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United States of America, A selection of American Medals, including Distinguished Service Cross; Navy Cross; Silver Star (2); Distinguished Flying Cross (2); Soldiers Medal; Airman’s Medal; Bronze Star (2), one with oak leaf cluster emblem on riband; Purple Heart (2), the reverse of one named ‘Raymond J. Halligan’; Meritorious Service Medal, with gilt star emblem on riband; Air Medal (2); Joint Service Commendation Medal; Combat Readiness Medal; Army Good Conduct Medal (2); Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal; Army National Guard Achievement Medal (2); Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal; Allied Victory Medal; American Defense Service Medal (2); American Campaign Medal; Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, with two bronze star emblems on riband; European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal; Victory Medal (2); Army of Occupation Medal (4), one no clasp, two with the single clasp ‘Asia’; and one with two clasps for ‘Japan’ and ‘Germany’; Medal of Humane Action; Korean Service Medal (2); Southwest Asia Service Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Antarctic Service Medal; Armed Forces Expeditionary Service Medal (2); Humanitarian Service Medal; Armed Forces Reserve Medal; together with a Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, 1 clasp, 1960-; three Nigerian Medals; a Saudi Arabian Medal for the Liberation of Kuwait; a copy Irish General Service Medal 1917-21 with Comrac bar; and various other unofficial medals and riband bars, all unnamed except where stated, some copies or later strikings, generally good very fine (lot) £200-£240

The Book of Orders of Knighthood Etc. of All Nations. Edited by Sir Bernard Burke, Ulster King of Arms, published by Hurst and Blackett, London, 1858, 411pp., including index, with numerous colour plates, hardback, with original morocco covers, some light scuffing, otherwise good condition The War Medal Record (Including Orders of Knighthood). Volume I, Edited and published by Spink and Son, London, 1896, 254pp., including index, with numerous plates, hardback, with original morocco covers, some light scuffing, otherwise good condition Boulton’s Medal on the Reconquest of Naples 1799. Published Birmingham 1926, 15pp., including a facsimile of Nelson’s letter of 1 December 1800, hardback, good condition (3) £60-£80

A Great War ‘North Russia’, Archangel Force M.C. group of three awarded to Captain J. Peter, Royal Army Medical Corps, attached 17th Battalion, King’s (Liverpool) Regiment, for gallantry under heavy fire near Kodish on 7 February 1919 Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued; British War Medal 1914-20, naming erased, Victory Medal 1914-19 (Capt. J. Peter.) VM with replacement ring suspension, good very fine (3) £500-£700 --- M.C. London Gazette 27 May 1919: ‘For gallantry and devotion to duty during the attack on enemy positions near Kodish on 7 February 1919. Under heavy fire he attended to the wounded and placed them on sleighs. It was largely due to his fine conduct that the wounded were promptly evacuated and many lives saved.’ John Peter served during the Great War in North Russia from 12 October 1918.

A rare Second War ‘Battle of Venraij, October 1944’ M.C. and ‘River Escaut, May 1940’ M.M. group of six awarded to Major Frederick Bell, 2nd Battalion, The Royal Warwickshire Regiment Military Cross, G.VI.R. reverse officially dated 1945; Military Medal, G.VI.R. (5107913 Sjt. F. Bell. R. War. R.); 1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, extremely fine (6) £4,000-£5,000 --- M.C. London Gazette 1 March 1945. The recommendation for an Immediate M.C., dated 23 October 1944, states: ‘Maj BELL commanded “D” Coy in the opening and subsequent phases of the battle for VENRAIJ. The initial role of this Coy on the 16th Octoberwas to make a bridge-head across a dyke through which the assaulting Coys in the attack proper would pass. The attack to make the bridge-head was a particularly difficult one. There was a great deal of opposition both from small arms and DF Mortar fire, and the approaches to and exits from the obstacle was strewn freely with Schu Mines. Maj BELL, in spite of known previous losses through Schu Mines, personally led his Coy to and across the obstacle at great risk to himself. On the other side his Coy was engaged by a tank or SP from a nearby farm. Mj Bell, by his personal action in visiting his forward Pl under heavy fire, directed PIAT and other fire upon the farm building which caused the enemy to withdraw. By this time he had lost in casualties his Second-in-Command and all his Pl officers. From then onwards he personally led the Coy, forming up in rear of the assaulting Coy. At each stage of the attack he was to be found up with the leading Pl calmly organising and supervising a plan for attack or re-organisation on the objective, quite regardless of personal risk, which was great owing to continuous enemy mortar and shell fire. Finally, on the objective in BRABANDER - Northern outskitrs of VENRAIJ, he personally supervised the layout of the whole of his Coy down to sec posts. His devotion to duty, calmness, courage, determination and cheerfulness throughout the operation, lasting from 0400 hrs until dusk were an example to all and were infectious.’ M.M. London Gazette 20 August 1940. According to Personal Diary of Captain L. T. Tomes, 2nd Batt. The Royal Warwickshire Regiment, privately printed in 1946 (copy sold with Lot), Sergeant Bell was put up for the M.M. for the action at Hollain, River Escaut, on May 20th and 21st, 1940, and further good work later on up to the Battalion’s capitulation on the 28th May, 1940, in the action at Womhoudt, on the Dunkirk perimeter. Tomes was than a Lieutenant and Adjutant of the 2nd Battalion. He was taken prisoner of war and wrote the diary ‘immediately I arrived in a permanent camp, from what I remembered from the War Diary which I had been keeping’ (accompanying letter from the author refers). Major Frederick Bell is listed as having been wounded in May 1945. Sold with a comprehensive selection of documents, news cuttings, a 3rd British Infantry Divisional commendation card for the attack on Le Blois 13th August 1944, case of issue for M.C. and accompanying named enclosure with card box and Registered envelope addressed to Major Bell, M.C., M.M., Purley, Surrey, Certificate of Service until discharged to a commission on 17 December 1940, Officers’ Release Book, his Royal Warwicks side cap, and a silver tankard, hallmarked London 1945, inscribed below regimental crest ‘Major F. Bell M.C. M.M. from all ranks of D. Company 2nd Batt Royal Warwickshire Regt British Liberation Army 1944-1945.’

Bestowal Documents Awarded to Unteroffizier August Inkmann, a Recipient of the German Cross in Gold. A superb grouping of 8 award documents, which culminate in the award of the German Cross in Gold, all awarded to Unteroffizier August Inkmann, for extreme bravery during the Second World War. Apart from the awards being for outstanding bravery, some of these documents have been signed by notable personalities who themselves were awarded the Knights Cross and above. The documents comprise: i) German Cross in Gold award document, dated ‘16 February 1945’, with a facsimile signature of Field Marshal Keitel, A5 size, folded twice. ii) Iron Cross First Class award document, dated 8 December 1944, and hand signed by General Major Gerhardt Engle, a recipient of the Knights Cross with Oak Leaves, who served as Adjutant to Adolf Hitler, A5 size, folded once. iii) Iron Cross Second Class award document, dated 9 July 1942, and hand signed by General Major Walter Von Seydlitz-Kurzbach, a recipient of the Knights Cross with Oak Leaves, who was one of 27 Generals who was taken prisoner at the Battle of Stalingrad, A5 size, folded once. iv) 25 Panzer Assault Badge award document, for 25 consecutive days of combat, dated 2 December 1944, A5 size, folded twice. Although Inkmann was an infantryman the operations must have included operations with a Panzer unit for him to qualify for this badge. v) Infantry Assault Badge award document, dated 18 April 1942, A5 size, folded twice, two tears to the left hand side. vi) East Front Medal award document, hand signed by Major Heinz Georg Lemm, a recipient of the Knights Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords, A5 size, folded once. vii) Wound Badge in Silver award document, a field typed A5 size citation, folded twice, very frail. viii) Wound Badge in Black award document, dated 6 March 1942, A5 size, folded twice, generally good condition (8) £800-£1,000 --- August Inkmann was born on 10 October 1917 and served during the Second World War initially with Stabskompanie, Fusilier Regiment 27 in the Russian Campaign, and later with Infantry Regiment 199 (List) n the Battle of the Bulge and the Ardennes Offensive. He died on 7 December 1982. Sold with some very interesting research documents dating back to the 1980’s, carried out by the original collector, plus a nice letter written at the request of Inkmann’s widow by a school girl (on account of her understanding of English) to the collector who was enquiring as to the whereabouts and a possible contact with the recipient August Inkmann; the girl informs him that August Inkmann died a few months ago; together with four photographs of the recipient on the Russian Front, and letters from the Veterans Organisation of his unit.

Germany, Third Reich, East Front Medal, manufactured by Klein & Quenzer of Idar Oberstein, ring maker stamped ‘65’, with all finish remaining, in original paper packet with manufacturer marking, extremely fine £40-£50

A good Second War 1945 ‘Kyaukse operations’ M.C. group of six awarded to Major D. G. Butterworth, 9th Battalion, 12th Frontier Force Regiment, who was about to lead his Company in an attack on a heavily defended position, when he received a signal informing him that he would have to assume command of the Battalion due to the O.C. and all other officers at Battalion H.Q. being wounded by a Japanese sniper’s grenade. He remained with his company long enough to see them on their way, and then hastened to Battalion H.Q. from where he restored order and proceeded to successfully orchestrate the Battalion’s attack. Butterworth was ‘able to secure all his objectives and force some two hundred Japanese to break and flee’ Military Cross, G.VI.R. reverse officially dated ‘1945’; India General Service 1936-39, 1 clasp, North West Frontier 1937-39 (Lt. D. G. Butterworth, 1-12 F.F.R.); 1939-45 Star; Burma Star; War Medal 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf; India Service Medal, mounted for display, generally very fine or better (6) £1,600-£2,000 --- M.C. London Gazette 20 September 1945. The original recommendation states: ‘For highly distinguished services and gallantry in action - at Sigon in Burma on 26 March 1945 during operations to clear a strong force of enemy who were threatening the main road to Kyaukse and jeopardising the operations of the leading Battalions against Kyaukse. Major Butterworth was commanding his company which was to assault the first located enemy position. Just before H hour he received a signal that he would have to assume command of the Battalion, 9th Battalion, 12th Frontier Force Regiment, as the Commanding Officer and all other officers at Battalion Headquarters had been wounded and evacuated. He remained with his company long enough to see them leave their start line and on arriving at Battalion Headquarters he found great confusion. Heavy grenade discharger and small arms fire was coming into Battalion Headquarters. As he arrived he heard his company had been pinned to the ground by accurate MMG fire just in front of theur start line, and were taking heavy casualties, amongst whom was the officer who had taken over command from him. He then showed leadership of the highest standard and quickly ordering another company to move round the flank of the enemy holding up the leading company and arranging for his heavy artillery in support of him to destroy by bombard the enemy bunkers which had brought the attack to a standstill, he was able to secure all his objectives and force some two hundred Japanese to break and flee. The leadership displayed by this officer under extremely difficult conditions, together with his gallantry under fire were a fine inspiration both to Battalion Headquarters who in confusion when he arrived and his company who were having a hard fight. Such was his inspiration to his Battalion, that notwithstanding the loss of their Commanding Officer, Adjutant, and Intelligence officer, they were inspired to fight to a successful finish their battle and completely put to rout the enemy who had control of the main road to Kyaukse.’ M.I.D. London Gazette 5 April 1945. Derrick Geoffrey Butterworth was born in Belgaum, India in November 1913. He was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the 12th Frontier Force Regiment in February 1934, and advanced to Captain in October 1940. Butterworth served with the 9th Battalion during the Second War, and Officer Commanding, Administrative Company when the Battalion entered the Burma theatre in October 1943. Initially stationed in the Kabaw Valley, the Battalion command was restructured and in June the following year, Butterworth was Second-in-Command and in Command of the H.Q. Company. Early in the new year, Butterworth was in command of ‘A’ Company and by now heavily involved in the reconquest of Burma. The Regimental History gives the following: ‘The Battalion was now ordered to capture Yezin and Inza, clearing all Japs from the area between Kanlan Ywathit and Kanlan. This operation was ordered for 28th February and proved to be the Battalion’s outstanding achievement in the campaign for the reconquest of Burma. A tank squadron of the 7th Cavalry and the divisional artillery supported the attack. ‘C’ Company with the tanks led the advance, with ‘B’ Company following, and immediately found difficulty in locating the Japs who were well dug in and concealed in elephant grass and tobacco fields. Hand-to-hand fighting ensued, slowing down the advance. Major Butterworth wrote of this stage of the action as follows: “A Jemadar of ‘D’ Company had a hand-to-hand fight with a Jap officer and killed him in full view from Battalion Headquarters at Kanlan. A lot of slaughter was done to the east of Yezin in the nullah, by the tanks and ‘C’ Company, who stuck to the tanks like leeches. The Japs had anti-tank mines with them which they were clutching to themselves, attempting to blow the tanks up and themselves at the same time. A 105mm gun crew fought to the end until they were wiped out by the tanks. They were firing point blank over the sights.” As ‘C’ Company advanced with the tanks, enemy artillery and MMG fire caused casualties, and ‘B’ Company also became involved in the mêlée in the area south of Kanlan, where the main force of Japs was found to be dug in with strong bunkers, difficult for the tanks to deal with. However, the advance was not held up.’ Butterworth distinguished himself during the operations around Kyaukse (see recommendation above), and the Regimental History gives the following: ‘As a preliminary to the main attack on Kyaukse, the Battalion cleared the outlying villages of Thimbok and Kegwigye, and in this action Lieutenant Waters was killed. He was a keen young officer who had only recently joined the Battalion. The Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Hayaud Din, also was wounded at Kyaukse. He gives the following account of the action: “Actually the attack had gone off very well. The village had largely been cleared, and the Japs were running away fast. The forward companies were going well with Battalion Headquarters behind them. I stopped with the Adjutant, Captain Miller, and the Intelligence Officer, Lieutenant Bangash, to look at a map, when a Jap sniper hiding in a bush and not far from us popped up and threw a grenade at us. This landed in the middle of our group, wounding all three of us. However, I was able to continue commanding the Battalion, but sent off Miller and Bangash to the aid post for treatment. Later when the medical Officer learnt that I had also been wounded he came forward. As I was still bleeding he insisted on taking me back, and I sent for Butterworth to take over command.” Major Butterworth also writes: “We had a bit of trouble next day, but the Japs were clearing out every night. The Battalion was the first to enter Kyaukse. Some of us got up to Maymo from there, where we got news of the excellent work done there in the Jap hospital by our first Medical Officer Lieutenant Batt. He had earlier been captured on the first day the Japs came over the Chindwin advancing on Imphal.”’ The Battalion was given a further complete rest at Kyaukse, and in view of the heavy casualties it had suffered, particularly among officers, its role was now changed to Divisional Headquarters Battalion. Butterworth was posted to the Staff College at Quetta in June 1945, and appointed Brigade Major, Frontier Brigade Group the following year. Major Butterworth retired in 1947, and in later life resided at The Green Farm, Wangford, Beccles, Suffolk. He died...

A post-War A.F.C. group of eight awarded to Wing Commander J. T. Carter, Royal Australian Air Force Air Force Cross, E.II.R., reverse officially dated 1965; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; Australia Service Medal, the three Second War awards all officially named ‘437929 J T Carter.’; Korea 1950-53, 1st issue (04430 J. T. Carter.); U.N. Korea 1950-54 (04430 J. T. Carter.); Vietnam 1964-73 (04430 Carter. J. T.) naming very faintly impressed; South Vietnam Medal 1964, 1 clasp, 1960-, unnamed as issued, all Rhodium plated and mounted court-style as worn, nearly extremely fine (8) £1,800-£2,200 --- A.F.C. London Gazette 12 June 1965. John Thomas Carter was born in Adelaide, South Australia, on 19 March 1925 and enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force on 24 April 1943. Awarded his Flying Badge (Pilot) on 16 January 1944, he was discharged in the rank of Warrant Officer on demobilisation on 18 January 1946, after 2 years and 270 days’ service. Carter re-enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force on 2 February 1948, and served as a Pilot with No. 30 Communications Flight in Korea from 1 April to 17 October 1951. He was granted a commission on 1 March 1953, and saw further service with No. 1 Operational Support Unit in Vietnam from 28 April 1967 to 1 April 1968. Advanced Wing Commander, he retired on 14 June 1974. A letter of appreciation from the Air Board on the occasion of his retirement states: ‘I should like to mention the valuable contribution you made in your appointment as Resident Air Force Officer and later as Commander, Air Component, Joint Force in Papua New Guinea. You performed your duties most creditably and did much to ensure the smooth functioning of the headquarters. I should also like to comment on your well-deserved award of the Air Force Cross. This was a fitting testimonial to the outstanding skill and competence you displayed during your tour of duty as a VIP aircraft captain in No. 34 Squadron.’ Sold with the recipients three Certificates of Service and Discharge; letter to him on the occasion of his retirement, dated 5 July 1974; and copied research.

A Crimean War ‘Heavy Brigade’ D.C.M. group of three awarded to Sergeant J. Gilligan, 4th (Royal Irish) Dragoon Guards Distinguished Conduct Medal, V.R. (John Gilligan, 4th R. Irish Dn. Gds.) first two letters of Christian name and ‘G’ of Gds. carefully re-tooled due to edge bruising; Crimea 1854-56, 3 clasps, Balaklava, Inkermann, Sebastopol (Serjt. John Gilligan, 4th Dragoon Guards) contemporarily engraved naming, converted to fixed suspension with reverse facing forwards; Turkish Crimea, Sardinian issue (Serjt. J. Gilligan. 4th. Dragoon. Gds.) contemporarily impressed naming, pierced as issued with small ring suspension, all mounted for a triple decorative silver riband bar, edge bruising and contact marks, generally nearly very fine (3) £3,000-£4,000 --- D.C.M. Recommendation dated 1 January 1855. John Gilligan attested for the 4th (Royal Irish) Dragoon Guards, and served with them in the Crimea, the musters showing him effective as a Private from 1 October to 31 December 1854. He was discharged, medically unfit, on 30 June 1868; upon his discharge his character and conduct are described as ‘very good, he was when promoted in possession of five good conduct badges. Also in possession of Crimea Medal with three clasps (for Balaklava, Inkermann and Sebastopol) and Turkish War Medal. He has also been granted a silver medal and gratuity of £5 for distinguished service in the field at the Battle of Balaklava.’ (Forgotten Heroes, The Charge of the Heavy Brigade, by Roy Dutton refers).

German Second World War Badges. Comprising a nice condition 936 pattern Wound Badge in gold with semi hollow centre, maker marked ‘H.Wagner, Berlin’; a German military administration officials badge for France and Belgium, individually numbered ‘3817’ with some enamel damage; a Military administration officials badge for Belgium and Holland, painted variety, individually numbered 4756; an NSFK non portable award for a flying model competition 25-28 August 1939; a War Medal 1939; and two Dutch Landwacht officials cap badges, one stamped metal the other one highly unusual in plastic, both with their fixing pins on the reverse side, generally good condition (7) £160-£200

German Second World War Miscellaneous Awards and Insignia. Comprising a 1 Oktober 1938 medal with its original ribbon, all lacquer finish remaining; a Return of the Saar medal, this is an unofficial medal, struck at the time in January 1935 with its original ribbon, impressive design; a Third Reich police cap badge with both pins maker marked ‘JFS’; a SA or Political Leaders cap eagle in white metal, all pins present, RZM marked; a scarce Reichswehr officers cap badge in white metal with both pins present; a small gold post officials cap eagle, all pin fixing present; a Factory Protection Force Werkschutz cap eagle with both of its fixing pins present; two edelweiss metallic cap devices and one jager cap device with fixing pins present; 1941 to 43 Finnish German award in enamels, front enamel disc loose from the main body in a fitted box; and a Croatian Pilots Badge, a very nice quality probably German or Austrian made, large tinny type construction, the Croatian shield being in paint rather than enamels, generally good condition (12) £160-£200

A Boer War D.C.M. group of three awarded to Corporal W. Cookney, ‘Pom-Poms’ Royal Horse Artillery Distinguished Conduct Medal, E.VII.R. (88540 Cpl. W. Cookney. R.A.); Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 3 clasps, Cape Colony, Orange Free State, Transvaal (88540 Cpl. W. Cookney. R.H.A.); King’s South Africa 1901-02, 2 clasps, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 (88540 Cpl. W. Cookney. R.H.A.) all slightly later issues with small impressed naming, toned, extremely fine (3) £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 31 October 1902. M.I.D. London Gazette 29 July 1902. William Cookney was born in Bermondsey, London, and attested for the Royal Artillery at Woolwich, on 19 January 1892. He transferred to the Royal Horse Artillery the following month, and was advanced to Bombardier in January 1894. He served in India from December 1892 to December 1897, and suffered a ‘wound right cheek (on duty) 8 September 1897’ (Service Papers refer). Cookney initially served with ‘O’ Battery, Royal Horse Artillery during the Boer War, before transferring to L/L Section Pom-Poms in February 1900. He was advanced to Corporal in May 1900, and returned to the UK in August 1902. He was discharged on 18 January 1904, after 12 years’ service. Note: The recipient’s original D.C.M. was sold in these rooms in March 2017.

‘In a fight against large odds he is perfectly happy and an excellent shot, he has on several occasions proved his capabilities under very trying circumstances and on one occasion, at considerable risk and very great discomfort, saved a machine from a forced landing by standing on the plane and holding together two ends of a petrol pipe.’ The superb and extremely rare Great War Royal Naval Division ‘Gallipoli and Western Front’ D.C.M., Royal Naval Air Service ‘North Sea Patrols’ D.F.M. group of seven awarded to Chief Petty Officer W. G. Chapman, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, later Chief Mechanic, Royal Naval Air Service, who was awarded the D.C.M. for brave deeds with the Drake Battalion at Antwerp 1914, ashore at Cape Helles, 1915, and in France, 1916. Subsequently joining R.N.A.S. Great Yarmouth where, as an exceptional engineer and fearless crew member, Chapman displayed the utmost gallantry in action on numerous long distance flying boat patrols, 1917-18, often engaging in fights with enemy scouts and fast seaplanes; gallantry for which he was awarded the D.F.M. and was Mentioned in Despatches Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (Lond: 10-3044 Ch: P.O. W. G. Chapman. Drake Bn: 63/R.N.D.); Distinguished Flying Medal, G.V.R. (224573 Sergt.-Mech Chapman W. G., D.S.M. R.A.F.); 1914 Star (L.10/3044 W. G. Chapman, A.B. R.N.V.R. Drake Bttn R.N.D.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (224573. Ch. Mech. W. G. Chapman. R.A.F.); Canadian Volunteer Service Medal; War Medal 1939-45, Canadian issue in silver, with M.I.D. oak leaf, nearly extremely fine (7) £4,000-£5,000 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 1 January 1917, citation published 13 February 1917: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He has performed consistent good work with the Division since its formation.’ Annotated Gazette states ‘Gallipoli’ and ‘France’. D.F.M. London Gazette 21 September 1918: ‘He has been a member of a seaplane crew on practically every long-distance patrol. He has taken part with zeal, gallantry, and coolness in numerous engagements with hostile aircraft.’ M.I.D. London Gazettes 1 May 1918 and 2 June 1943. Note: In common with their Royal Marine counterparts, when coming under Army command during integrated land operations, the N.C.O.s and men of the Royal Naval Division were unusual in their eligibility for both the D.C.M. and the D.S.M. This complexity is undoubtedly responsible for the erroneous post-nominals ‘D.S.M.’ being impressed on Chapman’s D.F.M. rather than ‘D.C.M.’. This administrative error was replicated in the London Gazette entry for his award. William George Chapman was born in Bournemouth, Hampshire, on 10 April 1895 and was raised in Southwark, London. An electrical engineer by occupation, he joined the London Division of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve on 23 October 1913 and was mobilised for war on 2 August 1914, immediately seeing service in the North Sea. Posted as an Able Seaman to the 1st (Drake) Battalion of the newly formed Royal Naval Division on 22 August, he participated with the 1st Naval Brigade in the Antwerp operations during October 1914, making good his return to England the same month. Gallipoli Petty Officer Chapman embarked with ‘A’ Company of his battalion in February 1915 for ‘an operation in the Mediterranean’, arriving at Port Said, Egypt on 29 March. A week later he was re-embarked for Gallipoli where the Drake Battalion was landed at 8.30pm on 26 April onto the Cape Helles beaches barely won by the main landings the previous day. At 8am on 28 April, with the entire Naval Division now on land, the Drake Battalion - attached 87th Brigade, 29th Division (and the only battalion of the R.N.D. to be engaged that day) - was thrust into the assault inland towards Krithia and Achi Baba. Suffering heavy losses, the tired, demoralised and virtually leaderless troops were soon stopped by the resolute Ottomans and the First Battle of Krithia was all over by nightfall. Digging in just above the W Beach headland, the Drake Battalion were next involved in the successful repulsion of a Turkish counter attack on 1 May (Battle of Eski Hissarlik) and would be employed in further attempts to push inland on 6-8 May (Second Battle of Krithia), 4 June (Third Battle of Krithia) and the Action at Achi Baba Nullah on 12/13 July. All to no avail and at great cost. In fact, so numerically weakened had they become, the Naval Division played little part in the later struggles at Cape Helles in August and September. Finally, and somewhat anticlimactically, on 8 January 1916 the men of the Drake Battalion, together with the rest of the British Empire forces, left their trenches for the last time, returned to the beaches so hard won, and left the peninsula. Battle of the Ancre - D.C.M. The Royal Naval Division (now renumbered the 63rd (Royal Naval) Division, comprising of the the 188th, 189th and 190th Brigades) was ordered to France in May 1916 as part of V Corps, 5th Army and so following four months peaceable employment in the Aegean, Chapman returned to the Western Front now in the rank of Chief Petty Officer. Disembarking at Marseille on 7 June 1916, the Division took it’s place in the fighting line between Lens and Vimy Ridge in the Angres-Souchez sector on the Western front. Here, the life of the Division was almost uniformly without incident and it was moved to the IV Corps training area in mid September. Two months later, the Royal Naval Division, commanded by the increasingly unpopular Major-General Shute, was thrown into the Battle of the Ancre, 13-18 November 1916, during the final stages of the Battle of the Somme, advancing along the River Ancre to capture Beaucourt. The Drake Battalion, of the 189th Brigade, lost half their effective strength in the opening stages of the attack, including their C.O. Lieutenant-Colonel Tetley killed, and many more were scattered. The remaining body of three officers and eighty petty officers and men now came under the command Colonel Freyburg of the Hood Battalion whose composite force went on to execute a series of brilliant advances before capturing Beaucourt Village. Freyburg was awarded the Victoria Cross: ‘Again at a critical moment in the battle Colonel Freyburg retrieved the situation by himself leading the assault, followed by a mixed detachment of his own men, details of Drake, Hawke, Nelson and H.A.C., and the 13th K.R.R.C. In a moment Beaucourt was ours, the garrison of eight hundred surrendering, almost without a pretence of resistance.’ (The Royal Naval Division by Douglas Jerrold refers). Jerrold goes on to state that ‘the success of the Hood and Drake Battalions was both brilliant and astonishing, and it was decisive’. However, it could scarcely redeem the severe losses suffered by the two Naval Brigades. For the Drake Battalion’s part, only three officers and some 280 petty officers and men survived the battle unwounded. Immediately after the Ancre, on 5 December 1916, Chapman was discharged to the R.N.A.S. as a C.P.O. Mechanic, having been rated exceptional in his assessment. He was awarded the D.C.M. (London Gazette 1 January 1917) for his gallantry with the Naval Division since its formation, the annotated gazette entry for the award stating ‘France’ with an additional side note stating ‘Gallipoli’. Whilst the timing of this D.C.M. is consistent with other Ancre awards, in later interviews Chapman would describe his D.C.M. as a Gallipoli award. It seems most correct, however, to take the citation at face value and regard it as a decoration for distinguished conduct...

German Second World War Army Award Certificates. Three award citations to Feldwebel Heinrich Burose, comprising an A5 size, non punch holed, folded once citation for the Wound Badge in Black to Heinrich Burose as a member of 4./Komp./J.R.251 date of award 19 February 1942 signed by Unit Doctor; a Wound Badge in Silver, non punch holed, folded once, slight foxing, A5 size to Oberfeldwebel Heinrich Burose now a member of 14./Gren.Rgt.67, with three award dates qualifying him for the Wound Badge in Gold but no gold certificate issued, date 28 November 1944 by an unidentified Unit Hauptmann; and a Winter Medal in the East, A5 size, non punch holed, folded once citation to Feldwebel Heinrich Burose in the same unit 14./Gren.Regt 67, date of award 21 February 1944, pencil signature of Colonel and Commander; together with a de-nazified example of the Wound Badge in Silver, good condition (4) £80-£100

A Great War 1914 ‘Western Front’ D.C.M. awarded to Acting Sergeant Trumpeter W. Stone, 12th Lancers, for his gallantry during the operations near Messines, 23 October to 4 November 1914 Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (4485 [sic] A. Sjt: Tptr: W. Stone. 12/Lrs.) light contact marks, very fine £1,000-£1,400 --- One of only 13 D.C.M.s awarded to the 12th Lancers for the Great War. D.C.M. London Gazette 17 December 1914: 4656 Acting Sergeant-Trumpeter A. Stone, 12th Lancers. ‘For coolness, gallantry, and exceptionally good work during the operations of 23 October to 4 November near Messines.’ Arthur Stone attested for the 12th Lancers and served with them as a Sergeant Trumpeter during the Great War on the Western Front from 15 August 1914, being awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal before the year’s end. Subsequently transferring to the Royal Irish Fusiliers with the rank of Warrant Officer Class I, he saw further service post-War in Mesopotamia (entitled to a 1914 Star trio and a General Service Medal with clasps for Iraq and N.W. Persia.)

A Great War 1914 ‘Battle of Armentières’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Corporal W. H. Moreby, 1st Battalion, Leicestershire Regiment, who was also killed in action during the battle, 25 October 1914, and posthumously Mentioned in Despatches Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (6457 Cpl W. H. Moreby. 1/Leic: Regt); 1914 Star, with loose clasp (6457 Cpl W. H. Moreby. 1/Leic: R.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (6457 Cpl. W. H. Moreby Leic. R.) generally good very fine (4) £1,400-£1,800 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 17 December 1917: ‘For gallantry on 25th October in the engagement at the railway crossing near the factory south of Rue de [sic] Bois.’ M.I.D. London Gazette 17 February 1915. William Henry Moreby was born in Braunstone, Leicestershire, and attested for the Leicestershire Regiment at Leicester in August 1902. He advanced to Lance Corporal and transferred to the Army Reserve in March 1910. Moreby served as a Police Constable with the Leeds City Police, and then re-engaged for service with the 1st Battalion of his old regiment and served with them in the French theatre of war from 9 September 1914. Moreby served with ‘C’ Company, 1st Battalion, Leicestershire Regiment during the Battle of Armentières in October 1914. He both distinguished himself, and paid the ultimate sacrifice on the same day, when the Battalion were in action near the Chemical Factory south of Rue du Bois, 25 October 1914. The Regimental History gives the following for the 25/26th October: ‘At 6pm reports were received from O.C. Leicestershire Regiment that hostile shelling had compelled his battalion to evacuate this trench line from just south of the Rue du Bois to Le Quesne, that his men were lying in the open along the railway line and the the enemy’s infantry were massing in the area Le Quesne - Distillery and that he considered their attack imminent. The G.O.C. 16th I.B. and one company of the Buffs proceeded to the railway station, La Houssoie, HQ 1st Leicestershire Regiment, with the object of initiating a counter-attack. From reports on arrival such action was, however, considered impracticable, the enemy was in considerable strength, the night was very dark, and the ground very much broken. The enemy was undoubtedly in occupation of the large Distillery buildings and a group of houses east of the railway crossing south of the station. It was decided that the Leicestershire Regiment should continue to hold their ground immediately south of Rue du Bois, and bend back their line to the railway line about 250 yards off the Rue du Bois cross-roads, and continued the line along a deep ditch bordering the west of the railway to the railway crossing south of the station. At this point the defensive line was to cross the east of the railway along the bank of a shallow cutting about 18 inches deep through which the railway runs to a culvert about 500 yards south...’ The German attack came at dawn on 25 October, and raged against the Leicesters on the railway embarkment around La Houssoie station. Around the level crossing to the south, ‘D’ Company were overwhelmed with about 100 men being taken prisoner. By 9am the British forces had regained their lost trenches, and a bitter hand to hand fight ensued at the level crossing with the Germans engaging heavy artillery. The line was held throughout the day, and the casualties were two Officers wounded, 22 other ranks killed, 68 wounded and 98 missing. Corporal Moreby was amongst those killed in action, and he is commemorated on the Ploegsteert Memorial, Belgium as well as on the Leeds Town Hall Memorial, Yorkshire (a picture of him is also shown on the Regimental website).

A Great War ‘Western Front’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Private W. Bute, 1st/3rd (City of London) Battalion, London Regiment, Territorial Force, who was killed in action on 12 September 1916 Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (1783 Pte. W. Bute. 1/3 Lond: R.-T.F.); 1914-15 Star (1783. Pte. W. Bute, 3-Lond. R.); British War and Victory Medals (1783 Pte W. Bute. 3-Lond. R.) mounted court-style for wear, traces of lacquer, nearly extremely fine (4) £1,200-£1,600 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 30 March 1916: ‘For conspicuous gallantry in helping under very trying circumstances to get the wounded out of a trench which was being bombarded by heavy bombs.’ Wilfred Bute was born in Walthamstow and attested for the 1st/3rd (City of London) Battalion, London Regiment, Territorial Force in August 1914. Serving on the Western Front from 6 January 1915, he was one of two men awarded the D.C.M. for assisting to evacuate casualties on 23 September 1915 following the explosion of an enemy minewerfer bomb in a battery of gas cylinders. Supporting research states that it was the first time that he had experienced gas. He was killed in action almost a year later at Leuze Wood on 12 September 1916; he has no known grave and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial, France. Sold with original cap badge and detailed copied research.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ D.C.M., M.M. group of four awarded to Lance-Corporal W. J. Taylor, 42nd Battalion, Canadian Infantry, who was wounded by gun shot to the left leg on 12 November 1917 Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (192830 Pte. -L.Cpl.- W. J. Taylor. M.M. 42/Can: Inf:); Military Medal, G.V.R. (192830 L.Cpl. W. J. Taylor. 42/Can: Inf:); British War and Victory Medals (192830 L.Cpl W. J. Taylor. 42-Can. Inf.) the first three housed in a fitted leather case, the last loose, traces of verdigris to VM, minor edge bruising, otherwise nearly extremely fine (4) £3,000-£4,000 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 28 March 1918: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He was in charge of a Lewis gun team which took part in the capture of an enemy strong point. He kept his gun in action with great success, and beat off determined counter-attacks by the enemy. He showed splendid courage and determination.’ M.M. London Gazette 16 August 1917. The original Recommendation, dated 29 June 1917, states: ‘In the vicinity of Avion, south west of Lens, during a successful raid on the night of 8-9 June 1917 in which 9 Officers and 420 other ranks of this Battalion took part, Lance-Corporal Taylor, while in charge of a Lewis Gun, did excellent work by engaging and putting out of action an enemy machine gun which threatened to hold up our right flank. After gaining our objective he lost no time in getting his gun into position and opened fire on a party of Germans in front of our position, inflicting heavy casualties. His promptness and disregard of danger saved is many lives.’ William John Taylor was born in Swindon, Wiltshire, on 16 October 1892, and having emigrated to Canada attested for the Canadian Overseas Expeditionary Force at Toronto, Ontario, on 23 September 1915. Initially posted to the 92nd Battalion, he arrived in England on 29 May 1916, and served with the 42nd Battalion during the Great War on the Western Front from 28 August 1916. Awarded both the Military Medal and the Distinguished Conduct Medal, he was wounded by gun shot to the left leg on 12 November 1917, and was admitted to Keighly War Hospital two days later. Returning to Canada in September 1918, he was discharged on 31 October 1918. Sold with a Royal Highlanders cap badge; and copied record of service and other research.

A rare Great War D.C.M. group of three awarded to Battery Sergeant-Major A. J. Mulcahy, 2nd Canadian Motor Machine-Gun Brigade, an original member of the 50-strong Yukon Motor Machine Gun Battery Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (107449 B.S. Mjr. A. J. Mulcahy. 2/Can: M.M.G. Bde.); British War and Victory Medals (107449 W.O. Cl. 2 A. J. Mulcahy, C.M.G. Bde) nearly extremely fine (3) £2,000-£2,600 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 11 March 1920: ‘B.S.M. A. J. Mulcahy, 2nd Bn. M.M.G. Bde. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty at Naves, 10th October, 1918. While holding the bridgehead over the Erclin River he was in charge of four guns, and pushed forward to protect the bridging party. The position was heavily shelled with gas shells, and one shell landed near one of his guns. Though slightly wounded he dragged the gunners out of the cloud, administered first aid, and directed new men to man the guns.’ Yukon Motor Machine Gun Battery At the beginning of the First World War, the Canadian Minister of Militia and Defence, Colonel Sam Hughes accepted offers of financial assistance from several prominent citizens to raise four machine gun units. One of them was the Yukon Motor Machine Gun Battery. It was organised privately by Joseph Whiteside Boyle; better known as ‘Klondike Joe’ Boyle. Originally, it was to be a small force of 50 men with horses and rapid firing guns. Recruiting began in Dawson City where they were known as the "Yukon Boys". They were outfitted in khaki trousers and woollen shirts to match, yellow mackinaws, and stiff brimmed sombreros. Their cap badge consisted of crossed machine guns with a miner's pan on top on which were superimposed the initials "YT" (Yukon Territory). Legend has it that at least the first fifty men to enlist had an actual gold nugget in the ‘pan’. While still in Dawson City, they were given some basic military training and drilled by two R.C.M.P. officers. Boyle finally had them taken to Victoria B.C. where he continued to pay for their upkeep until the Canadian government took over the unit and moved them to Vancouver. By that time, they were listed as a machine gun section to the 2nd Canadian Mounted Rifles. They went overseas to the U.K. with that regiment in May 1915. When in the U.K., the Yukon Battery was amalgamated for a short time with one of the other four units, the Borden Battery. By June 1916, the Yukon's total strength had dwindled to 34 men. It was then sent to the Canadian Machine School as a prelude to being attached to 4th Canadian Infantry Division. In August 1916, having received its complement of Armoured Autocars and other equipment, it was sent to France to join the 4th Division. It fought with 4th Division until 3 December 1916, when it finally joined the other motor machine gun batteries in what was known as 1st Canadian Motor Machine Gun Brigade (1st C.M.M.G.B.). The Brigade fought as machine gunners in all of the major battles that Canadians participated in such as Vimy Ridge and Passchendaele among others. They also supported many different British formations. On 8 June 1918, the Brigade was reorganised with the addition of new units and was split into two brigades, the 1st and 2nd C.M.M.G.B. The Yukon Machine Gun Battery was moved to 2nd C.M.M.G.B. and fought with that unit to the end of the war. Both brigades came into their own during the desperate German offensive of 1918 where they moved throughout the battlefield in their armoured Autocars providing machine gun support wherever required. Sold with copied portrait photograph of Mulcahy wearing medal ribbons and the rare Yukon M.M.G. Battery cap badge.

A good Second War ‘North West Europe 1944’ D.C.M. awarded to Acting Sergeant W. F. Trevis, 179th Field Regiment, Royal Artillery, for extraordinary conduct during the battle for Hill 112 whilst in command of the Observation Posts of his Battery over a period of 12 hours for the most part of which he was under enemy mortar and shell fire Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.VI.R. (1126866 A. Sjt. W. F. Trevis. R.A.); 1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; War Medal 1939-45, the first on its original investiture pin, extremely fine (4) £2,000-£2,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 21st December 1944. Presented personally by Field-Marshal Montgomery on 24 November 1944. The recommendation states: ‘On 9 July 1944, this N.C.O. was acting as O.P.A. to Major Mapp who was commanding the Battery in support of the infantry at Chateau de Fontaigne. Major Mapp was killed in the morning and both O.Ps were deployed and pinned to the ground. Bombardier Trevis at Battalion H.Q. then took command and assumed the Major’s responsibilities, co-ordinated the work of the O.Ps and brought down fire whenever required by the Battalion. The officer who crawled up from the gun area to relieve him was wounded and it was not until 2000 hrs that another officer could be made available. Bombardier Trevis therefore commanded the Battery for a period of twelve hours for the greater part of which he was under enemy mortar and shell fire. During this period it was entirely due to his own efforts that the artillery support for the Battalion did not fail, and the information he passed continuously to the Regiment was of immediate value to the Divisional Artillery and to 214 Infantry Brigade. He did a job which would have been a credit to any Battery Commander.’ Awarded for the battle of Hill 112, which Field-Marshal Rommel considered to be “The most important hill in Normandy, for whoever has control of it has control of all around it” and of which Lieutenant-General Horrocks said, “Hill 112 is the cornerstone of the Normandy Campaign.” William Frederick Trevis of Rye Park, Hoddesdon, ‘joined the Army in September 1941. He was previously vice-chairman of the St Cuthbert Parochial Church Council, and a member of the Men’s Club committee. Since the award [of the D.C.M.] he has been promoted to sergeant.’ (News cutting refers). Sold with substantial background information on the battle for Hill 112.

An outstanding Second War ‘El Alamein 1942’ D.C.M. group of seven awarded to Lance-Corporal H. Sleeth, 1/7th Battalion, Middlesex Regiment, who was several times wounded during the battle for Miteirya Ridge Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.VI.R. (6200387 L. Cpl. H. Sleeth. Midd’x R.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, extremely fine (7) £2,400-£2,800 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 4 May 1943. The original recommendation for the immediate award of the Distinguished Conduct Medal states: ‘North Africa: Battle of Alemein [action of Miteirya Ridge]. On the night of the 23rd October 1942, during the advance, Lance-Corporal Sleeth was hit in the back by a piece of shell casing which knocked him off his feet. Although carrying four belts of ammunition and a box of spare parts, he carried on for two further miles and successfully delivered his load to the gun line. The Platoon was shooting during the whole of the following morning and came under mortar fire, Lance-Corporal Sleeth was again hit, this time in the left arm but refused attention. That evening the Platoon accompanied two Companies of the 5th/7th Battalion Gordon Highlanders which went forward to reach the final object. During the following day, October 25th, the Platoon was under heavy mortar and shell fire and Lance-Corporal Sleeth was hit once more in the left arm. By October 26th the position was cut off and the Platoon had no food or water and very little ammunition. The wireless was out of order and no contact could be made to the rear, Lance-Corporal Sleeth volunteered to go back and bring up supplies by carrier. He set off in the afternoon through minefields and over ground swept by shell and Machine Gun fire and successfully reached Company H.Q. He returned at first light to the position with supplies of food, water and ammunition. He was subsequently injured by a grenade explosion and had to be evacuated. The conduct of this N.C.O. throughout the complete operation was of a very high order. His steadfastness under fire and the calm and determined manner in which he carried out his duties in spite of being wounded several times, were an inspiration to the remainder of his Platoon.’

A scarce Second War 1944 ‘Kohima operations’ D.C.M. group of six awarded to Warrant Officer Class 2 H. Beckett, York and Lancaster Regiment, attached 2nd Battalion, The West Yorkshire Regiment, for his gallantry on multiple occasions during the clearing and pursuit of the Japanese from defensive positions along the Kohima-Imphal Road, May - August 1944 Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.VI.R. (3658104 A.W.O. Cl. 2. H. Beckett. Y. & L. R.) unit partially officially corrected; 1939-45 Star; Burma Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted for wear by Spink & Son, lightly cleaned, generally very fine or better (6) £3,000-£4,000 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 28 June 1945. The original recommendation states: ‘Period 16 May to 15 August 1944. Throughout this period in the Imphal Area Sergeant Beckett has been in command of a platoon and has distinguished himself in every action which his Coy has fought. His dogged courage and skilful leadership have been most noticeable on all occasions. As an example, during an attack on a Japanese position on the Kohima Road his platoon was assigned the task of going ahead of the tanks and covering the party searching the road for anti-tank mines. The platoon immediately came under effective small arms fire but with great determination pursued their task and drove a deep wedge into the enemy’s position, inflicting a number of casualties. This enabled the mine lifters to complete their task and thus allow the tanks to get up onto the feature and complete the destruction of the enemy. The operation was one which called for grit and skilful leadership, both qualities which Sergeant Beckett never fails to display in the highest degree.’ Harold Beckett was a native of Longsight, Lancashire. He served with the York and Lancaster Regiment during the Second War, and was attached to the 2nd Battalion, The West Yorkshire Regiment as part of the 9th Indian Infantry Brigade for service during the Imphal and Kohima operations. Beckett was involved, as British and Indian troops pursued the retreating Japanese down and through hard fought defensive positions on the Kohima-Imphal road. This was a month of bitter hand to hand fighting, starting on 16 May 1944 and ending on 22 June when British and Indian troops from Kohima and Imphal met at Milestone 109, this ending the Siege of Imphal.

A King’s Police Medal awarded to Chief Constable Victor Bosanquet, Monmouthshire Constabulary King’s Police Medal, G.V.R., 1st issue (Ch. Const. V. F. Bosanquet. Monmouthshire Constab.) small edge bruise, otherwise good very fine £400-£500 --- K.P.M. London Gazette 1 January 1923: ‘Victor Foulcrand Bosanquet, Chief Constable, Monmouthshire Constabulary.’ The recommendation states: ‘Bosanquet, Victor F., Chief Constable of Monmouthshire since 1894 (28 years). He has a very difficult County and runs it well. He is one of the Chief Constables who is prepared to take a strong line of his own.’ In February 1929, charges were made against the Monmouthshire Police by some of the Labour members of the Monmouthshire Standing Joint Committee at Newport, after a disturbance at Nine Mile Point Colliery, at which the police were alleged to have made a ‘most callous, vicious and brutal charge’ against a civilian population. Responding to these charges the ‘Chief Constable (Mr Victor Bosanquet) denied emphatically that women were struck, or that the police were under the influence of drink. He said that when the police, about 50 in number, escorted the working miners to the railway station and to places outside the district they were surrounded by a hostile mob. Some of those present shouted to the police “Dirty swine,” “Throw them in the river,” and began to throw stones at them, with the result that one policeman was struck on the head and another injured on the leg. A charge, he continued, should be short, sharp and decisive, and in this case it was.Had he been present he would have ordered the charge himself.’ Chief Constable Bosanquet died on 31 August 1936, a few minutes after his car struck a telegraph pole at Skenfrith, Abergavenny. The Times reported on the following day: ‘Mr Bosanquet, who was 72, is believed to have had a seizure. The car struck the pole and turned over on its side. Mr Bosanquet was pulled through the sliding roof by a police sergeant who was accompanying him and died on the road.’ Sold with copied research including recommendation and news cuttings.

A Great War ‘Persian Gulf’ D.S.M. group of three awarded to Private F. W. Rayner, Royal Marine Light Infantry, for gallantry in action with H.M.S. Juno’s landing party at Dilwar in August 1915 against the Tangistani Tribe Distinguished Service Medal, G.V.R. (CH.19271. Pte. F. W. Rayner, R.M.L.I. H.M.S. Juno.); British War and Victory Medals (CH.192710 Pte. F. Y. Rayner. R.M.L.I.) the Victory Medal officially re-impressed, overall contact marks, otherwise good fine and better (3) £900-£1,200 --- D.S.M. London Gazette 19 November 1915. The recommendation submitted by Captain Carpenter, R.M.L.I., states: ‘Frederick William Rayner, R.M.L.I. Chatham Division “H” Company (H.M.S. Juno) Dilwar 14 August 1915. During the retirement in the action of 14 August 1915, it was reported to me that two wounded men of R.M.L.I. had been accidentally left in the palm grove we had evacuated and that Sergeant Wall and Private Rayner were alone standing by them holding the enemy off. I called for volunteers to go and assist these men. Captain S. E. Althrop, 96th Berar Infantry and Private Ramsay, R.M.L.I., immediately volunteered and returned a distance of 300 yards in the face of heavy fire from a closely advancing enemy and between them all brought back the two wounded men.’ (L/MIL/17/15/98/27 and ADM 137/1151/30 Tangistan Operations August 1915 refer) F. W. Rayner was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for service in action with H.M.S. Juno’s landing party at Dilwar in August 1915 against the Tangistani Tribe who had been incited by Herr Wassmuss, the former German Consul at Bushire. On 12 July they had raided the town, killing two British officers and several sepoys, and wounding others. Rayner was serving in Juno’s machine gun section of 11 petty officers and men, with Captain Carpenter, R.M.L.I., in command. Carpenter and two other Naval officers received the D.S.C. for this action in which machine-guns saw significant action during the several advances and withdrawals that took place. Note: Also entitled to 1914-15 Star.

A scarce Great War 1917 ‘Airship Coxswain’s’ D.S.M. group of six awarded to Warrant Officer Class 2, later Flying Officer, F. Miller, Royal Naval Air Service and Royal Air Force, present in the aftermath of the Messina Earthquake disaster, he later flew DH9A’s with 55 Squadron during operations in Kurdistan Distinguished Service Medal, G.V.R. (223410 F. Miller, C.P.O. Mech. R.N.A.S. 1917.); 1914 Star, with clasp (223410. F. Miller, A.M. 1 GR. R.N.A.S.); British War and Victory Medals (W.O. 2 F. Miller. R.N.A.S.); General Service 1918-62, 1 clasp, Kurdistan (F/O. F. Miller. R.A.F.) surname officially corrected; Italy, Kingdom, Messina Earthquake Medal 1908, silver, mounted on card for display, last with edge bruising, remainder generally very fine or better (6) £2,000-£2,400 --- D.S.M. London Gazette 1 May 1918: ‘For zeal and devotion to duty during the period 1 July - 31 December, 1917.’ Fred Miller was born in Cheshire in July 1887. He joined the Royal Navy as a Boy 2nd Class in November 1902, and Miller transferred to Air Service duties as a Coxswain Airships, 23 October 1913. He advanced to Air Mechanic 1 in July 1914, and to Petty Officer Mechanic in August 1915. Postings included to H.M.A.S. Pembroke III, H.M.A.S. President II, Killingnorth, Inchmore and Barrow Airship Station. Miller’s service record shows him as a Balloon Pilot and Airship Coxswain, and he advanced to Warrant Officer Class 2 in December 1917. Miller was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the Royal Air Force in April 1918, and subsequently qualified as a fixed wing pilot flying DH9A’s with 55 Squadron from Hinaidi during operations in Kurdistan. Having advanced to Flying Officer, Miller retired in 1932. He re-engaged for service during the Second War, and died in June 1946. Miller wore the Messina Earthquake Medal throughout his entire service, and was present in H.M.S. Aboukir after the disaster. The Admiralty, however, ruled against the ship being eligible for the medal. It is clear that Aboukir’s role in the Messina affair was no more than that of a royal yacht, taking HRH The Duke of Connaught from Malta to the scene of the disaster. However, there were other ships and personnel who also did nothing in the way of rescue and who were permitted to accept the award. No doubt Miller, along with many others felt aggrieved and obtained a medal and wore it accordingly. Thus adding to what was already a rare group.

An unusual Second War ‘Invasion of the South of France’, Operation Dragoon D.S.M. group of six awarded to Petty Officer Rigger J. J. Wright, Royal Navy, a Fleet Salvage crane driver from H.M.S. Byrsa who rescued two cranes under close range enemy mortar fire at Toulon Docks Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (P.O. Rigger J. J. Wright. C/JX. 583600) mounted on original investiture pin; 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; France and Germany Star; War Medal 1939-45, extremely fine (6) £1,400-£1,800 --- D.S.M. London Gazette 27 March 1945: ‘For distinguished service and gallantry during the invasion of the South of France - Petty Officer John Joseph Wright, C/JX. 583600.’ The original recommendation states: ‘On 24 August 1944 in a narrow street approaching Toulon docks two mobile 15 ton cranes in Wright’s charge became the target of close range enemy mortar fire. One crane was immediately hit, but Wright first turned the undamaged crane and then in full view of the enemy ran back and turned the other and brought it to safety. His outstanding courage and coolness undoubtedly saved these valuable and irreplaceable pieces of equipment.’ Description of action on recommendation dated 6 December 1944: ‘Operation “Dragoon”. Moving up of advanced salvage parties and equipment from the landing beaches to points of Toulon and Marseilles.’ John Joseph Wright was a skilled mechanic who volunteered and joined the Royal Army Service Corps at Chatham on 25 October 1939, and was sent as a driver to Egypt on 12 November 1939, at Abbassie Barracks, Heliopolis. He was driver to Generals Wilson, Stone, O’Connor and Sir James Marshall Cornwall and served in Egypt, Corsica, Italy, Southern France, Belgium and Germany. On 7 December 1942 he volunteered for the Royal Navy and was accepted. He was posted to the Royal Navy Fleet Salvage branch and was in a party of 30 Officers and men of H.M.S. Byrsa during the invasion of Southern France, holding the rank Petty Officer Rigger (crane driver). There were two of these 15 ton vehicles, the other driven by his brother. After the landings they were held up by a German Fortress at St. Tropez and were under heavy mortar fire. His brother was in trouble with his crane, so he drove to him and let him drive his vehicle, whilst under fire he got the other one started. He picked up two men from the Salvage Fleet, who were sheltering from mortar shells, and took them to safety. He finished his service on H.M.S. Lynx. After the war he lived at his home town of Strood, Rochester, and worked for some time at Chatham Dockyard. Sold with some copied research.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. and Second Award Bar group of four awarded to Sergeant C. E. Ranner, “F” Special (Cylinder) Company, Special Brigade, Royal Engineers, who was involved in the first British gas attack at the battle of Loos Military Medal, G.V.R., with Second Award Bar (113424 Sjt: C. E. Ranner. ‘F’ Spec: Coy. R.E.); 1914-15 Star (113424 Cpl. C. E. Ranner, R.E.); British War and Victory Medals (113424 Sjt. C. E. Ranner. R.E.) mounted for display, extremely fine (4) £800-£1,000 --- M.M. London Gazette 21 August 1917. M.M. Second Award Bar London Gazette 23 February 1918. Charles E. Ranner originally served as Private No. 18260, Liverpool Regiment before transferring to one of the new specialist gas companies of the Royal Engineers. After training in England, he served in France from 14 September 1915, taking part shortly afterwards in the first British gas attack at the battle of Loos, when much of the gas was blown back into the faces of the British troops. Ranner is mentioned in a short description of the action by gas corporal Ronald Purves: ‘The bombardment was pretty hellish, absolutely indescribable. At 5:40 a.m. Sergt. Reilly came along and gave the order to let off the gas at 5:50 a.m., and we did. Leaks of Chlorine gas came out at the joints, but after some struggling got things going. Mac turned on the first one as I threw out the pipe, & then did nothing. So went at it as best I could, choking, coughing, half-blinded, and feeling as if the last moments had come. It’s impossible to put any of the sensations on paper; but I shall not forget it after I get home. At my 6th or 7th cylinder, Rayner [sic] came along and told me to shut off because our own men were being gassed. My own bit was thick with gas, and I couldn’t see except in a blink or two. A hail of shells, both British and German, were landing all around, and a rattle of machine guns was everywhere.’ “F” Special (Cylinder) Company was one of the special units of the Royal Engineers established to use chemical weapons after Chlorine Gas was first used on the Western Front by the Germans against French units in the Ypres Salient in 1915. Volunteers with a knowledge of chemistry were sought among universities and colleges at home, as well as from the ranks of the BEF, with immediate promotion to corporal – chemist corporal. A suitable base was found at Helfaut, a village four or five miles due south of St Omer (where GHQ was located at the time), where it remained as the depot for the rest of the war. At first two Special Companies were formed but they had been increased to four by the time the Loos offensive opened on 25 September 1915. In 1916 the four companies were expanded into the ‘Special Brigade’ consisting of 16 ‘Cylinder’ companies, one ‘Projector’ company (flame thrower) and four ‘Mortar’ companies, some 6,000 officers and men. This organisation remained unchanged to the end of the war.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. group of three awarded to Sergeant D. A. Gordon, Royal Garrison Artillery, who later served as a Pilot Officer with the Royal Air Force during the Second World War, and was sometime Mayor of Gwelo, Southern Rhodesia Military Medal, G.V.R. (171226 Bmbr: D. A. Gordon. 157/Sge: By: R.G.A.); British War and Victory Medals (171226 Cpl. D. A. Gordon. R.A.) nearly extremely fine (3) £300-£400 --- M.M. London Gazette 9 October 1918. Douglas Arthur Gordon, a native of Hoylake, Cheshire, was born in 1884 and attested for the Royal Garrison Artillery on 10 December 1915, having previously served with the King Edward’s Horse. Called up on 7 July 1917, he served as a gun layer with the 157th Siege Battery during the Great War on the Western Front from 20 November 1917, was twice wounded (newspaper article with lot refers), and was advanced Sergeant. For his services during the Great War he was awarded the Military Medal. Gordon served with the Royal Air Force Voluntary Reserve during the Second World War as a Pilot Officer (temporary Squadron Leader) with a training unit, and resigned his commission in September 1947. Emigrating to Southern Rhodesia the following year, he served as Mayor of Gwelo, the fourth largest town in Southern Rhodesia, from 1953 to 1955. Sold with copied service papers and other research, including various photographic images of the recipient, in both R.G.A. and R.A.F.V.R. uniforms, and also in civilian and Mayoral dress.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. group of six awarded to Lieutenant R. S. Lane, Royal Engineers Military Medal, G.V.R. (65630 Sjt: R. S. Lane. 126/F. Coy. R.E.); 1914-15 Star (65630 Cpl. R. S. Lane. R.E.); British War and Victory Medals (2. Lieut. R. S. Lane.); Defence Medal; Special Constabulary Long Service Medal, G.VI.R., 1st issue (Reginald S. Lane) light contact marks, good very fine (6) £360-£440 --- M.M. London Gazette 6 January 1917. Reginald Surrey Lane was born at Godshill, Isle of Wight, on 8 December 1891 and attested for the Royal Engineers on 26 January 1915. Advanced Corporal on 7 July, he served with the 126th Field Company during the Great War on the Western Front from 12 September 1915, and was promoted Sergeant on 29 March 1916. Awarded the Military Medal, most likely for operations on the Somme, he returned to the United Kingdom to attend an Officer Cadet course on 26 August 1917, and was commissioned Second Lieutenant on 15 December 1917. In 1920 he is listed as a Lieutenant in Palestine with the 42nd Army Troops Company, Royal Engineers. He served during the Second World War with the Special Constabulary on the Isle of Wight, and died in June 1972. Sold with copied research.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. group of four awarded to Private G. H. Young, 9th Battalion, Leicestershire Regiment, who was killed in action at the battle of Fontaine on 3 May 1917 Military Medal, G.V.R. (9-12900 Pte. G. H. Young. 9/Leic: R.); 1914-15 Star (12900 Pte. G. H. Young. Leic: R.); British War and Victory Medals (12900 Cpl. G. H. Young. Leic. R.) together with Memorial Plaque (George Herbert Young) and a 14k gold plated open-faced keyless watch, the inner lid of the case inscribed ‘Presented to Corporal G. H. Young by his Bakestone Moor admirers on winning the Military Medal’, good very fine (6) £600-£800 --- M.M. London Gazette 20 October 1916. George Herbert Young landed in France with the 9th Battalion, Leicestershire Regiment, on 29 July 1915. He was killed in action on 3 May 1917 at the battle of Fontaine, aged 22, and is commemorated by name on the Arras Memorial. He was the son of Mr and Mrs George Young, of 6, Wandsworth Terrace, Bakestone Moor, Whitwell, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire. Sold with a gilt double-sided locket with small photograph of the recipient and his sister or loved one.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. group of four awarded to Private J. Taylor, Hampshire Regiment Military Medal, G.V.R. (16416 Pte. J. Taylor. 14/Hants: R.); 1914-15 Star (16416. Pte. J. Taylor. Hamps. R.); British War and Victory Medals (16416. Pte. J. Taylor. Hamps. R.) mounted court-style for wear, minor edge bruising and contact marks, very fine (4) £300-£400 --- M.M. London Gazette 18 July 1917. John Taylor attested for the Hampshire Regiment and served with the 14th Battalion during the Great War on the Western Front from 3 June 1915. Awarded the Military Medal, he subsequently transferred to the Shropshire Light Infantry, and was discharged Class ‘Z’ Reserve on 25 February 1919. Sold with copied Medal Index Cards.

A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. awarded to Private C. N. Alexander, 21st (Yeoman Rifles) Battalion, King’s Royal Rifle Corps Military Medal, G.V.R. (C-12980 Pte C. N. Alexander. 21/K.R.R.C.) nearly extremely fine £280-£340 --- M.M. London Gazette 9 December 1916. Charles Norman Alexander, a Poulty Farmer, from Shipley, Yorkshire, where he was born in 1883, attested for the King’s Royal Rifle Corps on 11 November 1915. He served in the Great War, first on the Western Front, where he was awarded the Military Medal, before later service in Italy. He was discharged due to sickness on 10 February 1919 and awarded a Silver War Badge. Sold with copy paperwork including his Medal Index Card, his entry on the Silver War Badge roll and medical records.

A Great War M.M. and Belgian Croix de Guerre pair awarded to Sergeant T. Moore, North Staffordshire Regiment Military Medal, G.V.R. (13400 Sjt: T. Moore. 4/N. Staff: R.); Belgium, Kingdom, Croix de Guerre, A.I.R., bronze, edge bruising to first, generally very fine (2) £240-£280 --- M.M. London Gazette 13 March 1918. Belgian Croix de Guerre London Gazette 12 July 1918. Thomas Moore attested for the North Staffordshire Regiment and served with the 4th Battalion during the Great War on the Western Front from 28 July 1915. As well as receiving the Military Medal and the Belgian Croix de Guerre, he was also awarded a Silver War Badge.

A Great War ‘Western Front 1917’ M.M. group of three awarded to Gunner G. A. Kelly, 2nd Divisional Artillery Column, Canadian Field Artillery, attached 2nd Divisional Signal Company Military Medal, G.V.R. (427 Gnr: G. A. Kelly. 2/C.D.A. Can: F.A.); British War and Victory Medals (427 Bmbr. G. A. Kelly. C.F.A.) mounted as worn with ribbon only for 1914-15 Star, toned, good very fine (3) £260-£300 --- M.M. London Gazette 18 July 1917: The original recommendation states: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty at Farbus during the operations of 3-9 May 1917. When acting as linesman with Sapper W. B. Wheeler from forward report centre to Brigades during the operations of 3-9 May, these linesmen continued to repair lines, crossing through several enemy barrages, and remained on duty during nights when enemy continued to shell area with gas shells. These two linesmen by their great courage were largely instrumental in keeping communications open between the Brigades and Divisional Artillery Headquarters.’ George Alfred Kelly was born at Douglas, Isle of Man, on 14 February 1890. He was married and living at McDermott Avenue, Winnipeg, when he enlisted there for the C.E.F. on 21 January 1915. He served in France with the Canadian Field Artillery from 17 September 1915, and was discharged at Toronto on 31 May 1919. Sold with copied attestation and discharge papers.

The remarkable and rare Second War 1942 ‘escape and evasion’ M.M., and 1944 ‘North West Europe’ Second Award Bar group of seven awarded to Sergeant J. D. Coutts, No. 52 Commando and York and Lancaster Regiment. Coutts, fighting as part of ‘D’ Battalion, ‘Layforce’, was taken prisoner of war at the fall of Crete, 1 June 1941. Having been transported to mainland Greece, he effected his escape from a German POW camp via a sewer - twice getting stuck along the narrow route during the process. Evading capture with two other escapees, Coutts lost both of his comrades to malaria and exhaustion. Despite this, and by sheer bloody determination he carried on and made four attempts via boat to leave Greece for Turkey. Meeting up with other escapees along the way, including Lieutenant W. B. Thomas who went on to publish his memoirs about the eventual escape, Coutts finally made it in May 1942. He had numerous brushes with German patrols, a seaplane, and an E-boat just as Turkey loomed into sight. The war was not done with him, however, and he went on to distinguish himself with the Hallamshire Battalion in Normandy, June - July 1944. In particular during the attack on the fortified position at Barbee Farm, near Vendes, 16 July 1944, when he was in action with both a Bren Gun and a Mortar, personally accounting for a large number of enemy troops despite being wounded himself Military Medal, G.VI.R., with Second Award Bar (4746052 Cpl. J. D. Coutts. Y. & L. R.); General Service 1918-62, 1 clasp, Palestine (4746052 Pte. J. D. Coutts. Y. & L. R.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted for wear, generally very fine or better (7) £8,000-£12,000 --- M.M. London Gazette 24 September 1942. The original recommendation states: ‘Corporal Coutts was captured at Sphakia on 1 June 1941, moved to Maleme and thence to Salonika. There were escapes nearly every day. The morning after a successful escape would be spent by the remainder on parade in the sun. Those caught escaping would not be seen again. One night the Germans decided to prevent any escapes by crowding prisoners into the centre of the camp. This suited the plans that Corporal Coutts and others had made that afternoon. They had noticed the opening of a sewer in the centre of the camp and had seen that it was wide enough for a man to crawl through. A Greek workman promised to take off the lid of another opening several hundred yards from the camp as soon as it was dark. They blocked the pipe from the latrines to the sewer and turned on all the taps there and in the wash-house and left them on all afternoon. The fact that all the prisoners of war had been pushed by the sentries to the centre of the camp provided an excuse for their presence by the sewer opening, and Coutts and seven others climbed down and crawled along. It took them two hours. Corporal Coutts is broadly built and twice stuck in particularly narrow spots. The artificial washing down they had given it made a considerable difference to the conditions, but even so two of them passed out as soon as they reached the opening and fresh air. They waited till they came round and then split up into parties of two and three. Corporal Coutts joined Corporal Ward and Trooper Nicholas. They knocked at the door of a house and were taken in. From there they gradually made their way down to Agion Oros peninsula, going north first to Langadas and then down through Evangelismos and Zagliveri receiving food and shelter wherever they stopped. Trooper Nicholas got malaria badly and through weakness and lack of medical attention died on 7 October 1941. Corporals Coutts and Ward stole a boat near Smerna and made for Imbros. Ten miles away bad weather forced them to go back. The effort was too much for Ward who died on 10 November 1941. Corporal Coutts spent most of the winter in a hut he built on the hills. With spring his strength began to return and he joined up with Lieutenant Thomas and Corporal Peacock in April. On 5 April they got a boat at Klephttikon and sailed for Imbros. Bad weather forced them to go back. On 16 April they tried again from Nea Skete, but had to return as round the point a strong light was flashed on them and they heard voices. They were joined by 2 Cypriots and a Greek officer on 2 May 1942 and on the same day Private Theodoros Georgiou, No. 4230, 232 Company, R.A.S.C., who has been recommended for a D.C.M., reached them. On 4 May 1942 they left with him and arrived at Turkey on 6 May 1942. Corporal Coutts not only did an excellent escape, but in spite of the death of his two companions - which must have been hard blows to bear - his frustrated attempt to reach Turkey and his own personal weakness, he struggled on in Greece alone. Finally with L/Cpl. Peacock and Lt. Thomas he made two more attempts to reach Turkey and only just failed owing to bad weather. He escaped thanks to sheer dogged courage.’ M.M. Second Award Bar London Gazette 21 December 1944. The original recommendation (for a D.C.M.) states: ‘On 16 July 1944 Sergeant Coutts was commanding a platoon of a company ordered to reinforce Barbee Farm. His platoon HQ was twice attacked with grenades, and on both occasions he beat off the attack with his own grenades. Almost immediately afterwards he killed four of the enemy with a Bren Gun as they attempted to infiltrate into his platoon positions. Later, during the action when the members of his posts were killed or wounded and the post was occupied by the enemy, who were able to infiltrate another platoon position, he personally dealt with them with a 2 inch mortar. During the day the position was under direct fire from enemy riflemen and LMGs, and was frequently mortared. Quite regardless of his own personal safety Sergeant Coutts moved to and fro in platoon position, organising its defence and the evacuation of wounded, and encouraging his men. When the company was ordered to evacuate Barbee Farm Sjt. Coutts platoon was given the task of protecting the left flank. The Bren group detailed by him to cover his own flank was under fire from three directions. He remained with this gun and was wounded. He refused to leave his position until his platoon was clear from Barbee Farm. Throughout the day Sergenat Coutts displayed complete disregard for his personal safety and set an example of leadership and fighting spirit of the highest order.’ John Davie Coutts served with the York and Lancaster Regiment in Palestine, and during the initial stages of the Second World War. He volunteered for service with No. 52 Commando, which was formed in the Middle East. In February 1941 the latter amalgamated with other commando units to form ‘Layforce’, under the command of Colonel R. Laycock. No. 52 Commando formed part of ‘D’ Battalion, and as such fought during the Battle of Crete, 20 May - 1 June 1941. Coutts was taken prisoner of war by the Germans at the fall of Crete, 1 June 1941. He was transported to a prisoner of war camp in Greece, and from here successfully escaped (see recommendation above). One of the men whom he finally escaped with was Lieutenant W. B. Thomas, and the latter went on to publish his memoirs called Dare To Be Free. Coutts, or ‘Coote’ as he is referred to, features extensively in the book from the point at which they met in April 1942: ‘Well, it’s certainly nice to be able to speak English again,’ said the tall, fair lad as he came in the door, holding his hand out to me in greeting. ‘My name is John, Sergeant John Coote, of the Middle East Commandos, and I am very glad to meet you, I’m sure!’ I [Thomas] i...

A fine Second War 1944 ‘Battle of Admin Box’ M.M. awarded to Sapper D. H. P. Flatman, 55th Observation Squadron, Royal Engineers, an explosives expert, whose gallantry and behind the lines ‘specialist’ work, was also recognised when attached to No. 44 Commando, Royal Marines for Operation Screwdriver - the amphibious landing and attack at Alethangyaw in March 1944 Military Medal, G.VI.R. (1945587 Spr. D. H. P. Flatman, R.E.) good very fine £3,000-£4,000 --- 1 of 9 M.M.’s awarded to the Royal Engineers for services in the Burma theatre of operations. M.M. London Gazette 8 February 1945. The original recommendation states: ‘In Arakan. a) On 7 February when 7 Div HQ had been overrun and stragglers were coming back, helped by his cheerfulness to restore confidence at a critical time and helped to form the first defence positions East of the Admin Box. b) On 8 February he went out with other volunteers into No Man’s Land and helped to drive back some 30 heavy bridging and workshop vehicles, although in full view of the enemy and although the area was under mortar fire. c) On 13 February when during an enemy raid on the Admin Box some 16 vehicles were set on fire, he was prominent in helping to extinguish flames. d) During the whole period 7-27 February he continued to encourage others by his cheerfulness and courage, although often under fire from enemy small arms and shells. e) During the period 9-16 March he was attached to 44 R.M. Commando. He again set a fine example while operating behind the Japanese lines and was responsible, with one other BOR, for covering a move the commando, by effects, in the Alethangyan area. f) Since that period he has taken part in numerous patrols against the enemy and has always set a fine example of cheerfulness and courage.’ David Flatman served with the 55th Observation Squadron, Royal Engineers during the Second War. He was attached to Major-General Frank Messervy’s 7th Division HQ when it was overrun by vastly superior Japanese forces, 7 February 1944, and Flatman subsequently distinguished himself during the Battle of Admin Box. After taking part in the epic three week siege of Admin Box, Flatman and one other man from his unit were attached to No. 44 Commando, Royal Marines for the raid on Alethangyan (Operation Screwdriver) in March 1944. The latter landed at Alethangyaw with the task of taking the town as the essential prerequisite for the rest of the 3rd Special Service Brigade to pass through it and advance into the surrounding hills to engage the Japanese. The landing was resisted fiercely by the fire of emplaced machine guns and snipers, and for the next 48 hours 44 Commando was involved in a succession of running battles with the Japanese and also carried out a reconnaissance of the surrounding hills. The undertaking claimed some 40 to 50 Japanese dead for the loss of four commandos declared missing believed dead. Flatman took part in the amphibious landing, and subsequent attack, with his role being described in the unit report as thus: ‘Two other ranks of 55th Observation Squadron were attached to 44 (RM) Commando... and remained with the Unit throughout the operation. Their deception devices were used with success on two occasions. I cannot speak too highly of the manner in which these ranks carried out their duties. Not only were they obviously efficient at their specialist work but they showed a fine example of energy and determination to all with whom they came in contact with.’

A rare Second War ‘Sudan 1941’ M.M. group of four awarded to Lance-Corporal F. W. Fretwell, West Yorkshire Regiment, who led a bayonet charge on the enemy position during the raid on J. Defeis for which he was originally recommended for the D.C.M.; he was killed in action in Libya the following year Military Medal, G.VI.R. (4534213 A/Cpl. F. W. Fretwell, W. York R.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; War Medal 1939-45, extremely fine (4) £1,400-£1,800 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 18 July 1941. The recommendation, originally for the award of the Distinguished Conduct Medal, states: ‘Raid on J. Defeis [Sudan] on the 10 January 1941. Lance-Corporal Fretwell was commanding a Section in the above raid. They were held up by machine-gun fire at close range, whereupon Lance-Corporal Fretwell dashed forward and silenced the gun with a grenade. On meeting further opposition, Lance-Corporal Fretwell led a bayonet charge on the enemy position, which put them to flight. Throughout the raid, this N.C.O. displayed great coolness and courage.’ Frederick William Fretwell was killed in action on 5 June 1942 in Libya. He was aged 27 years, the son of T. E. Fretwell, Esq., of Fairweather Green, Bradford, Yorkshire, and is buried in the Knightsbridge War Cemetery, Acroma, Libya.

A Second War ‘North West Europe 1945’ M.M. group of five awarded to Private T. A. Jarvis, 5th Battalion, King’s Own Scottish Borderers, for gallantry during the fighting in Waldfeucht in January 1945; he was killed in action on 8 April 1945, east of the River Ems, near Bremen Military Medal, G.VI.R. (14420487 Pte. T. A. Jarvis. K.O.S.B.); 1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted for display, nearly extremely fine (5) £1,400-£1,800 --- M.M. London Gazette 12 April 1945. The recommendation states: ‘During the fighting in Waldfeucht on 21 January 1945, the platoon to which this soldier belongs was holding a small block of houses when the enemy attacked strongly and appeared to be making good headway. Private Jarvis, on two separate occasions ran out into the streets, in the face of considerable small arms fire, and threw grenades into the party of advancing enemy. On both occasions his action completely disorganised the enemy’s advance and allowed his platoon to maintain its position intact throughout a day during which its defended area was surrounded for several hours. Private Jarvis, by his complete disregard for personal safety, was an inspiration to the whole of his platoon and he contributed largely to the successful outcome of the action fought all day by his company which was completely cut off from the rest of the Battalion.’ Four days before he was gazetted for the award of the Military Medal he was killed in action on 8 April 1945, engaged with retreating German Paratroopers, East of the river Ems, near Bremen. Thomas Adam Jarvis was born in Liverpool circa 1926, the son of Thomas Jarvis Esq. He was buried in the Sage War Cemetery, Oldenburg. The 4th and 5th battalions KOSB found themselves in the Low Countries in the autumn of 1944, taking part in the strongly contested assault landings on Walcheren Island, at the mouth of the Scheldt. They then fought through into Germany taking a notable part in operation Blackcock and also taking part in the capture of Bremen. Battle of Forrest Damp At Roermond two rivers join, the Maas and the Roer. In 1945 this was the tip of an area called the Roer Triangle, where the two rivers formed the left and right sides of the triangle. On 14 January the British launched operation Blackcock to clear this area on the Holland-German border; by the time the operation was completed some two weeks later, it would have seen some truly fierce fighting. At around 0300, on 21 January 1945, the 5th Battalion, Kings Own Scottish Borderers moved out. Their objective was the German town of Waldfeucht. This was winter in central Europe so it was bitterly cold, with three inches of snow on the ground. The 5th KOSB had a company of men leading the way, while the rest of the force moved either in Kangaroo's or carriers. There were some Shermans from the 13/18th Hussars along for the operation as well. The lead company found a few mines, which it removed, however little other resistance was encountered. Soon the force had seized the town, which was deserted, with no German forces in place. The population would emerge from their cellars briefly and kept asking about what time it was, or were glancing nervously at time pieces. From this behaviour the British concluded that a German attack was imminent, and they thought first light was the most likely time for this. In a rush the battalion began to get ready for action. Two six pounders were brought forward to cover the north and west sides of the town. After they had been unlimbered and roughly sited, work began to dig the guns in. This was severely hampered by the frozen ground. No real progress had been made on these fighting pits when the first rays of sunlight appeared at dawn, filtering through the mist. The spreading light revealed several large box shapes lurching through the mist, towards the town. It was a full-blown German counter attack, fifteen assault guns led by two Tigers from Schwere Panzer-Abteilung 301, with infantry from either the 175th or 183rd infantry. The British asked for their Shermans to engage the Tigers, who were sitting targets out in the open. The British tanks refused to show themselves, knowing what the outcome would be, while the two 6-pounders, still exposed in the open began to fire. A blazing fire-fight soon ensued and, slowly, one by one, the crews of the guns were killed or wounded. At one gun Private Archibald Moore, who was acting as a loader, stepped forward and took over when the gun commander was wounded. With small arms rounds sparkling off the gun shield Private Moore directed his gun against one of the Tigers. The anti-tank battery's commanding officer, Captain Robert Hunter, took control of the other gun. Hunter's first shot stopped the Tiger by wrecking its tracks and he continued to pour fire into the tank until it burned. By now the Germans were about 100 yards away from the two 6-pounders pouring small arms fire and grenades at them. Captain Hunter was wounded by this storm of fire. By now there were only five men serving both guns, one of which was the wounded Captain Hunter. Together, both guns turned their attention on the last remaining Tiger and began to fire as fast as they could. Soon it too began to burn. Private Moore then grabbed a Bren gun from beside a dead soldier and opened fire upon the nearby infantry and the fleeing Tiger crew. On the east side, at the same time, another Tiger had launched an attack with supporting infantry. Here there were no plucky 6-pounders to stop the beast. Four Shermans were destroyed trying to stop it, which might account for the reluctance of the tank commanders to engage the pair of Tigers. Bitter fighting ensued as the Germans reached the outskirts of the town and began to push through. The Tiger, as it ground down the street, blasting into buildings at point blank range, ran into two men, a platoon commander named Gideon Scott and his PIAT gunner Private Kirkpatrick. The first round failed to detonate and bounced off the Tiger’s armour. Scott began to reload the PIAT. Another round was fired at the Tiger but missed. The shots had alerted the Tiger crew to the danger, and a hail of gunfire was directed towards the British defenders position. Scott was wounded in the hand. Scott had been born with deformities in both hands which had nearly prevented him from enlisting in 1939, until he challenged the recruiters to allow him to fire a rifle, which they were concerned he would have been unable to handle. Scott had shot in competitions for his college at Bisley and was quite a proficient shot. Having proven himself able to shoot he was enlisted. As they reloaded for a third shot, Scott saw a wounded soldier lying directly in the path of the giant Tiger, and who would soon be crushed by the 70 tons of tank. Scott leapt up from his position and raced out into the street, despite having already gained the Tiger’s complete attention and his position being the focus of its full firepower. He reached the wounded soldier, and with the ground shaking from the Tiger’s roar he dragged the wounded man into cover with bullets whistling about him. The Tiger led the advance through the town with infantry storming into its wake. As it approached the building chosen as the HQ, Captain Ravenscroft and his batman began to lob grenades out of the windows onto the Germans below, until they were captured. By now it was late afternoon. The Germans had reached the town square which had become no-man’s land between the two forces. The Tiger claimed a Sherman, and four more were knocked out by Panzerfausts in the fighting around the square. The situation was looking bleak, with the Germans now in control of 75% of the tow...

An ‘Immediate’ Second War ‘Italy theatre’ M.M. group of five awarded to Lance-Sergeant L. W. Etheridge, Hampshire Regiment, for his action at White Cross Hill, Salerno, on 17 September 1943. He subsequently died on 5 November 1944 Military Medal, G.VI.R. (5501813 A. Col. L. W. Etheridge. Hamps. R.); 1939-45 Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted court-style for wear, extremely fine (5) £1,400-£1,800 --- M.M. London Gazette 13 January 1944. The original Recommendation states: ‘White Cross Hill, Salerno. This N.C.O. was in charge of the ‘18 Set at Company H.Q. of a Company taking part in an attack at approximately 01.30 hours on 17 September 1943. Throughout the attack, under machine gun fire, he maintained contact with Battalion H.Q. enabling the Acting Brigadier to keep in touch with the Company. Later, when the Company was ordered to withdraw, he went forward under fire and passed on the order. He remained with the covering party, still in contact with Battalion H.Q., and enabled the Company to withdraw successfully, through Artillery was being brought down on the enemy positions. His personal courage throughout was an example to all ranks.’ Leslie Wallace Etheridge attested for the Hampshire Regiment and served with the 5th Battalion during the Second World War in Italy. He died on 5 November 1944, and is buried in Meldola War Cemetery, Italy.

The unique Second War 1942 S.B.S. ‘Operation Reservist - attack on Oran Harbour’ M.M. group of six awarded to Sergeant D. C. Ellis, 2 Special Boat Service, late King’s Shropshire Light Infantry, a veteran of Dunkirk, who served with 101 Troop, No. 6 Commando prior to joining the S.B.S. for the raid on the Vichy French held Oran Harbour. Paired in a Folbot with the S.B.S. raid commander, Major H. V. Holden-White, Ellis launched from H.M.S. Walney into the night, 8 November 1942. The Oran Harbour attack was the first British-American Combined Operation of the Second World War, which also produced a superb Victoria Cross for Walney’s Captain, F. T. Peters, and was described by Winston Churchill as ‘The finest British naval engagement since Trafalgar.’ Holden-White and Ellis launched mini torpedoes from their canoe against a submarine and a destroyer, seemingly hitting the latter, prior to be being captured and taken prisoner of war whilst trying to escape from the harbour. Having been repatriated, Ellis was posted for further S.B.S. service under the command of 136 Force (S.O.E.), and served in India, Ceylon and Burma, 1944-47 Military Medal, G.VI.R. (4032370 Sjt. D. C. Ellis. K.S.L.I.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Burma Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted as worn, last 2 mounted in wrong order, generally very fine (6) £12,000-£15,000 --- M.M. London Gazette 27 April 1944: ‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North Africa.’ The original recommendation, which is best read in-conjunction with his commanding officer’s [Captain H. V. Holden-White] own recommendation for the Military Cross, states: ‘Oran Landings. Assault on port by H.M.S. Walney and H.M.S. Hartland - 8th November, 1942. Was Captain Holden-White’s partner in the Folbot, he displayed coolness and courage in directing his Officer on to the target and later, when by himself, he salvaged and re-floated the damaged Folbot, almost under the eyes of a French sentry.’ Holden-White’s M.C. recommendation states: ‘Was in Command of the Special Boat Section Unit, which was detailed to carry out dangerous and delicate operations in-conjunction with assault on the port of Oran. He was in charge of the party operating from H.M.S. Walney in folbots and displayed courage and initiative of a high order in attacking with small torpedoes a French destroyer which was leaving the port, and it is believed that one hit on the vessel was obtained.’ Derek Charles Ellis enlisted as a Boy in the 2nd Battalion, The King’s Shropshire Light Infantry at Shrewsbury in May 1935. He transferred to the 1st Battalion the following year, and served with the B.E.F. in France, 24 September 1939 - 8 June 1940. Ellis was posted to No. 6 Commando (Special Service Brigade) in May 1941, before transferring to the Special Boat Service in April 1942. He was to become part of the newly formed 2 SBS, which was gathered from a nucleus of 101 Troop, 6 Commando and new recruits such as Holden-White. Their billet was a private hotel in a suburb of Ardrossan, Scotland, and from here they learned all things according to the gospel of ‘Jumbo’ Courtney. Ellis had been part of 101 Troop, and had taken part in a reconnaissance 22/23 November 1941: ‘At Dover 101 Troop were mostly engaged in helping the Royal Navy destroy floating mines by rifle fire, but two canoe pairs were used to make a reconnaissance on the night of 22/23 November 1941. This was in preparation for a raid the next night by a hundred men from No. 9 Commando on a coastal gun battery at Houlgate near the mouth of the river Seine. Lieutenant Smith and Corporal Woodhouse overturned in surf and were captured, while Corporal D. C. Ellis and Private Lewis missed the rendezvous and paddled back across the Channel to England. However, they had gathered sufficient information to confirm that LCA’s (landing-craft assault) could land on the beach.’ (SBS In World War Two, The Story of the Original Special Boat Section of the Army Commandos by G. B. Courtney refers) Operation Reservist In the second week of October 1942, Holden-White was summoned to Lord Mountbatten’s Combined Operations Headquarters in Whitehall. There ‘was something big on. Hush-hush. Destination secret for now, but the SBS had an important role to play. Holden-White gleaned enough information to guess that an attack was planned on the Vichy French and that SBS canoeists would be launched at the head of a sea-borne onslaught which, even for one quite new to the service, seemed to nullify what he assessed to be the section’s greatest asset, operating clandestinely.’ (SBS The Inside Story of the Special Boat Service by J. Parker refers) The above - Operation Reservist - was to be a subsidiary part of Operation Torch, the massive invasion of North Africa in November 1942. The SBS operation was to be part of the amphibious assault on Oran, 8 November 1942. The Vichy French held harbour which was heavily protected by shore batteries and contained a number of the surviving vessels of the Vichy French Navy: ‘Opposition inland was judged correctly to be minimal, but the Vichy naval chiefs were still smarting over the sinking of part of the French fleet at Oran by the British in 1940 and would take drastic measures to protect their remaining vessels. Oh, and one other thing, said Courtney. The SBS had the honour of testing a new weapon, a mini-torpedo designed to be fired from canoes, which would hopefully cut down on the need for limpet mines whose clamping was always a hazardous business. A few days later Harry [Holden-White] and Lieutenant E. J. A. ‘Sally’ Lunn went to an experimental station in Hampshire to see a demonstration of the mini-torpedoes. A stock of them was being prepared which, they were assured, would be dispatched with an officer to Gibraltar, where they would be collected by the SBS en route to wherever they were going (then still a secret). The day of embarkation came. Harry took five pairs of SBS canoeists to Greenock, where they loaded their stores, weapons and canoes aboard two converted American coastguard cutters now under the Royal Navy flag and named H.M.S. Walney and H.M.S. Hartland. Three pairs [including Ellis] led by Holden-White boarded Walney while Sally Lunn headed the other two in Hartland. Orders were now clear. They were to join a large convoy at Gibraltar, protected by destroyers and submarines. There, the two ships would pick up 400 American troops, who were to mount a sea-borne assault on Oran harbour and hold it until reinforcements arrived from inland. The SBS role in all of this was to go in first, blowing up shipping in the harbour with the still-experimental mini-torpedoes. Each pair of canoeists was to be given two torpedoes, which they were to release towards suitable targets as soon as feasibly possible. The torpedoes were to be collected in Gibraltar, they were told, where an office would explain all. Harry takes up the story: “Well, that was the first thing to go wrong. When we got to Gib, there was no bloody officer to explain it all, no bloody instructions, and the baby torpedoes were in bits. Luckily, I had Sergeant-Major J. Embelin with us, who was a demolition expert, and he was able to assemble them. But we still had only a vague idea about range and so on... Another problem for us was launching the canoes from ships. Normally, SBS crews are floated off submarines or lowered from MTBs. These cutters gave us a drop of eight to ten feet and our flimsy folbots could have been damaged. So on the way out we decided to practise and unpacked the canoes we had brought aboard in kitbag...

A Second War ‘Normandy, June 1944’ Immediate M.M. group of eleven awarded to Sergeant R. Hey, 9th Battalion, Durham Light Infantry Military Medal, G.VI.R. (3386258 Sjt. R. Hey. Durh. L.I.). ; 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, 1 clasp, 8th Army; Italy Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; Korea 1950-53 (3386258 W.O. Cl. 2. R. Hey. M.M. D.L.I.); U.N. Korea 1950-54; Army L.S. & G.C., E.II.R., 2nd issue, Regular Army (3386258 W.O. Cl. 2. R. Hey. M.M. D.L.I.); Cadet Forces Medal, E.II.R., 2nd issue, with additional service bar (Lt. R. Hey MM CCF.) mounted as worn, very fine and better (11) £1,800-£2,200 --- M.M. London Gazette 31 August 1944. The recommendation for an Immediate M.M. states: ‘On 14 June 1944 one and a half companies of the Battalion captured the village of Lingevres. Sergeant Hey’s platoon was ordered to occupy a ridge just forward of the village while the rest of the force was in a reverse slope position in rear. This platoon was attacked repeatedly for a period of seven hours and eventually had four tanks between them and the main position. The platoon did not waver at any time and continued to fight on when surrounded. This was largely due to Lieutenant Dunn, the platoon commander, and when he was killed, due to Sergeant Hey the platoon sergeant. He showed great personal courage and was an inspiration to the men in the platoon. By holding his platoon in this position he was largely responsible for enabling the rest of the force to hold on until relieved by another Battalion.’ Robert ‘Bob’ Hey was born in 1920 and enlisted into the East Lancashire Regiment at Blackburn on 3 March 1939. He transferred to the Lancashire Fusiliers in December 1942, and to the Durham Light Infantry on 30 March 1943, serving with them in the Middle East and North Africa until 7 November 1943, when he returned Home. He served with the 9th Battalion in the North West Europe campaign from 3 June to 11 August, 1944. Transferring to the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry in June 1949, he served with that regiment in East Africa, with the British Army of the Rhine, Korea and Japan until 28 May 1953, when he rejoined the Durham Light Infantry in Korea, serving there until 16 August 1953. He afterwards served with M.E.L.F. and at Home until 2 March 1961, when he was discharged in the rank of WO1 (R.S.M.) from the 6th Battalion, Durham Light Infantry. An accompanying news cutting (undated) reporting his memorial service states: ‘Later he worked with the army cadets at Barnard Castle School for 23 years, and in semi-retirement he drove for Carters Cabs in the town. He lived at Dial House at Whorlton crossroads and later at Stainton Grove. He went to live at the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, in 1990. Sold with Regular Army Certificate of Service (confirming service medals), metal identity disc, various R.A.O.B. certificates and D.L.I. Association membership cards.

A fine Second War ‘Battle of Wadi Akarit, V.C. action’ Immediate M.M. awarded to Corporal James Ginty, 7th Battalion, Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, for gallantry in the attack on the Gabes line in April 1943; he was killed in action in January 1944 Military Medal, G.VI.R. (2992110 Cpl. J. Ginty. A. & S.H,); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, 1 clasp, 1st Army; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45, mounted for display, extremely fine (5) £1,400-£1,800 --- M.M. London Gazette 14 September 1943. The recommendation for the Immediate award of the M.M. states: ‘On 6 April 1943 in the attack on the GABES line, Corporal Ginty led his section with outstanding gallantry and dash and set an example which was an inspiration to his men. Both the attack and the re-organisation took place under sustained and accurate shelling and small arms fire but he remained completely calm and regardless to danger. His example was followed by his men who moved with the greatest self control. When the objective was captured, Cpl. Ginty was ordered to take his section forward of the rest of the platoon and dig in. The platoon was suffering considerable shelling and some sniping from a German post on his right but Cpl. Ginty calmly led his men forward, selected a position and began digging. Later he was ordered to rejoin the platoon and again he led his section without haste or sign of fear to its fresh position. The complete control and lack of fear shown by the section both on this occasion and throughout the day was an inspiration to the rest of the platoon and was due entirely to the personal example and leadership of Cpl. Ginty.’ The battle of Wadi Akarit took place in a narrow coastline strip between the sea and the coastal towns of Gabes and El Hamma. Between these was the Gabes gap. The Wadi Akarit ran across the gap at the coastal end and to the Roumana Ridge inland and to the west. On 6 April 1943, in the attack upon the Wadi Akarit position, the task of breaking through the enemy minefield and anti-tank ditch to the East of the Roumana feature and of forming the initial bridgehead for a Brigade of the 51st Highland Division was allotted to the 7th Battalion of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Lorne Campbell. It was for gallantry in this attack the Lieutenant-Colonel Lorne Campbell won the Victoria Cross and Corporal Ginty the Military Medal. James Ginty was killed or died on 17 January 1944, aged 21. He was the son of Martin and Ellen Ginty, of Selby, Yorkshire, and is buried in Alexandria (Hadra) War Memorial Cemetery.

A fine Second War ‘Normandy Landings, June 1944’ M.M. group of five awarded to Corporal R. E. Jermey, 224th Parachute Field Ambulance, Royal Army Medical Corps, attached 6 Airborne Division H.Q at Le Bas de Ranville Military Medal, G.VI.R. (7377858 Cpl. R. E. Jermey. R.A.M.C.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; France and Germany Star; War Medal 1939-45, mounted for display, extremely fine (5) £3,000-£4,000 --- M.M. London Gazette 19 October 1944. The recommendation states: ‘On 9 June 1944 Divisional Headquarters at 1073 (France 1/100,000, Sheet 7F) was heavily shelled and mortared from 1920 to 2030 hours. About 20 casualties were sustained. Corporal Jermey, after attending to one of these casualties who was bleeding badly from a leg wound, carried the casualty on his own, using the Firemans Lift, to the Main Dressing Station, 500 yards away as no vehicles with stretchers were available at the time. Although shells were literally bursting all round him he never faltered. On two occasions he and his patient were knocked down by the blast of the shells but he collected his patient and carried on immediately. In this case he undoubtedly saved the patient’s life as the nature of the wound was such that immediate surgical interference was necessary. His complete disregard for personal safety combined with his coolness and determination has been an example to all ranks.’ D-Day June 1944 - Airborne Landings On D-Day, 6 June 1944, Corporal Robert Jermey, Royal Army Medical Corps attached to 6th Airborne Divisional HQ, leapt into the void from the Dakota carrying him and other elements of R.A.M.C. airborne personnel and successfully parachuted into the apple orchards of Normandy, France. There then ensued a hectic time of setting up a Casualty Clearing Station and dealing with numerous Airborne casualties which inevitably streamed in from the Airborne and Airlanding troops desperately trying to hold their various outlying positions. Three days after the initial invasion, 6th Airborne Divisional HQ came under intense German artillery and mortar fire, during which Corporal Jermey, his position straffed by exploding shells, courageously left cover to go to the aid of a stricken comrade who was badly wounded in the legs. With complete disregard to his own safety, he firstly applied field dressings then despite shells falling to left and right, hoisted the man onto his back and although knocked down twice from the blasts of exploding shells he, encumbered by the dead weight of his stricken comrade, finally managed to cover the 500 yards to the comparative safety of the Casualty Collection Post and in so doing, certainly saved the man’s life. For his outstanding bravery, he was rewarded with the well earned award of the Military Medal. 6th Airborne Divisional HQ, D-Day - Operation Mallard At 03:35, the 6th Airborne Division headquarters landed by glider in the landing-zone cleared by sappers. Only a few gliders missed the landing-zone, due to the poor weather and errors in navigation. Once the headquarters staff and accompanying airborne troops had been gathered together, the headquarters was moved to the Le Bas de Ranville area and set up there. Contact was established with the headquarters of 5th Parachute Brigade at 05:00, and with the headquarters of 3rd Parachute Brigade at 12:35, and the division linked up with 1st Special Service Brigade as it advanced from the invasion beaches at 13:53. Mallard was the final wave of the 6th Airborne Division’s landings and consisted of 220 Horsa and Hamilcar gliders, carrying the 6th Airlanding Brigade and other units. The gliders arrived at their landing-zone, coming under heavy small-arms and mortar fire from nearby German positions as they landed. Casualties were light and within ninety minutes the glider-borne troops had gathered at their rendezvous points. By 00:00 7 June, the entire 6th Airborne Division had been fully deployed on the eastern flank of the invasion beaches (with the exception of 12th Battalion, Devonshire Regiment – part of 6th Airlanding Brigade – that was due to arrive by sea on 7 June). The division ended the day with the 3rd Parachute Brigade holding a 4-mile (6.4 km) front, with 9th Parachute Battalion at Le Plein, 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion at Les Mesneil, and the 8th Parachute Battalion in the southern part of the Bois de Bavent. The 5th Parachute Brigade had the 12th Parachute Battalion occupying Le Bas de Ranville, and the 13th Parachute Battalion holding Ranville, while the 7th Parachute Battalion had been moved into reserve. The 6th Airlanding Brigade was poised to commit its two battalions to extend the bridgehead. The 1st Special Service Brigade, which had temporarily came under the command of the division, was holding villages to the north and north-east of DZ N. The 6th Airborne Division suffered a total of 800 casualties between 5 June and 7 June, out of the 8,500 men deployed. Robert Jermey was born on 8 August 1917, and later lived at South Wigston, Leicestershire. His occupation in 1939 was that of a carpenter at Lewes Prison, Sussex. He had previously seen active service in North Africa before being selected for Airborne training. He died in July 1993, aged 75, at Brentwood, Essex. The Airborne R.A.M.C. units attached to 6th Airborne Division on 6 June 1944, were 195 Airlanding Field Ambulance RAMC, 224 Parachute Field Ambulance RAMC, and 225 Parachute Field Ambulance RAMC

An outstanding Second War 1944 ‘Burma operations’ M.M. group of five awarded to Naik Manbahadur Limbu, 1/7th Gurkha Rifles, for his gallantry when in command of a road block on the Tiddim Road as part of the Battle of Imphal. The latter coming under a heavy night-time attack, 17/18 May 1944, during which he led the counter-attack and personally accounted for 12 of the enemy by a combination of grenades; and a Bren gun firing from the hip Military Medal, G.VI.R. (2962 Nk Manbahadur Limbu G R); 1939-45 Star; Burma Star; War Medal 1939-45; India Service Medal, campaign awards officially impressed ‘2962 Nk. Manbahadur Limbu, 7 G.R.’, mounted for wear, M.M. on incorrect riband, nearly very fine (5) £800-£1,000 --- M.M. London Gazette 28 June 1945. The original recommendation states: ‘Period 16 May to 15 August 1944. Naik Manbahadur Limbu was in command of a section at the road block at Mile 33 on the Tiddim Road. On the night of 17/18 May ‘44 the enemy attacked in strength, Naik Manbahadur Limbu thereupon left his bunker and counter attacked the enemy with grenades, killing 7. Himself wounded in the shoulder, he then went to one of the bunkers, took a Bren gun and firing from the hip killed a further 5 enemy, the remainder fleeing. Throughout this action and in the fighting during the next ten days this NCO set a magnificent example of leadership, initiative and offensive spirit in his determination to close with and destroy the enemy.’ Manbahadur Limbu was a Hindu from Phaben village, in the district of Dhankhuta. He served with the 1/7th Gurkha Rifles as part of the 17th Indian Light Division in Burma during the Second World War.

A scarce Second War 1941 Sunderland Navigator’s D.F.M. group of six awarded to Flight Lieutenant H. Morton, Royal Air Force, who had flown in at least 76 operational sorties with 228 Squadron by the end of March 1941; many of which had been flown from Kalafrana, Malta. He distinguished himself as a ‘courageous Air Gunner when his aircraft was attacked by enemy fighters. On 1st November 1940, he removed a casualty from the rear turret and fought the rear guns during five attacks by a Macchi 200, causing it to break away... he achieved this with only one control as the other had been shot away previously...’ Flight Lieutenant Morton was killed in action, still serving with 228 Squadron, whilst carrying out an anti-submarine patrol over the Bay of Biscay, 6 January 1944 Distinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. (522241. Sgt. H. Morton. R.A.F.); 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Africa Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted of card for display, generally very fine or better (6) £1,800-£2,200 --- D.F.M. London Gazette 8 April 1941. The original recommendation states: ‘Sergeant Morton has been an Air Observer in Sunderland aircraft continuously since the outbreak of war and has flown on 76 operational patrols, all of which have been of an arduous and exacting nature. The success of these patrols and recces has depended in no small degree on the skill of the Navigator and in particularly, Sergeant Morton has reached a very high level due to sheer painstaking attention to detail and being continuously on the job. Sergeant Morton has also proved himself a determined and courageous Air Gunner when his aircraft was attacked by enemy fighters. On 1st November, 1940, he removed a casualty from the rear turret and fought the rear guns during five attacks by a Macchi 200, causing it to break away. In all instances, he achieved this with only one control as the other had been shot away previously. Sergeant Morton has set an inspiring example to all members of the squadron, officers and airmen alike, by his continuous devotion to duty.’ Henry Morton was the son of Mr and Mrs H. Morton, and the husband of Eliza Morton of Fulwel, County Durham. He enlisted in the Royal Air Force in the summer of 1935, and served as a Navigator with 228 Squadron (Sunderlands) from the outbreak of the Second War. The Squadron was based at Pembroke Dock, but Detachments were sent to Invergordon and Sullom Voe for patrols between Scotland and Norway. The Squadron moved to Egypt when Italy entered the war in June 1940, with a detachment operating from Gibraltar. 228 Squadron moved to Kalafrana, Malta in September 1940, and from here undertook reconnaissance patrols for the Fleet and anti-submarine patrols. They continued to operate from this exposed position until moved to Alexandria, Egypt in March 1941. Morton advanced to Temporary Warrant Officer, prior to being commissioned Pilot Officer in February 1942. He advanced to Flying Officer in October of the same year, and subsequently advanced to Acting Flight Lieutenant. Morton was still serving with 228 Squadron, by then from Pembroke Dock, when his Sunderland Mk 3 JM 709 was lost without trace on anti-submarine operations over the Bay of Biscay, 6 January 1944. Flight Lieutenant Morton was reported as Missing in Action, presumed Killed in Action, and is commemorated on the Runnymede Memorial.

The outstanding Second War ‘V.C. Action’ immediate D.F.M. group of five awarded to Stirling rear gunner, Warrant Officer H. W. ‘Pete’ Gough, 149 (East India) Squadron, Royal Air Force - awarded for his gallantry during the raid on the Fiat Works, Turin, 28 November 1942 - when all the crew were valiant, and his pilot Flight Sergeant R. H. Middleton was awarded a posthumous Victoria Cross. Gough had already flown 32 operational sorties prior to Turin, completing his 30 operation quota, but had decided along with another crew member in a similar position to remain with their pilot until his tour of duty was completed. What followed were two epic flights over, or in their case through, the Alps in an already faulty aircraft that subsequently became riddled with flak and piloted by two gravely wounded men. Gough along with the remainder of his crew baled out over England, thanks to the heroics of Middleton. Gough was unflappable, and no stranger to adversity - his first two operational sorties having been the first Thousand Bomber Raids to Cologne and Essen, earlier in the year. Perhaps it is no surprise then that after the death of his skipper and two other members of the crew, he volunteered to serve with 161 Squadron - a ‘Secret Squadron.’ He flew as an air gunner in Hudsons on at least 24 operational sorties with the Squadron, dropping agents and supplies all over occupied Europe. Gough was forced to bale out again, when on his last operational sortie of the war, 11 April 1945. Returning from a Special Operation to Germany - his Log Book records the incident thus - ‘(Baled - Out). All In The Days Work’ Distinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. (1130087. Sgt. H. W. Gough. R.A.F.) suspension claw re-pinned, and slack; 1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star, 1 clasp, France and Germany; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted on card for display, otherwise generally very fine or better (5) £6,000-£8,000 --- D.F.M. London Gazette 12 February 1943 (jointly listed with the surviving members of the crew: Flight Sergeant L. A. Hyder [D.F.M.]; Flight Sergeant D. Cameron [D.F.M.]; Flying Officer G. R. Royde [D.F.C.] and Pilot Officer N. E. Skinner [D.F.C.]): ‘On 28th November 1942, these members of an aircraft crew took part in an attack on a target in Turin. Whilst over the target area, their bomber was repeatedly hit by anti-aircraft fire and sustained much damage. A shell, which burst in the cockpit, rendered the captain, the late Flight Sergeant Middleton, VC unconscious and wounded the second pilot Flight Sergeant Hyder in the face and legs. Pilot Officer Skinner was also wounded in the leg. Despite his injuries Flight Sergeant Hyder took over the controls and succeeded in regaining control of the aircraft, which had dived from 2,000 to 800 feet. Later the bomb load was released. Shortly afterwards the captain regained consciousness, but Flight Sergeant Hyder, after receiving first aid, insisted on remaining beside him in case of emergency. On the return flight when crossing the Alps, Flight Sergeant Cameron and Sergeant Gough greatly assisted the pilot to maintain height by jettisoning all moveable equipment. Skilful navigation by Flying Officer Royde enabled the aircraft to be flown back to this country. Shortly after crossing the coast the aircraft had to be abandoned owing to lack of petrol. In the face of almost insuperable odds, these members of the aircraft crew displayed courage, fortitude, and determination of a high order.’ Middleton’s V.C. citation London Gazette 15 January 1943, adds further context: ‘Flight Sergeant Middleton was captain and first pilot of a Stirling aircraft detailed to attack the Fiat Works at Turin one night in November, 1942. Great difficulty was experienced in climbing to 12,000 feet to cross the Alps, which led to excessive consumption of fuel. So dark was the night that the mountain peaks were almost invisible. During the crossing Flight Sergeant Middleton had to decide whether to proceed or turn back, there being barley sufficient fuel for the return journey. Flares were sighted ahead and he continued the mission and even dived to 2,000 feet to identify the target, despite the difficulty of regaining height. Three flights were made over Turin at this low altitude before the target was identified. The aircraft was then subjected to fire from light anti-aircraft guns. A large hole appeared in the port main plane which made it difficult to maintain lateral control. A shell then burst in the cockpit, shattering the windscreen and wounding both pilots. Apiece of shell splinter tore into the side of Flight Sergeant Middleton´s face, destroying his right eye and exposing the bone over his eye. He was probably wounded also in the body or legs. The second pilot received wounds in the head and both legs bled profusely. The wireless operator was also wounded in the leg. Flight Sergeant Middleton became unconscious and the aircraft dived to 800 feet before control was regained by the second pilot, who took the aircraft up to 1500 feet and released the bombs. There was still light flak, some very intense, and the aircraft was hit many times. The three gunners replied continuously until the rear turret was put out of action. Flight Sergeant Middleton had now recovered consciousness and, when clear of the target, ordered the second pilot back to receive first aid. Before this was completed the latter insisted on returning to the cockpit, as the captain could see very little and could only speak with loss of blood and great pain. Course was set for base and the crew now faced an Alpine crossing and a homeward flight in a damaged aircraft, with insufficient fuel. The possibilities of abandoning the air-craft or landing in Northern France were discussed but Flight Sergeant Middleton expressed the intention of trying to make the English coast, so that his crew could leave the aircraft by parachute. Owing to his wounds and diminishing strength, he knew that, by then, he would have little or no chance of saving himself. After four hours, the French coast was reached and here the aircraft, flying at 6,000 feet, was once more engaged and hit by intense light anti-aircraft fire. Flight Sergeant Middleton was still at the controls and mustered sufficient strength to take evasive action. After crossing the Channel there was only sufficient fuel for 5 minutes flying. Flight Sergeant Middleton ordered the crew to abandon the aircraft while he flew parallel with the coast for a few miles, after which he intended to head out to sea. Five of the crew left the aircraft safely, while two remained to assist Flight Sergeant Middleton. The aircraft crashed in the sea and the bodies of the front gunner and flight engineer were recovered the following day. Their gallant captain was apparently unable to leave the aircraft and his body has not been traced. Flight Sergeant Middleton was determined to attack the target regardless of the consequences and not to allow his crew to fall into enemy hands. While all the crew displayed heroism of a high order, the urge to do so came from Flight Sergeant Middleton, whose fortitude and strength of will made possible the completion of the mission. His devotion to duty in the face of overwhelming odds is unsurpassed in the annals of the Royal Air Force.’ Gough’s original recommendation states: ‘Sergeant Gough has completed 32 sorties with this squadron as a rear gunner. These include no less than ten sorties against targets in the Ruhr district and four against Italian targets in Genoa and Turin. On his last trip with this squadron, he was detailed with his crew to carry out a low-level attack against the Fiat works to the South of Turin. The aircraft was heav...

A Second War ‘1940’ Bristol Blenheim air gunner’s D.F.M. awarded to Corporal Arthur Daley, Royal Air Force, serving with No 57 Squadron, part of the R.A.F. component of the B.E.F. in France when, ‘on one recent occasion when attacked and pursued by 18 enemy fighters, he kept up a continuous fire and is believed to have accounted for two’; he was later commissioned as Flying Officer and was killed in action when his Lancaster III of No 103 Squadron was shot down over Denmark in April 1943 Distinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. (551341 Cpl. A. Daley, R.A.F.) mounted on original investiture pin, toned, nearly extremely fine £1,800-£2,200 --- D.F.M. London Gazette 23 July 1940: ‘For gallantry and devotion to duty in the execution of air operations.’ The recommendation, dated 13 May 1940, states: ‘As Wireless Operator/Air Gunner in “A” Flight, No. 57 Squadron, this N.C.O. has always displayed a keenness and willingness for duty which has commanded the respect and admiration of his brother Air Gunners. On one recent occasion when attacked and pursued by 18 enemy fighters, he kept up a continuous fire and is believed to have accounted for two.’ Equipped with Bristol Blenheims, No. 57 Squadron went to France in September 1939 as part of the Air Component of the B.E.F. in France for strategical and reconnaissance duties. Following the invasion of France and the Low Countries in May 1940, bombing once again became its primary role. With the advance of the German armies the squadron had to retreat, although even in retreat it took every opportunity to hit back. From Rosières it went to Poix, and from Poix to Crécy. Then, on 19th and 20th May, the squadron returned to England and on the 21st reassembled at Wyton, Huntingdonshire. Arthur Daley was appointed Pilot Officer on probation, 30 December 1941 (47871), and promoted to Flying Officer (Air Gunner) on 1 October 1942. Appointed to No. 103 Squadron, he was killed in action on the night of 20/21 April 1943 when on a bombing operation against Stettin, his Lancaster III was shot down by a night fighter and crashed 0022 at Vester Vedsted, 7 km south-west of Ribe, Denmark. All seven of the crew are buried in Esbjerg (Fourfelt) Cemetery

A Second War 1944 D.F.M. group of five awarded to Lancaster Wireless Operator, Flight Sergeant D. S. Nicholls, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, who flew in at least 45 operational sorties, 26 of which were with 97 (Straits Settlements) Squadron - a “marker” squadron. Earlier in his tour, during one of his seven trips to Berlin and back, ‘whilst over the target, their aircraft was attacked by an enemy aircraft, and whilst the pilot was still taking evasive action, the rear gunner’s oxygen failed and he lost consciousness. F/S Nicholls went back and rendered aid, but in doing so suffered severe frost bite to his hands. When he was quite sure the rear gunner was recovered, he returned to his post and carried out his duties as wireless operator for the remainder of the journey home.’ Distinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. (1321716. F/Sgt. D. S. Nicholls. R.A.F.); 1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star, 1 clasp, France and Germany; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf, mounted for display; together with the related miniature awards, these lacking M.I.D. emblem, generally very fine or better (5) £1,600-£2,000 --- D.F.M. London Gazette 12 December 1944. The original Recommendation, dated 9 September 1944, states: ‘This wireless operator has now completed 45 operational sorties, of which 26 have been with the Path Finder Force. F/S Nicholls is the wireless operator of a first-class marker crew, and as such has done some outstanding work. Throughout his tour he has displayed exceptional keenness, and this combined with his outstanding skill and courage, has set an excellent example to all W/T operators on this Squadron. On one occasion early in December 1943 [16 December 1943], this N.C.O. was the wireless operator in an aircraft attacking Berlin. Whilst over the target, their aircraft was attacked by an enemy aircraft, and whilst the pilot was still taking evasive action, the rear gunner’s oxygen failed and he lost consciousness. F/S Nicholls went back and rendered aid, but in doing so suffered severe frost bite to his hands. When he was quite sure the rear gunner was recovered, he returned to his post and carried out his duties as wireless operator for the remainder of the journey home. For his unswerving devotion to duty, his skill and courage, he is well worthy of the non-immediate award of the Distinguished Flying Medal.’ M.I.D. London Gazette 1 January 1945. Douglas Sylvester Nicholls was born in St. Austell, Cornwall, in 1923. He enlisted in Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve in 1941, and carried out initial training as a Wireless Operator. He flew in 19 operational sorties between December 1943 - March 1944, including: Berlin (7); Leipzig (2); Frankfurt; Stettin; Brunswick; Magdeburg; Stuttgart (3); Schweinfurt; Augsburg and Marignane. Having advanced to Flight Sergeant, Nicholls was posted for operational flying to 97 (Straits Settlements) Squadron (Lancasters), Coningsby, in April 1944. The Squadron was employed as a “marker” squadron for No. 5 Group. He flew in at least 26 operational sorties with the Squadron, including: Brunswick (2); Schweinfurt; Clerment-Ferrand; Toulouse; Louailles; Annecy; Amiens; Maisy; St. Pierre-du-Mont, 6 June 1944; Argentan, 6 June 1944; Rennes, 8 June 1944; Poiters; Creil; Culment-Chalindrey; Nevers; Courtrai; Donges; Stuttgart; Siracourt; Givors; Stettin; Bordeaux; Darmstadt; Brest and Deelen. Sold with copied research.

An inter-War ‘Royal Tour of India’ R.V.M. group of three awarded to Private T. Clare, Army Service Corps Royal Victorian Medal, G.V.R., silver, unnamed as issued, in case and outer card box of issue; British War and Victory Medals (M-339655 Pte. T. Clare. A.S.C.) in named card box of issue, extremely fine (3) £100-£140 --- R.V.M. in silver awarded 11 March 1922. Thomas Ferguson Clare was employed by Crossley Motors, and served as Chauffeur to H.R.H. the Prince of Wales during his 1922 Tour of India.

A scarce Great War Medal of the Order of the British Empire and M.S.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant-Major William Coates, Expeditionary Force Canteens, Army Service Corps, for courage and devotion to duty under fire in France Medal of the Order of the British Empire, (Military) unnamed as issued; Army Meritorious Service Medal, G.V.R., 1st issue (367481 S. Mjr: W. Coates. Exp: F. Cntns:); British War and Victory Medals (A-367481 A.W.O. Cl.1. W. Coates. A.S.C.) mounted as worn, toned, nearly extremely fine (4) £400-£500 --- O.B.E. Medal (Military) London Gazette 11 June 1918: ‘For services in connection with the War, in which great courage or self-sacrifice has been displayed:- Coates, Serjeant-Major William, Expeditionary Force Canteens. For courage and devotion to duty while carrying on canteen work under shell fire.’ M.S.M. London Gazette 17 June 1918: ‘367481 S./M. W. Coates, Exped’y Force Canteens (Streatham Hill). [FRANCE]

A Great War Medal of the Order of the British Empire group of three awarded to Superintendent R. Burt, London County Council Metropolitan Fire Brigade, for his gallantry in saving life in Long Acre, London, following an enemy air raid on 29 January 1918 Medal of the Order of the British Empire, (Civil), unnamed as issued, in John Pinches, London, case of issue; Jubilee 1897, bronze L.C.C.M.F.B. (Richard Burt); Coronation 1911, London Fire Brigade (Stn. Off. R. Burt.); together with the recipient’s London County Council London Fire Brigade Good Service Medal, 1st type, bronze (Richard Burt) light contact marks, the last somewhat polished and worn, generally very fine (4) £300-£400 --- Medal of the Order of the British Empire London Gazette 7 July 1920: ‘For conspicuous ability and devotion to duty at fires caused by hostile aircraft.’ The original Recommendation states: ‘Present at practically all the large air-raid fires in the centre of London, showing conspicuous ability in dealing with such fires, and was present at the fire in Pentonville Road when bombs were dropped from enemy aircraft in close proximity, one fireman actually being injured by a fragment of a bomb.’ ‘The L.C.C. list of Recommendations is additionally annotated: This list, I understand, is framed on the basis of including only persons who have risked their life in saving life.’ Street (1992a:49) notes this award as being for rescue work at Odhams Ltd., 93 Long Acre, WC, following the air raid on 29 January 1918. Richard Burt was born in Kilburn, London, on 12 July 1870 and joined the London County Council Metropolitan Fire Brigade on 3 July 1891. For most of his career he was based at Headquarters, before being appointed Station Officer at Camden Town on 21 October 1908. Promoted Superintendent on 1 August 1916, he served with the Fire Brigade throughout the Great War, and was awarded the Medal of the Order of the British Empire in July 1920, and retired to pension on 13 September 1920. Sold with copied record of service.

A Second War B.E.M. awarded to Marine (acting Temporary Corporal) Harry Connolly, 43 Commando, Royal Marines, for gallantry in rescuing the pilot of a plane that crashed and burst into flames British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (Marine (A./Temp. Cpl.) Harry Connolly, C/X.110992 R.M.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted as worn, very fine £600-£800 --- B.E.M. (Military) London Gazette 15 August 1944: ‘For great courage in rescuing the pilot of an aircraft that crashed and burst into flames.’

A Second War B.E.M. group of seven awarded to Sergeant J. B. Richardson, Royal Artillery British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (1534788 Sgt. John B. Richardson, R.A.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, 1 clasp, 8th Army; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf; Special Constabulary Long Service Medal, E.II.R., 2nd issue (John B. Richardson) good very fine (8) £300-£400 --- B.E.M. London Gazette 8 June 1944. The original Recommendation, dated 29 February 1944, states: ‘Sergeant John Booth Richardson has worked in this General Headquarters since its formation in September 1942 as N.C.O. in charge of civilian employees and has been of the utmost value in maintaining the efficiency and use of buildings, including 76 offices and 26 Officers’ or Sergeants’ Messes. The general cleanliness of the area covered by G.H.Q. buildings and the various camps has been his responsibility and he has carried out all duties allotted to him cheerfully and conscientiously. During this period nearly 3,000 Iraqi civilians of all grades have been satisfactorily employed in various duties and on an average 400 permanently employed. He has all along been of the greatest assistance to the Officer in charge of Civilian Employment in controlling the civilian staff of G.H.Q. and has throughout performed an uninspiring and arduous duty with the utmost zeal and never failing good spirit and tact.’ M.I.D. London Gazette 29 November 1945: ‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Italy. John Booth Richardson attested for the Royal Artillery and served with the Light Anti Aircraft Unit during the Second World War. Sold with the recipient’s named Buckingham Palace enclosure for the B.E.M.; original M.I.D. Certificate; and various riband bars. Sold together with the following family medal Special Constabulary Long Service Medal, E.II.R., 2nd issue (Colin J. Richardson) extremely fine Colin J. Richardson was the brother of John Booth Richardson.

A fine Second War ‘clandestine operations’ B.E.M. group of five awarded to Lance Sergeant N. C. Nicklin, Royal Signals, a wireless operator in S.O.E.’s Force 133 who was parachuted into Greece in January 1944 and spent the rest of the year working behind enemy lines. Including during a German drive in July 1944 when Nicklin was surprised and forced to take cover within 20 feet of two enemy mortar positions - ‘with the Germans walking around him, he scraped a hole in the ground and buried the ciphers and code book which he wanted to save in case of capture…’ British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (2362342 L/Sgt. Norman C. Nicklin); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45, with named Buckingham Palace enclosure slip, generally good very fine (5) £1,800-£2,200 --- B.E.M. London Gazette 18 October 1945: ‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the field.’ The original recommendation (for a ‘Greek award equivalent to BEM’) states” ‘Lance-Sergeant Nicklin was dropped by parachute into Greece in January 1944 and returned to the Middle East in December 1944 on completion of his duties. Whilst in Greece he served the whole time as W/T operator. On arrival he was stationed for a few days only in the Thessaly area and moved after that to the South Macedonia HQ Station where he carried out, in addition to his W/T operator duties, cipher and station administration duties as 2 i/c the Wireless Station. During a German drive in July 1944 Sergeant Nicklin, who had been surprised unawares, was forced to take cover in some bracken within 20 feet of two German mortars. With the Germans walking around him, he scraped a hole in the ground and buried the ciphers and code book which he wanted to save in case of capture. With the enemy so near, he disregarded his own safety and took a considerable risk. In August and September, traffic coming through his station was very heavy, as preparations were being made to harass the retreating Germans. This meant a great strain on the W/T operators and cipher personnel, especially when intercommunications were introduced between Field Stations, adding greatly to the already considerable traffic with the Middle East. Before going into the field Lance-Sergeant Nicklin had worked at Cairo HQs. At all times he proved a reliable and efficient NCO. For his devotion to duty, for his long and faithful service in occupied Greece he is recommended for a suitable Greek award.’ Norman Charles Nicklin was a native of Walsall.

A Second War ‘Malta Command’ B.E.M. group of seven awarded to Lieutenant L. Boyes, Duke of Wellington’s West Riding Regiment, late Private, East Kent Regiment, for gallantry in extinguishing a burning Beaufighter in March 1942 British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (4398313 Pte. Lewis Boyes); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; General Service 1918-62, 1 clasp, Malaya, E.II.R. (Lt. L. Boyes. BEM. DWR.) mounted court-style for display, very fine (7) £600-£800 --- B.E.M. (Military) London Gazette 28 October 1942: ‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the field’ The following recommendation for an Immediate M.M. was submitted by Lieutenant-Colonel D. P. Iggulden, 4th Battalion, East Kent Regiment: ‘Whilst working on Ta Kali at about 18.30 hours in 18 March 192, he saw a Beaufighter, which was near to him, catch fire through an exploding bomb. Private Boyes at once ran to the plane and, assisted by 3856452 Private Haynes of the 8th Battalion, Manchester Regiment and a RAF sentry, extinguish the fire and pulled away the camouflage nets which were also burning. The work was made very difficult by the fumes coming from the fire. The prompt and determined action by them undoubtedly saved the Beaufighter from being destroyed.’ Lewis Boyes was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment on 28 October 1944.

A Second War B.E.M. group of five awarded to Private H. W. Grainger, Hampshire Regiment, who was killed in action in Italy on 14 May 1944 and was posthumously Mentioned in Despatches British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (5512787 Pte. Harold W. Grainger.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf, mounted court-style for wear, nearly extremely fine (5) £300-£400 --- B.E.M. London Gazette 15 September 1944: ‘In recognition of gallant conduct in carrying out hazardous work in a very brave manner.’ The original Recommendation states: ‘In October 1943, a solder who was travelling in a landing craft from Phillipeville to Taranto fell overboard. Private Grainger, who was travelling in another craft nearby noticed the incident and, without hesitation or thought for personal safety, dived into the sea fully clothed and was successful in rescuing the man who had fallen overboard. Private Grainger was in the water for about twenty minutes and when he and the man he had rescued were picked up by a boat it was found that he was vomiting and suffering from shock. Private Grainger’s conduct was most praiseworthy.’ Harold William Grainger attested for the Hampshire Regiment at Portsmouth, and served with the 2nd/4th Battalion during the Second World War in both north Africa and Italy. Awarded the British Empire Medal, he was killed in action in Italy on 14 May 1944, and was posthumously Mentioned in Despatches (London Gazette 25 January 1945). He is buried in Cassino War Cemetery, Italy.

A good Second War 1943 ‘immediate’ B.E.M. group of four awarded to Leading Aircraftman W. H. Goode, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, for his gallantry as part of the R.A.F. St. Athan Crash Tender - when he rushed to the aid of a Lancaster that had crashed on the beach at Col-Hugh Point, Llantwit Major, 2 October 1942. Not only was the beach mined for defence purposes, it was a moonless night, and an airman had also been recently killed there by a mine. Despite this Goode pressed on and led the search. He had previously undertaken a similar approach when a Beaufighter stationed at St. Athan crashed on the runway and burst into flames British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (549750 L.A.C. William H. Goode. R.A.F.V.R.); 1939-45 Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted on card for display, very fine (4) £500-£700 --- B.E.M. London Gazette 14 March 1944: ‘One night in October, 1943, a Lancaster aircraft, returning from an operation, crashed on a beach. A crash tender was quickly on the scene, Leading Aircraftman Goode being a member of its crew. The aircraft was found to be burning fiercely. Despite the danger from ammunition, which was continually exploding, the crew of the tender successfully extinguished the fire. There being no sign of any occupants of the bomber, an extensive search was made of the aircraft and also in the neighbourhood of the beach. The search in this latter area was a particularly hazardous operation as the locality is heavily mined and personnel had been “warned off” in orders. Throughout the fire fighting work and during the subsequent search, which was undertaken in complete darkness, Leading Aircraftman Goode showed a conspicuous example of courageous and enthusiastic leadership, displaying complete disregard for his own safety. On a more recent occasion, he displayed similar courage and leadership when an aircraft crashed on a runway of his station and burst into flames. He made a prolonged attempt to save the pilot from the flames and, although unsuccessful, he eventually was able to recover the body.’ The original recommendation states: ‘At approximately 01.00 hours on the 2nd October, 1943, an aircraft, since proved to be Lancaster EE 110, belonging to No. 619 Squadron, No. 5 Group, Bomber Command, returning from operational service, crashed on the beach at Col-Hugh Point, Llantwit Major, at a point about 2 and half miles from this Station [St. Athan]. The Crash Tender from this Station was quickly on the scene of the crash and at the time of their arrival the aircraft was burning fiercely. On the assumption that members of the crew might still be in the aircraft, the crew of the Crash Tender went into action at once to extinguish the fire, and they did this effectively, notwithstanding that until the fire was extinguished, ammunition in the aircraft was continuously exploding. The fire was put out at approximately 01.20 hours. There being no sign of any member of the crew of the aircraft on the surface of the crash, the Crash Tender Crew then undertook an intensive search for the crew of the aircraft in the crash, and in the neighbourhood on the beach. This latter operation was equally hazardous, because of the known fact that the beach in this locality is mined and airmen are warned off in Station Standing Orders. On the 4th April, 1943, an airman from this Station was killed on the beach in this locality by exploding a mine. It will also be appreciated that at that hour in the morning it was completely dark and there was no moon. Throughout the whole operation LAC. Goode was in the lead, and gave a conspicuous example of courageous and enthusiastic leadership, showing complete disregard for his own personal safety from beginning to end. LAC. Goode has, on a recent occasion, displayed a similar example of courage and leadership when a Beaufighter from this Station crashed on the runway and burst into flames. This airman made a prolonged attempt to save the pilot from the flames, and, though unsuccessful, he eventually recovered the body.’ William Henry Goode was born in Wednesbury, Staffordshire in March 1920, and enlisted in the Royal Air Force in March 1938. He advanced to Leading Aircraftman in December 1940, and served at Habbaniya, Iraq, October 1938 - August 1941, during which time Rashid Ali and his generals laid siege to the R.A.F. Station in May 1941. Goode returned to the UK in April 1942, and was subsequently posted to R.A.F. St. Athan, Wales in June 1943. He was a member of the Crash Tender, and on the night in question (see citation above) the Lancaster concerned was returning from a Nickel raid on Hagen. Piloted by Flying Officer D. F. Joss, the aircraft had carried out the raid but seemingly got lost on its. return to Woodhall Spa. The seven members of the crew all died, their bodies being recovered from the Bristol Channel. It is presumed that they had bailed out prior to the crash. Goode was discharged medically unfit, as a consequence of Bilateral Deafness, in September 1944. Sold with recipient’s R.A.F. Parchment Certificate of Service.

A rare Second War B.E.M. awarded to Corporal Ermis Alexandrou, Intelligence Corps, for services on the Syrian frontier gathering information from or about passengers on the Taurus Express train route between Baghdad and Aleppo 1942-44 British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (5444177 Cpl. Ermis Alexandrou. I.C.) mounted on original investiture pin, very fine £300-£400 --- B.E.M. London Gazette 14 June 1945. The original recommendation (Air 2/9094) states: ‘From May, 1942 until December, 1944 this N.C.O. has been stationed at the lonely Syrian Frontier Station of Tel Kotchek upon the Taurus express route between Baghdad and Aleppo. His has been the difficult and delicate task of actually carrying out the searches of all suspect persons proceeding out of and into Iraq on this train - the ideal medium of enemy espionage. He has had to carry in his head all manner of detailed information about the personalities of travellers and the potential contents of their baggage; as the occasion demanded he has had to be tactful, nonchalant or ruthless, the two hour stop of every Taurus Express at Tel Kotchek demands of him an intense concentration, a lightening eye and a crystal clear brain. Other N.C.O.s who have been tried here have all been too impulsive, too diffident to too lenient. This N.C.O. has devoted all his powers to his intricate job; it is no exaggeration to say that this man’s whole life has been bound up with the Taurus Express; during all this time he has never faltered, never missed an opportunity. The information that he has obtained and the articles which he has seized have been of inestimable value to the Combined Intelligence Centre, Baghdad. In short he has succeeded brilliantly at an extremely difficult and unenviable task.’

A post-War ‘Civil Division’ B.E.M. group of three awarded to Sergeant W. H. Meldon, Metropolitan Police British Empire Medal, (Civil) E.II.R. (William Henry Meldon) in Royal Mint case of issue; Defence Medal; Police L.S. & G.C., G.VI.R. (Sergt William H Meldon) in named card box of issue, nearly extremely fine (3) £180-£220 --- B.E.M. London Gazette 1 January 1965. William Henry Meldon was born in Ottery St. Mary, Devon, on 7 April 1909, and joined the Metropolitan Police on 28 October 1929, being posted to the Hammersmith Division. He was advanced Sergeant on 21 December 1936, and was posted to West End Central in 1943, where ‘he played major parts in the good work done in connection with clubs, illegal betting and gaming, brothels, and disorderly houses.’ He was awarded his Long Service and Good Conduct Medal on 25 January 1952, and, having been twice commended, in 1954 and 1956, was awarded the British Empire Medal in the 1965 New Year’s Honours’ List. He retired to pension on 1 May 1966, and was subsequently employed as the Chief Security Officer at the Hilton Hotel, Park Lane, London. He died on 9 June 1987. old with the named Buckingham Palace enclosure for the B.E.M., mounted in a glazed frame; named 10 Downing Street letter regarding the awarded of the B.E.M., dated 28 December 1964, with accompanying envelope; Metropolitan Police Certificate of Discharge, dated 2 May 1966; newspaper cutting announcing the award of the B.E.M., with a photograph of the recipient; two further photographs of the recipient; the recipient’s Hilton Hotel business card; and copied research.

A Great War 1918 ‘Western Front’ D.C.M., 1918 M.M. and Second Award Bar group of five awarded to Sergeant T. S. Purves, 1st Battalion, Royal Scots Fusiliers, for his gallantry in tackling a fire after 20 direct hits had been taken on the Livens Gas Projector in his trench - the latter were used for hurling cylinders of liquid gas from hundreds of steel tubes sunk into the ground Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (6581 Sjt: T. S. Purves. M.M. 1/R. Sc: Fus:); Military Medal, G.V.R., with Second Award Bar (6581 Pte - Cpl - T. S. Purves. 1/R. S. Fus:); 1914 Star, with loose clasp (6581 Pte T. Purvis. [Sic] 1/R. Sc: Fus.); British War and Victory Medals (6581 Sjt. T. Purvis. D.C.M: M.M. R.S. Fus.) last two renamed, generally very fine (5) £1,200-£1,600 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 30 October 1918: ‘For most conspicuous gallantry when the front line trench and gas projector emplacement were being very heavily shelled. About twenty direct hits were made on the emplacement, setting on fire the camouflage covering the projectors. This N.C.O., with complete disregard for his personal safety, rushed out with water to extinguish the fire, and while still under very heavy shelling succeeded in overcoming the flames. His action showed a splendid example of self-sacrifice, quick decision and courage.’ M.M. London Gazette 25 January 1918. M.M. Second Award Bar London Gazette 29 August 1918. Thomas S. Purves was a native of Edinburgh. He served during the Great War with the 1st Battalion, Royal Scots Fusiliers on the Western Front. MIC gives Purves as applying for some replacement medals in October 1927 - it does not specify which, or indeed whether it was successful, but this may well explain the renamed BWM and VM.