal damage the charges must explode near the U-boat in depth as well as in plan and as the depth of the submarine was largely a matter of guesswork the charges were fired at varying depths to increase the chance of success. Such in brief outline was the asdic and the depth charge attack as we knew them in the early days of the Atlantic battle. Of course, there were very many refinements of method and calculation. The effect of wind and weather on one’s ship and consequently on the best direction from which to attack, the need to avoid presenting oneself as an easy target for a torpedo attack in retaliation, the ruses tried out to prevent the U-boat commander from knowing when one was making the final dash to drop depth charges - all were of vital importance to the U-boat hunter. I was wonderfully lucky in the ‘Ping’ specialists who served with me in the two ships wgich I commanded for long periods of the war. In Walker the senior asdic rating, Backhouse, had the quiet confidence of the man who knows his job through and through. At the climax of a long night of confused fighting and mêlée, he was quite unperturbed and was able to classify the sounds in his headphones with the detachment acquired through long and wearisome practise. Later in Hesperus I had the incomparable Petty-Officer Coster, who could be relied on to hear the first faint echo from a submarine at the maximum range of the asdic. Teamed up with Bill Ridley, my First-Lieutenant and anti-submarine specialist officer, they were a deadly combination for any U-boat that came within Hesperus range.’ Sold with 6pp copied reports and recommendations.

A Second War ‘Coastal Forces, 1942 Birthday Honours’ D.S.M. group of seven awarded to Leading Stoker F. T. Newport, Royal Navy, for services aboard M.G.B. 89, who was subsequently mentioned in despatches for operation ‘Harpoon’ Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (KX.86343 F. T. Newport. L. Sto.); 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, the campaign stars and medals all privately impressed ‘KX.86343 F. T. Newport. D.S.M. L. Sto.’, mounted as worn, nearly extremely fine (7) £600-£800 --- D.S.M. London Gazette 11 June 1942: Birthday Honours List. Seedies Roll confirms award for service in M.G.B. 89, the only D.S.M. awarded to this Gun Boat. Two earlier M.I,.D.s had been awarded for an action with E-Boats in the Nore area on 28 November 1941. M.I.D. London Gazette 22 September 1942. Seedies Roll confirms award for service as Acting Stoker Petty Officer aboard the destroyer H.M.S. Ithuriel in operation ‘Harpoon’, the eastbound convoy from Gibraltar in an attempt to resupply the Island of Malta in June 1942.

‘With reference to my recommendations for recognition of officers and men of TRIBUNE in respect of the sinking of a U-boat I would like to stress that this achievement was outstanding observing that this is the first occasion on which an attack has been successfully carried out solely by means of Asdic by a submerged submarine against an enemy submerged submarine which was at no time sighted during the attack.’ (Vice-Admiral Submarines Sir Max Horton to Naval Secretary to First Lord of Admiralty, 18 October 1940) A Second War submariner’s D.S.M. group of five awarded to Petty Officer (Torpedo Gunner’s Mate) G. W. Butler, Royal Navy, for good services in H.M. Submarine Tribune during patrols in 1940, but more specifically on the occasion of her attack on U-56 in September 1940 when it was believed to have been sunk Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (J.110779 G. W. Butler. P.O. R.N.) impressed naming; 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star, 1 clasp, France and Germany; War Medal 1939-45, these three all privately named ‘J.110779 P.O. George W. Butler D.S.M. R.N. H.M. Submarine’; Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., G.VI.R., 1st issue (J.110779 G. W. Butler. P.O. H.M.S. Forth.) mounted as worn, the last with an edge bruise, otherwise good very fine (5) £1,000-£1,400 --- D.S.M. London Gazette 12 November 1940: ‘For good service in recent patrols. - Petty Officer George William Butler.’ The recommendation states: ‘George William Butler, Petty Officer T.G.M. P/J.110779. For promptness in bringing the torpedo armament to the ready and speed in carrying out the many changes of orders for the torpedoes necessitated by the nature of the attack.’ One of 4 D.S.M.’s awarded to Tribune on this occasion. The commanding officer Lieutenant E. F. Balston received the D.S.O., and Lieutenant J. C. Ogle the D.S.C., six ratings also being mentioned in despatches. In his patrol report Lieutenant Balston describes the attack against a submerged U-boat on 6 September 1940, and is convinced of a successful ‘kill’: ‘0633 There was some evidence from adsics that we had been fired at, possibly three torpedoes, but these were never heard to detonate. Very loud water noises were heard close ahead in three distinct waves. The operator described these as ”rushes of water similar to that heard on firing torpedoes”. (In this connection I think the target, although knowing we were close, had no very exact idea of our whereabouts. This might account for him being as shallow as he was when we fired.) During this time TRIBUNE was stopped deep. 0637 Came up to 60ft, target right ahead range 1000yds. I was still trying to predict the movement of the target acrioss my bow and at 0638, range 700yds closing, this was 2º a minute from port to starboard. 0640 Fired two torpedoes at 4 second interval set to 44ft and 38ft, depth of submarine 70ft, using centre of asdic target as point of aim. Twenty five seconds after first torpedo there was a violent explosion and all H.E. immediately ceased. The second torpedo detonated eight minutes later having run off its range. Came to periscope depth after first explosion, nothing in sight. 0655 Surfaced to look for evidence. A considerable quantity of oil was visible on the surface and a sock and a glove and what may have been a coat were seen, but could not be found again after turning and it is doubtful if these could have been recovered as it was too rough to put a man over the side. 0715 Dived and carried out asdic search but nothing could be located. 0813 Surfaced to carry out further search. Oil on the surface was more widespread, long streaks tailing to leeward, and a patch of heavy brown sludge about six feet in diameter was seen to come to the surface close to the bow. The Engineer Officer stated this was what might be expected from the bottom of a fuel tank. I also saw a seagull soaked with oil trying to take off from the sea but obviously unable to do so. 0905 Abandoned search and proceeded. Weather: Wind force 5 to 6 from west. Sea rough.’ In forwarding his recommendations for awards, Vice-Admiral Sir Max Horton emphasised to the Naval Secretary to First Lord of Admiralty, Rear-Admiral E.N. Syfret, ‘I have no doubt that the U-boat was sunk.’ However, it later transpired that according to German records the only U-boat operating in that area had been the U-56, but she reported no attack and survived until April 1945, when she was scuttled at Kiel after being damaged by U.S. bombs. It is now an accepted fact that Tribune did not sink a U-boat on this occasion and her early history should read as below. H.M. Submarine Tribune was launched in December 1938 and completed in October 1939. Her first active service patrols took her to Norwegian waters where, on 6 January 1940, she fired 6 torpedoes against an enemy submarine in the Skagerrak, about 15 nautical miles east-north-east of Skagen, Denmark, but without success. On 22 June 1940, she made another torpedo attack on an enemy merchant vessel off Standlandet, Norway, but all torpedoes missed. On 6 September 1940, she attacked the German U-56 about 15 nautical miles north-east of St Kilda, Hebrides, but the two torpedoes fired both missed their target. Sold with copied recommendations and patrol report.

A most unusual Second War submariner’s D.S.M. group of eight awarded to Acting Stoker Petty Officer E. J. James, Royal Navy, for services in H.M. Submarine Graph, formerly the U-570 captured in August 1941 and, taken into service by the R.N., carried out three combat patrols becoming the only U-boat to see active service with both sides during the war Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (KX.85507 E. J. James. A/Sto. P.O. R.N.) impressed naming; 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Africa Star; Pacific Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, the Second War campaign stars and medals all privately named; Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., G.VI.R., 2nd issue (KX.85507 E. J. James. D.S.M. P.O.S.M. H.M.S. Tabard.) official correction to ship on this last, mounted as worn, good very fine (8) £1,000-£1,400 --- D.S.M. London Gazette 5 January 1943: ‘For great courage, skill and determination in a successful submarine patrol. - Acting Stoker Petty Officer Edwin John James.’ Seedies Roll confirms award for a ‘successful attack on a U-boat on 21 October 1942.’ The remarkable story of the capture of the U-570 and subsequent service in the Royal Navy as H.M. Submarine Graph is told in detail online in Wikipedia from which some of the following has been extracted: Graph departed from Holy Loch for her first Royal Navy war patrol on 8 October 1942, with the intention of patrolling the Bay of Biscay. On the afternoon of 21 October 1942, about 50 nautical miles north-north-east of Cape Ortegal, Graph dived to evade a German Fw 200 long-range patrol aircraft. A loud hydrophone contact made Lieutenant Marriott believe a nearby submarine had likewise dived and, 12 minutes later, he observed its conning-tower against the setting sun. After pursuing the German boat, Graph fired four torpedoes. Explosions were heard, and also banging noises, leading the British to believe they had hit the other submarine and the banging noises were caused by her breaking up as she sank. In early 1943, Marriott was awarded the Distinguished Service Order for “great courage, skill and determination in a successful submarine patrol” - Lieutenant Swanston gained a Bar to his D.S.C. and six D.S.M.’s went to other members of her crew. After the war, examination of German records showed the submarine attacked was the U-333, badly damaged after being rammed by the Flower-class corvette H.M.S. Crocus off the coast of West Africa. German lookouts had seen the torpedoes’ tracks, enabling U-333 to evade them. The torpedoes then self-detonated for unknown reasons. The commander of U-333 was Peter-Erich Cremer who, in his post-war account of the attack, suggested the rattling and banging noises Graph’s crew had heard were due to the severe damage previously inflicted on U-333. His route back to France closely hugged the Spanish coastline, a pattern followed by other U-boats, and he had also believed that Marriott was aware of this and had been lying in wait. Graph completed two further war patrols but defects, exacerbated by a shortage of spare parts, led to her being placed in reserve and decommissioned from active service on 21 June 1943.

Five: Master at Arms W. N. Woodbridge, Benbow Battalion, Royal Naval Division, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, a veteran of Antwerp and Gallipoli, who was later commissioned Lieutenant and served at RND Headquarters, Crystal Palace 1914 Star, with clasp (L.1067. W. Woodbridge, P.O. R.N.V.R. Benbow Bttn. R.N.D.); British War and Victory Medals (Lieut. W. N. Woobridge. R.N.V.R.); Defence Medal; Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue (1067 W. N. Woodbridge, C.P.O. London Divn. R.N.V.R.) mounted for display, last officially renamed, generally very fine (5) £300-£400 --- William Norman Woodbridge was born in February 1886. He joined the London Division of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve in March 1911, and at the time was a Bank Clerk who resided in Penge, Kent. Woodbridge advanced to Petty Officer, and was posted to the Benbow Battalion, Royal Naval Division in August 1914. He served with the Battalion during the defence of the Antwerp, and was one of the few men of Benbow who managed to avoid capture or internment. Woodbridge returned to the UK, advanced to Chief Petty Officer, and was then posted for service in Gallipoli. He advanced to Master at Arms in May 1916, and was selected for officer training in June 1917. Woodbridge was commissioned Temporary Sub Lieutenant, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve in June 1918. He served at RND Headquarters, Crystal Palace until he was demobilised in February 1919. Woodbridge re-engaged for service as a Lieutenant (Sp), R.N.V.R. during the Second World War, and was released from naval service in 1948 (having served as an officer in the Sea Cadet Corps). Sold with copied research.

An outstanding Second War Submariner’s Immediate D.S.M. and M.I.D. group of seven awarded to Petty Officer J. F. McIntyre, Royal Navy, for services as Torpedo Gunner’s Mate of H.M. Submarine Safari (formerly P211) on Mediterranean War Patrols; he was mentioned in October 1942 after her 4th patrol when 9 enemy ships were sunk, and awarded the D.S.M. after a further 6 patrols during which he ‘fired fifty one torpedoes, twenty five of which are believed to have hit the enemy’ Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (JX.134955 J. F. Mcintyre. P.O.); 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Africa Star, 1 clasp, North Africa 1942-43; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45, the campaign stars and medal all with privately impressed naming; Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., G.VI.R., 1st issue (JX.134955 J. F. Mcintyre. Ch Elec. H.M.S. Adamant.) small official correction to surname on the last, mounted for wearing, good very fine (7) £1,200-£1,600 --- D.S.M. London Gazette 6 July 1943:’For great daring, enterprise and skill in successful patrols in one of H.M. submarines.’ The original recommendation for an Immediate award states: ‘Petty Officer T.G.M. John Figg McIntyre, JX.134955, H.M. S/M Safari. During six patrols since he was mentioned in despatches H.M. Submarine SAFARI has carried out ten torpedo attacks and fought fifteen gun actions during which she has sunk or wrecked nine steamships and eleven schooners, minesweepers and small craft. She has also damaged one steamer by torpedo hit and scored shell hits on two heavily armed German T.L.C. She has also carried out an important special operation. All the above operations, save one, have been carried out close, usually within two miles of the enemy coast and have involved frequent contact with enemy A/S craft, depth charging, bombing and fire from ship and shore guns. As Torpedo Gunner’s Mate of the Submarine has fired fifty one torpedoes, twenty five of which are believed to have hit the enemy. He has shown outstanding coolness in action and when subjected to depth charging, whilst his unflagging zeal in the execution of his torpedo duties has largely contributed to the success of the submarine.’ The above recommendation was submitted to the Commander-in-Chief, Mediterranean Station, alongside a recommendation for the Victoria Cross to Commander B. Bryant, D.S.O., D.S.C., R.N., from which these short extracts are taken: ‘In the course of ten Mediterranean patrols Commander Bryant has fought 22 gun actions and carried out 15 attacks, sinking 15 merchant ships and 15 schooners, minesweepers and small craft. He has also damaged 1 supply ship by torpedo, driven one supply ship ashore, damaged by gunfire, and scored hits on two heavily armed German T.L.C.’s... Commander Bryant is now the doyen of British submarine Commanding Officers, having served as such throughout the war; he has penetrated into the KATTEGAT as far as the Sound and Belts during the Norwegian campaign (further than any other submarine) and throughout the war has shown unflinching daring, sill and devotion to duty... I think the highest recommend that I can put forward for Commander Bryant is the universal opinion of his brother captains that he, by his actions, has earned the Victoria Cross on more than one occasion.’ This was all to no avail, however, as Bryant was duly gazetted with his 3rd D.S.O. M.I.D. London Gazette 23 March 1943. Seedies Roll confirms award for services in H.M. Submarine P211 (afterwards H.M.S/M. Safari) for ‘sinking 9 enemy ships in the Mediterranean from July to October 1942.’ Sold with copied recommendations and copies of the 8th, 9th and 10th Mediterranean Patrol Reports for H.M. Submarine Safari.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. group of four awarded to Corporal F. A. Barnes, Royal Canadian Dragoons, late Royal Sussex Regiment Military Medal, G.V.R. (226520 Cpl. F. A. Barnes, R. Can. Dgns.); 1914 Star (9350 Cpl. F. A. Budd, R. Suss. R.) later issue; British War and Victory Medals (226520 Sjt. F. A. Barnes, R.C.D.) note different names, nearly extremely fine (4) £800-£1,000 --- M.M. London Gazette 2 April 1918. Frank Arthur Barnes was born in Brighton, Sussex on 29 April 1893. He enlisted into the Royal Sussex Regiment under the name of ‘Budd’ and serving with the 2nd Battalion he entered the France/Flanders theatre of war on 12 August 1914. He is next recorded as having attested for the Canadian Forces at Kingston, on 28 October 1915. His papers state he was then employed as a Labourer, living in Bellville, Ontario, with no reference made to this earlier service. Serving with the Royal Canadian Dragoons, he earned the Military Medal in France (no citation). Barnes served with the R.N.W.M.P. after the war. Sold with copied Canadian attestation paper and m.i.c. (2) under the name of ‘Barnes’ and ‘Budd’ - these are cross-referenced. That to ‘Budd’ states that the 1914 Star was returned to the medal office re. K.R. 1743 (medal unclaimed). At a later unspecified date the 1914 Star with clasp and rosette were issued to the recipient.

A Great War 1917 ‘Ypres’ M.M. group of three awarded to Corporal S. B. Wareham, 21st Howitzer Battery, Canadian Field Artillery, who was killed in action serving with the 16th Artillery Brigade, C.F.A., during operations in North Russia, November 1918 Military Medal, G.V.R. (42763 Cpl. S. B. Wareham. 21/Howz: By: Can: F.A.); 1914-15 Star (42763 Gnr: S. B. Wareham. Can: Fd: Art:); Victory Medal 1914-19 (42763 Cpl. S. B. Wareham. C.F.A.) generally good very fine (3) £300-£400 --- M.M. London Gazette 28 January 1918, the original recommendation states: ‘For continuous devotion to duty and splendid work of this N.C.O. since the 21st Howitzer Battery came into action in the Ypres Area on the 16th Oct. to the 19th Oct. 1917. He personally is responsible that his batty. has been kept in touch with other Units. Cpl. Wareham has shown absolute fearlessness under intense shell fire of all calibres; has mended lines, and maintained communications for his unit when to do so appeared to be an utter impossibility. This N.C.O. by his bravery and wonderful devotion to duty has in no small manner helped to maintain the high morale of the signallers of the 21st Howitzer Battery during the intense bombardment.’ Stanley Belben Wareham was born in South Norwood, Surrey in November 1880. He served during the Great War with the 21st Howitzer Battery, Canadian Field Artillery on the Western Front (wounded in action 26 October 1917). Wareham advanced to Corporal, and transferred to the 16th Artillery Brigade, Canadian Field Artillery with whom he embarked for Archangel in September 1918. Wareham arrived at Archangel, 1 October 1918, and was killed in action during operations in North Russia on either 11 or 14 November 1918 (Service papers give both dates, CWGC and other sources list 11 November 1918). Corporal Wareham is commemorated on the Archangel Memorial. Sold with copied service papers.

A Great War 1918 ‘Western Front’ M.M. group of three awarded to 2nd Corporal P. C. McWha, 1st Divisional Signals Company, Canadian Engineers Military Medal, G.V.R. (931631 2. Cpl. P. C. McWha. Can. E.); British War and Victory Medals (931831 Cpl. P. C. McWha. 54-Can. Inf.) very fine (3) £280-£340 --- M.M. London Gazette 9 November 1918. Percy Charles McWha was born in St. Stephen, New Brunswick, Canada in October 1885. He was an Electrician by trade, and initially served with the 72nd Battalion (The Seaforth Highlanders of Canada), transferring to the 54th Battalion (Kootenay), before advancing to 2nd Corporal and serving with the 1st Divisional Signals Company, Canadian Engineers on the Western Front. McWha died at White Rock, British Columbia in August 1954.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. pair awarded to Sergeant W. Russ, 15th Battalion (48th Highlanders of Canada), Canadian Infantry, who was taken prisoner of war, 24 April 1915 Military Medal, G.V.R. (27146 Sjt W. Russ. 15/Can: Inf:) lacquered, with replacement suspension; British War Medal 1914-20 (27146 Sjt. W. Russ. 15-Can. Inf.) generally very fine (2) (2) £180-£220 --- M.M. London Gazette 30 January 1920. William Russ was born in Hastings, Sussex in January 1885. He served 12 years in the Royal Navy prior to serving with the 15th Battalion (48th Highlanders of Canada), Canadian Infantry during the Great War. Russ advanced to Sergeant and was taken prisoner of war during Second Ypres operations 24 April 1915, and was interned at Cassell. He was later transferred to Hamelin and interned in Holland 23 March 1918. Russ returned to England, 11 November 1918, and to Canada 22 February 1919. He was discharged ‘Medically Unfit’ 5 July 1919 and awarded the Military Medal 27 January 1920 (POW Gazette). Russ died in April 1968.

A Great War 1918 ‘Western Front’ M.M. group of three awarded to Private A. G. Warnes, 28th Battalion (Northwest), Canadian Infantry Military Medal, G.V.R. (907516 Pte A. G. Warnes. 28/Sask: R.); British War and Victory Medals (907516 Pte. A. G. Warnes. 28-Can. Inf.) all lacking suspension, and therefore planchet only, attempt to obliterate naming on VM, otherwise very fine (3) £100-£140 --- M.M. London Gazette 19 November 1918. Alfred George Warnes was born in Leeds, Yorkshire in April 1884. He resided as a Carpenter in Craik, Saskatchewan. Warnes initially served during the Great War with the 195th Battalion (City of Regina), Canadian Infantry, before transferring for service with the 28th Battalion (Northwest). He received a gun shot wound to the head and right hand on the Western Front, 20 April 1917.

A Great War 1916 ‘Somme’ M.M. awarded to Company Sergeant Major H. Conlan, 42nd Battalion (Royal Highlanders of Canada), Canadian Infantry, who died of wounds on the Western Front, 15 April 1917 Military Medal, G.V.R. (418126 Sjt: H. Conlan. 42/Can: Inf:) minor edge nicks, otherwise good very fine £280-£340 --- M.M. London Gazette 9 December 1916, the original recommendation states: ‘In operations near Courcelette, early on the 15th, Sept; he took a party of twenty men over four hundred yards of open country under heavy fire to reinforce the threatened flank of the P.P.C.L.I. in the front line. He succeeded in reaching his objective with 50 men and reported to the Officer in charge and helped bomb out a communication trench. He also assisted to round up some German prisoners and remained in the front line until relieved on September 17th.’ Henry Conlan was born in London in November 1888. He resided with his wife at 2085 St. James, Street, Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Conlan was an original member of the 42nd Battalion (Royal Highlanders of Canada), Canadian Infantry from Montreal enlisting there on 25 February 1915. He embarked for France and Flanders on 9 October 1915, and advanced to Acting Company Sergeant Major on the Vimy front, 1 February 1917. Conlan was severely wounded in action at La Folie Wood in the capture of Vimy Ridge on 14 April 1917. Company Sergeant Major Conlan died of his wounds at No. 6 Casualty Clearing Station, 15 April 1917, and is buried in Barlin Communal Cemetery France. Sold with copied research.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. awarded to Lance Corporal J. R. Fielding, 47th Battalion (British Columbia), Canadian Infantry Military Medal, G.V.R. (826401 Pte L. Cpl.- J. R. Fielding 47/W. Ont. R.) darkly toned, nearly extremely fine £200-£240 --- M.M. London Gazette 11 February 1919. James Rae Fielding was born on the Isle of Man in June 1891. He served with the 47th Battalion (British Columbia), Canadian Infantry on the Western Front, and was ‘Invalided’ due to wounds, 5 September 1918. Sold with copied service papers.

A Second War ‘Italian theatre’ Immediate M.M. group of four awarded to Lance-Corporal J. J. Murphy, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers Military Medal, G.VI.R. (6979921 L. Cpl. J. J. Murphy. R. Innis. Fus.); 1939-45 Star; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf, these last three privately named; mounted as worn, the first with two edge bruises, otherwise good very fine (4) £900-£1,200 --- M.M. London Gazette 18 October 1945. The original recommendation for an Immediate award states: ‘Fusilier James Joseph Murphy, R. Inniskilling Fusiliers, 38 (Irish) Brigade, 78 Infantry Division, 5 Corps. During the morning of 21st April 1945 at Canal Crossing MR 214735 Italy Sheet 76.11.SW. After “C” Coy 2/R. Innis. Fus. had been caught in an artillery barrage, Fus Murphy, who was bren gunner in a rifle section had many comrades killed and wounded. He went out into the open under intense shell and mortar fire and brought in a number of the wounded. He never wavered and set a great example to his comrades. When ordered to come back and take up a defensive position on a canal bank, Fusilier Murphy took his bren gun and searched the canal bank knowing well that there were several enemy posts there. He assisted in capturing a spandau position and a complete section of riflemen. This Fusilier showed tremendous energy, courage, and devotion to duty through an extremely heavy action.’ M.I.D. London Gazette 24 August 1944.

A Second War ‘Italy campaign’ M.M. group of five awarded to Mortar Platoon Sergeant A. E. Moreton, Middlesex Regiment and Princess Louise’s Kensington Regiment, who was also Mentioned in Despatches Military Medal, G.VI.R. (6200187 Sjt. A. E. Morton [sic]. Midd’x. R.) in named white card box of issue and outer transmission box, the white box named ‘6200187 Sjt. A. E. Moreton, Midd’x. R.’; 1939-45 Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf, mounted court-style as worn, extremely fine (5) £1,200-£1,600 --- M.M. London Gazette 13 December 1945: No. 6200187 Sergeant Albert Edward Moreton, 13th London Regiment (Princess Louise’s Kensington Regiment): ‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Italy.’ The original Recommendation, for a periodic M.M., states: ‘Sergeant Moreton is Platoon Sergeant of a 4.2” Mortar Platoon, and has shown consistent courage and steadfastness throughout the Italian campaign. As an instance, on the night of 16-17 April 1945 on the way up to position to support the attack on Argenta, two of the Platoon’s vehicles containing a section of mortars were held up by very heavy shell and mortar fire 500 yards short of the position. Sergeant Moreton received an alternative route on foot for the drivers and crews ands despatched them to the mortar position, and them himself drove the first vehicle through the fire onto the position and then retuned on foot and drove the second vehicle. All mortars were this in action on time. Throughout the night, the position was engaged by enemy guns and mortars, but Sergeant Moreton retained complete control of the situation and excellent supporting fire was given. This N.C.O. has always been in the thick of the fighting, encouraging his men, supervising the fire, and showing a consistent of courage, leadership, and devotion to duty which is beyond praise.’ M.I.D. London Gazette 29 November 1945: 6200187 Sgt. A. E. Moreton, Midd’x R. ‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Italy.’ Albert Edward Moreton was born at Rotherhithe, London, on 29 November 1915 and was serving as a Mortar Platoon Sergeant with the 1st Battalion, Princess Louise’s Kensington Regiment when he was awarded the Military Medal. He died in London on 22 October 1973. Sold with the recipient’s original Mentioned in Despatches Certificate, named ‘Sergeant A. E. Moreton, The Middlesex Regiment (Duke of Cambridge’s Own.)’, and dated 29 November 1945’, with Record Office enclosure; Buckingham Palace enclosure for the M.M., named ‘6200187 Sjt. A. E. Moreton, M.M., The Middlesex Regiment (Duke of Cambridge’s Own).’; Army Council enclosure for the Campaign awards; a sepia portrait photograph of the recipient; the recipient’s miniature width riband bar; and copied research.

A Second War ‘Italy Operations’ M.M. group of seven awarded to Private R. B. Mason, Imperial Light Horse/ Kimberley Regiment, Union Defence Force, later Warrant Officer Class I, Cape Flats Commando, South African Defence Force Military Medal, G.VI.R. (612875 V. Pte. R. B. Mason. I.L.H./K.R.) unit officially corrected (see footnote); 1939-45 Star; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45; Africa Service Medal, these all officially impressed ‘612875 R. B. Mason’; South Africa, South African Defence Force Good Service Medal, silver, for 20 Years’ service, officially numbered ‘870’, on Commando riband; South African Defence Force Good Service Medal, bronze, for 10 Years’ service, officially numbered ‘1892’, on Commando riband, mounted court-style for display with the two South African Good Service awards taking precedence, nearly extremely fine (7) £800-£1,000 --- One of only 20 Military Medals awarded to the Imperial Light Horse/ Kimberley Regiment during the Second World War (6 for North Africa and 14 for Italy). Note: The regimental detail ‘I.L.H./K.R.’ on the recipient’s Military Medal appears to have been officially corrected, at source (the South African Mint). The medal looks as though it was originally named-up to Mason, showing him in the 'B./P.S'. (Botha President Steyn Regiment) - the unit into which he was posted to, on discharged from hospital, after the action in which he was wounded and recommended for an award. Otherwise the medal is correctly named. M.M. London Gazette 31 May 1945: ‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Italy.’ The original Recommendation states: ‘On 14 January 1945 at Casaligastro, Map Ref 771268, Private R. B. Mason was a member of a force of 15 men occupying Casaligastro, an isolated post. At 0130 hrs. this post was attacked by an enemy force of 27 men and heavy fighting ensued lasting until 0245 hrs. Private Mason was guarding the entrance to the main house in which the telephone and wireless were housed and was subjected to repeated attacks which he repulsed single handed causing casualties. Private Mason was wounded in the thigh and stomach during the first attack but he continued to fight off the enemy and hold his post. Later, he was again wounded but met the next attack by closing with the enemy and caused a further casualty. Suffering severe pain, he refused to withdraw and continued engaging until the enemy had been finally dispersed. The fact that the enemy force was eventually driven off was due in very large measure to the courage and splendid devotion to duty shown by Private Mason, his behaviour and total disregard for personal safety was an example to all his comrades.’ Robert Bryan Mason was a born in Cape Town on 21 August 1913 and served with the Cape Town Highlanders from 1 July 1934 to 1 February 1938, and then as a Constable with the Swaziland Special Police from 12 September 1940 to 26 July 1944. He attested for service with the Union Defence Force in July 1944, and was drafted to Italy and posted to the Imperial Light Horse/ Kimberley Regiment in late October 1944. He was wounded during the course of a night-time close-quarter fire-fight with a German patrol, attacking at Casaligastro on the night of 14-15 January 1945, for which he was hospitalised and awarded the Military Medal. He was discharged on 1 April 1946. Mason subsequently joined the South African Defence Force and served with the Cape Flats Commando from 18 February 1963 to 16 November 1977, giving a total service of 20 years and 6 days. Recommendation for both the silver and bronze South African Defence Force Good Service Medals, the recommendation states: ‘Warrant Officer Class II R. B. Mason is a sober and reliable member of this Unit, who has displayed loyalty and sincere devotion to duty and can be relied upon to carry out his tasks in the best interest of the SADF.’ Sold with copied research including copies of the recipient’s Union Defence Force and South African Defence Force military service papers which provide a service history from 1934 to 1979.

A Q.G.M. and Strathclyde Bravery Medal pair awarded to G. J. Toal Esq., Assistant Manager, H. Samuels, Jewellers, Glasgow, for his gallantry in overpowering, disarming, and detaining a determined armed robber on 3 August 1987; during the course of the struggle the robber discharged his handgun three times Queen’s Gallantry Medal (Gerald Joseph Toal); Strathclyde Regional Council Bravery Medal, silver-gilt (Mr. Gerald Joseph Toal) with integral top brooch bar, about extremely fine (2) £4,000-£5,000 --- Q.G.M. London Gazette 10 August 1989: Gerald Joseph Toal, Assistant Manager, H. Samuels, Jewellers, Glasgow. ‘On 3rd August 1987 at approximately 1.15 p.m. a man entered a jeweller’s shop and asked the Assistant Manager, Mr. Toal, to show him a tray of diamond rings that were on display in the window. Mr. Toal returned to the counter with the rings to find the man pointing a handgun at him. The man grabbed the tray of rings and ran out of the shop and into the street, pursued by Mr. Toal. During the chase the gunman stopped twice, turned round and aimed the gun threateningly at Mr. Toal before running into a department store. Mr. Toal continued the chase catching up with the robber within the store. Mr. Toal tackled the gunman and a violent struggle followed, during which the gun was discharged three times, without injury. Meanwhile Mr. Toal's colleague, who had also given chase, arrived and assisted Mr. Toal to overpower, disarm and detain the robber until the arrival of the store security officer and the police. Mr. Toal displayed devotion to duty and bravery of a high order, when, following a hold-up, and without regard for his own safety, he tackled an armed gunman, who during the struggle discharged his weapon three times before he was overpowered, disarmed and detained.’ Gerald Joseph Toal was employed as the Assistant Manager at the H. Samuels store on Argyle Street, Glasgow. He was assisted in the above incident by his colleague, Mr. Paul Douglas, who received a Queen’s Commendation for Brave Conduct.

A Second War 1943 ‘Mine disposal’ B.E.M. group of six awarded to Petty Officer M. H. G. Aldridge, Royal Navy, who was also mentioned in despatches for minesweeping and recovery operations later in the war British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (P.O. Maurice H. G. Aldridge P/JX.125186. R.N.); Naval General Service 1915-62, 1 clasp, Palestine 1936-1939 (JX.125186 M. H. G. Aldridge. A.B. R.N.); 1939-45 Star, reverse privately impressed ‘P/JX 125.186 M. H. G. Aldridge B.E.M. P.O. R.N. “Bomb Disposal”’; Atlantic Star, 1 clasp, France and Germany, reverse privately impressed ‘P/JX 125.186 M. H. G. Aldridge B.E.M. P.O. R.N.’; War Medal 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf, privately impressed ‘P/JX 125.186 M. H. G. Aldridge B.E.M. P.O. R.N.’; Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., G.VI.R., 1st issue (JX 125.186 M. H. G. Aldridge. P.O. H.M.S. Vernon.) mounted as worn, good very fine (6) £600-£800 --- B.E.M. London Gazette 3 August 1943: ‘Petty Officer Maurice Henry Gordon Aldridge, P/JX.125186.’ One of three awards of the B.E.M. (Military) immediately following the award of the George Cross to Lieutenant Hugh Randall Syme, G.M., R.A.N.V.R., all four awards being ‘for great bravery and undaunted devotion to duty.’ Seedies Roll confirms award for ‘Mine disposal’ and gives investiture date as 30 November 1943. M.I.D. London Gazette 29 January 1946. Seedies roll confirms award for minesweeping and recovery operations whilst serving in H.M. Yacht Esmeralda.

A post-War B.E.M. awarded to Sergeant A. Hale, Royal Air Force British Empire Medal, (Military) E.II.R. (4020362 Sgt. A. Hale. RAF.) in Royal Mint case of issue, extremely fine £120-£160 --- B.E.M. London Gazette 1 January 1963. Arthur Hale was born on 21 March 1920 and was a dock worker before enlisting into the Royal Air Force; his Certificate of Service lists his other awards as 1939-45 Star; Pacific Star; War Medal 1939-45; Australia Service Medal; and Long Service and Good Conduct Medal. He was awarded the British Empire Medal ‘for his part in organising the Joint Services Air Movement in 1961 at R.A.F. Gütersloh’ (the recipient’s testimonial in his Certificate of Service refers). He was discharged on 28 April 1966. Sold with the recipient’s Royal Air Force Certificate of Service; named Buckingham Palace enclosure for the B.E.M.; and a small engraved plaque that reads ‘Sgt Arthur Hale, For Services in Berlin during the Airlift, 1948-1949.’

A post-War ‘Civil Division’ B.E.M awarded to Bookbinder Mr. G. F. Currie British Empire Medal, (Civil) E.II.R. (Gavin Fleming Currie) in Royal Mint case of issue, extremely fine £100-£140 --- B.E.M. London Gazette 31 December 1987: Gavin Fleming Currie, Bookbinder, William Collins plc, Bishopbriggs. Gavin Fleming Currie was born at Harthill, Lanarkshire, in 1929, and was awarded his British Empire Medal in the 1988 New Year’s Honours’ List, having been with Collins for 43 years, and also given huge service to the Community. He was presented with his B.E.M. by Brigadier Pearson, H.M. Lord Lieutenant of Dunbartonshire. He died in Stirlingshire in 2013. Sold with a photographic image of the recipient being presented with his B.E.M.

Three: Quarter-Master-Sergeant John Massey, 14th Foot Military General Service 1793-1814, 1 clasp, Corunna (John Massey, 14th Foot.); Army of India 1799-1826, 1 clasp, Bhurtpoor (J. Massey, 14th Foot.) short hyphen reverse, officially impressed naming; Army L.S. & G.C., W.IV.R. (J. Massey, Q. Master Serj. 14th Regiment Foot. 1832) fitted with original steel clip and rectangular bar suspension, some very light contact marks, otherwise good very fine and better (3) £3,000-£4,000 --- John Massey was born in the Parish of Hymstead, Essex, and attested for the 14th Foot at Colchester on 7 December 1805, aged 14 years. He served as an under-age Private until 6 December 1809, and after the age of 18 until 10 October 1812, when he was promoted to Corporal. He was promoted to Sergeant on 25 February 1815, appointed Colour-Sergeant on 15 May 1815, and promoted to Quarter-Master-Sergeant on 9 December 1831, in which rank he served until his final discharge on 13 June 1832. He ‘Served Twelve Years & Eighty Eight days in the East Indies. Served in the North of Spain under Sir John Moore in the years 1808 & 1809, was at the Battle of Corunna, where the Regiment was particularly distinguished. In 1809 was at the Siege and Capture of Walcheren, and embarked a second time, to cover the re-embarkation of the Army. In 1810 served with the Flank Companies in Sicily. In 1814 served in the expedition to Genoa. In 1815 served in the expedition from Genoa that landed at Marseilles. Embarked for the East Indies in the year 1818. In 1825 and 1826 served in the expedition against the Fortress of Bhurtpore, and at the Storm & Capture of it.’ Massey’s L.S. & G.C. medal was delivered to W. Wright Esq., Portsmouth, on 24 September 1832, in which town Massey had stated his intention to reside and receive his pension. Sold with copied discharge papers.

Pair: Private Edward Hodgins, 13th Prince Albert’s Light Infantry Ghuznee 1839 (Corl. Edward Hodgins XIII P.A.L.I. 252) regimentally impressed naming, fitted with replacement silver bar suspension; Cabul 1842 (Pt. Edward Hodgins. XIII. P.A.L.I.) regimentally impressed naming, fitted with original steel clip and bar suspension, edge bruising and contact marks, otherwise nearly very fine (2) £1,000-£1,400 --- Edward Hodgins transferred from the 89th Foot to the 13th L.I. as a Corporal on 9 September 1830. He was reduced to Private in December 1839, promoted to Corporal in November 1842, but reduced to Private again in August 1843. He landed in the U.K. at Gravesend on 8 August 1845. Hodgins is also entitled to the medal for Jellalabad. Sold with copied entry from Gosling’s roll.

Four: Private D. Batson, Royal Marines Crimea 1854-56, 3 clasps, Balaklava, Sebastopol, Inkermann, clasps mounted in this order (David Batson. R.M.) officially impressed naming; China 1857-60, 1 clasp, Canton 1857 (D. Batson. R.M.L.I.) Depot impressed naming; Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., V.R., wide suspension (Dd. Batson. Pte. R.M. 42nd. Coy. 22 Yrs.) suspension claw loose, with traces of brooch mounting to obverse; Turkish Crimea 1855, British issue (D Batson Po D RMLI) Depot impressed naming, plugged and fitted with a China-style suspension, contact marks, generally very fine and a rare, possibly unique, combination of awards (4) £1,000-£1,400 --- Confirmed on the Crimea Medal roll of H.M.S. London for Balaklava and Sebastopol only. The Balaklava clasp is rare on an officially impressed medal to the Royal Navy and Royal Marines. No verification has been found to support his entitlement to the Inkermann clasp. David Batson was born at Compton, nearly Sherborne, Dorset, and enlisted in the Royal Marines at Portsmouth in June 1845, aged 31. Joining H.M.S. London in August 1853, he served with the Naval Brigade in the Crimea, and took part in the actions at Balaklava and before Sebastopol, and was subsequently actively employed in the Second China War, when serving in H.M.S. Calcutta, including the attack on Canton in 1857. He was discharged back to Portsmouth in February 1868, and was awarded his Long Service and Good Conduct Medal, together with a gratuity of £5, the same month. Sold with copied research.

Pair: Leading Seaman T. Lee, Royal Navy Crimea 1854-56, 1 clasp, Sebastopol (Thomas Lee. H.M.S. St. Jean d’Acre.) contemporarily engraved naming, with contemporary top silver riband bar; Turkish Crimea 1855, British issue, unnamed as issued, pierced with small ring suspension, heavy contact marks to first, therefore fine, the second better (2) £240-£280 --- Thomas Lee was born at Portsmouth on 21 December 1826 and joined the Royal Navy in February 1846. He served in H.M.S. St. Jean d’Acre from September 1853 to November 1856 (also entitled to a Baltic Medal), and joined H.M. Coast Guard in June 1858. He finally retired as a Chief Officer on 21 December 1884. Sold with copied record of service and medal roll extracts.

Pair: Private J. Hyde, 56th Foot Crimea 1854-56, 1 clasp, Sebastopol (Jas. Hyde, 56th. Regt.) officially impressed naming; Turkish Crimea 1855, Sardinian issue, unnamed as issued, pierced as issue and fitted with a soldered ring and narrow straight bar suspension, edge bruising and contact marks to first, with top lugs removed, therefore nearly very fine, the second better (2) £240-£280 --- James Hyde was born in Rochdale, Lancashire, in 1836 and attested for the 56th Regiment of Foot at Manchester on 8 June 1854. He served with the Regiment in the Crimea for 292 days, and then in India, transferring to the 106th Regiment of Foot on 1 December 1865. He was finally discharged on 20 July 1875, after 21 years and 15 days’ service, of which 16 years were spent soldiering in India. He did not receive a Long Service and Good Conduct Medal Sold with copied record of service and medal roll extracts.

Three: Deputy Assistant Commissary General A. F. Cookesley, Commissariat Department Crimea 1854-56, 4 clasps, Alma, Balaklava, Inkermann, Sebastopol (A. F. Cookesley. Depy. Asst. Comy. General) Hunt & Roskell style engraved naming; China 1857-60, no clasp D. Ast. Comy. Genl. A. F. Cookesley.) officially impressed naming; Turkish Crimea 1855, Sardinian issue, fitted with rings for suspension, unnamed as issued, mounted as worn, very fine (3) £1,000-£1,400 --- Augustus Foulkes Cookesley was appointed Deputy Assistant Commissary General on 1 January 1855. He served with the Head Quarters of the army throughout the Eastern campaign of 1854-55, including the battles of Alma, Balaklava, and Inkermann, and siege of Sebastopol (Medal and four Clasps, and Turkish Medal). He afterwards served on the Cape of Good Hope and China stations, where he was at the taking of Pekin; and finally joined Major Gordon’s Anglo-Chinese contingent. He died suddenly of Asiatic cholera at Quinsan, China, on 16 July 1863, aged 30, and is buried in Shantung Road Cemetery.