The Field Officers Gold Medal for Corunna 1809 Awarded to Major William Williams 81st Regiment of Foot, Wounded Multiple Times During the Peninsular War and Served with the 13th Regiment of Foot in North America During the War of 1812, medal named in the correct style “MAJOR WILLIAM WILLIAMS 1ST BN 81ST “. Period repair to the suspension, complete with the original lunettes and ribbon with gold ribbon buckle. Remains in good condition. Sir William Williams K.C.B., K.T.S. 1776 – 1832. He purchased his ensigncy in the 54th Regiment in 1792, during the 2 years following he served in the Low countries under the Duke of York. Promoted to Lieutenant in Sept 1793 he proceeded to the West indies where he was wounded during the action at St. Vincent. In 1796 he was a Captain and returned to the British Isles to help suppress the rebellion in Ireland. He then went to Egypt under Sir Ralph Abercromby and was said to have been the first soldier to land in Egypt and was involved in every action. In 1802 he was Brevet Major being given a substantive rank in the 81st 2 years later. Wounded for the second time at Corunna, he then participated in the expedition to Walcheren and in November 1809 he was posted to 5/60th as Lieut.-Colonel. Wounded twice at Bussaco, once a Fuentes D’Onor and after being wounded for the 6th time at Salamanca he transferred to 13th Regiment stationed in North America being involved in the fighting at Lake Champlain and Plattsburg. At St.Johns, New Brunswick he was in command of the advanced posts on the Richelieu river when the attack by the American General Wilkinson was repulsed. In 1815 he became a K.C.B. and became a Major General in 1830 dying at home in Bath 2 years later. For his service at Corunna, Fuentes D’Onor, Cuidad Rodrigo, Badajoz and Salamanca he was awarded the Army Gold Cross with 1 clasp. In 1813 he received the Portuguese Order of the Tower and Sword. Major William Williams arrived in Spain with 2/81st as part of Sir David Baird Contingent when they landed at Corunna between the 13th and 26th October 1808. Baird’s troops joined with Moore’s main force on 20th December. Lieutenant General Sir John Moores victory at Sahagun on 21st December 1808 had confirmed the position of the British army in Spain and caused Napoleon to redirect the majority of his forces away from recently captured Madrid to pursue the British in an attempt to block their access to the coast (and the possibility of escape). Realising he was severely outnumbered, with Napoleon having some 250,000 troops at his disposal and his having beaten the Spanish army, Sir John Moore realised that his only option was to ‘run for it’ back to the coast to escape by sea. Thus, on 25th December the British army began its retreat over 250 miles of inhospitable mountainous terrain through snow and ice continually being harried by the advancing French troops. It is estimated that the British Army lost some 5000 men during the retreat. The main body of the British army arrived at Corunna on the 11th of January 1809 to find that only 26 of the 270 transport ships had arrived with the rest being delayed at Vigo due to contrary winds. Moor took the opportunity to re-equip his army with the 5000 muskets and ammunition taken from the stores at Corunna, the remaining munitions of almost 12,000 barrels of powder and 300,000 musket cartridges in 2 magazines were destroyed in massive explosions on 14th January to prevent then being captured by the French. On the same day the ships arrived in the harbour and Moore began to embark the troops starting with artillery and cavalry. To cover the embarkation Moore had selected a defensive position on a ridge of high ground approximately 2 miles south of Corunna. On 15th January Marshal Soult manoeuvred his forces onto the higher ridges opposite. Moore deployed his army to face the French with Hopes Division on the left and Baird on the right. Soult planned to make his main thrust with Mermet’s division around the village of Elvina intending to turn Moores flank and roll up his line whilst the rest of the British line would be kept occupied by Merle and Delaborde’s Divisions. On the afternoon of the 16th January Moore, convinced there would be no action that day had just started to withdraw some of his troops so that they could embark when the French launched their attack. As the French batteries fired, two of Mermet’s brigades advanced toward the village of Elvina pushing back the picquets of the 4th and 50th Foot. The French 31me Léger approached the village in 2 columns whilst the 47me Line went to outflank the village on the left. Moore rode to the right flank and instructed the 4th to throw back their right wing to protect against the encircling movement, meanwhile Baird had ordered the 42nd forward to counterattack. The 50th then advanced against the 31me Léger’s left column the fighting that followed was confused with the Battalion becoming broken up into small groups and the 50th was ordered to withdraw leaving the village in French hands. Baird’s Divisional reserves, the 1st Foot Guards, were called up and the 42nd believing they were being relieved started to withdraw until Moore intervened to prevent this. Soon after Moore fell from his horse with a mortal wound having been struck on the shoulder by a round shot. The fighting in Elvina continued until dusk, Mermet fed in his reserves, the reinforced British still could not fully eject the French from the village. Merle tried to support the French in the village by advancing his left wing toward the village, but this was countered by Manningham who advance the 1st and 81st down the slope to attack the flank of the 4me Léger. The French turned to meet the attack and a desperate fight lasting 2 hours followed with Merle supporting his men with the 2me Léger. The 81st suffered considerable casualties and had run out of ammunition, they were then replaced by the 59th. After a further advance by Merle on the right flank the French withdrew. As darkness fell at 6.00pm the fighting ceased across the whole battlefield without either side having made any territorial advantage. During the fighting the 81st suffered 30 dead and 133 wounded of which Major William Williams was one. Later that evening the British army began to withdraw from its positions leaving campfires and picquets to conceal their departure. The embarkation continued through the night and it wasn’t until 8am the following day that the French realised the British had retired and so advanced on the town. The last rear-guard left the town on January 18th with the Spanish garrison waiting until the fleet was at sea before surrendering. The fleet embarked some 26,000 men over the 5 days.
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Great War 1914-15 Star Trio and Silver War Badge Medal Group to a Chief Petty Officer in the Royal Navy, 1914-15 star, British War medal, Victory medal all named “145892 A. HAYES C.P.O. R.N”., with Silver War badge RN35869. This lot comes with a commercial book of photo postcards showing the aftermath of the Zeebrugge raid, an enamel buttonhole badge ‘Zeebrugge 1918’, metal identity tag and an interesting autograph book containing signed drawings, photos, poems and dedications. Most of the content appears to be from the Great War but there are some later additions. Noted amongst the contributors to the book is the poem by A.E. McKenzie A.B. H.M.S. Neptune who was awarded a Victoria Cross by ballot for the Zeebrugge raid. Born in Islington on 27th June 1872, Arthur Hayes started his Naval career as a Boy 2nd class on Impregnable in June 1888 and served through to June 1912 when he was discharged to pension. Re-joining for the war in August 1914 he was eventually invalided out in July 1919. SWB number confirmed as correct to Hayes.
WW1 Royal Navy Long Service Medal Group of Four to Chief Sick Berth Steward W J Hicks HMS Formidable, consisting 1914-15 Star “350267 W J HICKS CH S.B.S. RN”, British War and Victory medals “350267 W J HICKS CSBS RN” and an Edward VII Royal Navy Long Service and Good Conduct medal “350267 W J HICKS S B STEWD HMS FORMIDABLE”. William John Hicks was born in Wandsworth Surrey on 18th July 1870 and commenced his naval service as a Probationer Sick Berth Attendant on 1st October 1894 at the Royal Nay Hospital Haslar. His Long Service medal was awarded in October 1909 and the following month he was promoted to Chief Sick Berth Steward whilst still serving on HMS Formidable. At the outbreak of the Great War, he was serving on the Hospital Ship Rohilla and was still serving on the ship when she ran aground on Saltwick Nab (1 mile east of Whitby) and was lost on 30th October 1914.Due to rough seas the rescue operation lasted over 3 days with 146 of the 229 on board being rescued. The rescue operation resulted in the award of 2 Royal National Lifeboat Institution Gold medals. The rest of his war service was in the somewhat safer environment of the Chatham base (Pembroke 1 and RN Hospital). He was eventually discharged in December 1919.
A Rare Imperial Russian Order of St George Medal Group of Four Awarded to RNAS Armoured Cars For Gallantry in Romania in 1917 with Commander Oliver Locker-Lampson, the group comprises 1914-15 star “F.3051 F.W.FEAR P.O.M. R.N.A.S.”, British War medal and Victory medal “79603 SJT. F.W.FEAR M.G.C” and a Russian Cross of St. George 4th class, numbered on the reverse 898670. Russian cross of St George No. 898670 is confirmed as awarded to 3051 P.O. F.Fear for ‘Bravery under fire, Jan. 1917, Romania’ (ADM171/74 - Decorations awarded to ratings of British Armoured Division in Russia). Also Mentioned in Dispatches – L.G. 11 August 1917. Frederick William Fear was born in Lewisham in January 1896 and gave his occupation as engineer when he enlisted into the Royal Naval Air Service on 12th Jan 1915. He initially served with the armoured cars in France from May 1915 before transferring to the Russian front with the Armoured Car Division in December of the same year. His record indicates that he was ‘slightly wounded whilst serving with Armoured Cars in Romania(sic) (Telegram dated 30/12/16)’. Returning to the England in September 1917 he then transferred to the Machine Gun Corps serving with the Motorised Section being discharged Class Z in April 1919. His BWM and VM are confirmed as being issued by the War Office.
Great War Medal Group of Four to a Member of the Royal Naval Air Service Who Served in Armoured Cars on the Western Front, Later Transferring to Otranto in Italy, the group consists of 1914-15 star “F1200 W.J. HARRIS A.M.1 R.N.A.S.”, British War and Victory medals “201200 1 A.M. W.J. HARRIS R.A.F”. and a Defence Medal (unnamed as issued). Group is accompanied by the recipients original Certificate of Employment During The War, a 1936 annual reunion program for No6 Wing RNAS and 66 & 67 Wings RAF and an extensive photographic archive of his service with armoured cars (No.8 Sqdn Armoured Cars noted). William John Harris was born in Honiton Devon in June 1894. He was rated as Petty Officer Mechanic upon his enlistment in the RNAS on 6th November 1914 and this was most likely due to his pre-war occupation being that of Chauffeur. Transferring from Pembroke to President II in April 1915 he commenced his service with armoured cars which ended in March 1917 when he transferred to Otranto in Italy eventually serving with 66 and 67 Wings R.A.F. His time in Ialy continued through until May 1919 and he was eventually discharged to the Royal Air Force Reserve on 20th June 1919.
Great War Royal Naval Air Service / Royal Air Force Observers Medal & Log Book Grouping, consisting of British War and Victory medals “LIEUT F.L. MORRISON R.A.F.”, in card boxes of issue. This lot also includes numerous items of insignia, his original flying goggles and wrist compass. Selection of original documents including a Duty Ration Book, Signal card book with handwritten notes and his RNAS Pilots Flying Log Book inscribed FL MORRISON SUB LIEUT RNVR on the front cover and covering the period from 16th October 1916 to his last flight on 14th October 1918. Frank Leslie Morrison was born in Brighton on the 24th August 1892. Enlisting into the RNAS in August 1915 his service number was F7491 and his occupation was that of a Draughtsman. In October 1916 was granted a Commission as a Sub-Lieutenant in the RNVR for meteorological duties with this terminating in April 1917 when following his training he was appointed an Observer Sub-Lieutenant. Serving in Greenwich, Eastchurch, Vindex, East Fortune and Orotava he then transferred to the RAF with service in 278 and 206 Sqns before being transferred to the unemployed list on 24th March 1919. Medal entitlement confirmed as BWM and VM only. He was married in April 1922 and by 1939 he was living with his wife Alice in Woking with his occupation shown as a Public Works Contractor, he was also a volunteer A.R.P. warden. Frank Leslie Morrison died in Woking in July 1977.
WW1 16th Canadian Scottish Officers Medal Pair, consisting of British War and Victory medals “LIEUT W B MC CONNELL”, accompanied by hallmarked silver identity disc engraved “W.B. Mc CONNEL LIEUT 16TH CANADIAN SCOTTISH” and bronze officers cap badge with brooch pin fitted. William Bradford McConnell, born 4th July 1889 in Vancouver British Columbia. Attested 23/9/14. Commissioned 21/11/16. Seriously wounded 1/5/17 GSW L leg, L shoulder, R knee, elbow and hand, record shows DOW but corrected to dangerously ill. Left leg amputated at knee but second amputation at thigh carried out due to gangrene setting in at original amputation site. Record indicates caused by HE shell. Died 30/11/31, memorial cross seems to have been issued to his mother (nok). Ex Jerry Withers collection.
Grouping of Medals and Associated Items of 10th (Scottish) Battalion Kings Liverpool Regiment Interest, consisting of British War and Victory medals “4448 A. SJT. F.H. JONES L’POOL R”, 1939-45 star and a War medal 1939-45 (both unnamed as issued). Lot also includes 4 brass and enamel officers rank pips, a pair of Queen Alexandra’s Imperial military Nursing Reserve collar badges (Kings crown) and a white metal identity bracelet engraved ‘Sister G.G. Jones, Q.a.i.m.n. S.R., C.E.’ with the reverse engraved ‘2/RJ/676’. Frederick Henry Jones, born 1888 and gave his address as Osbourne Road, Tuebrook upon enlistment into 10th (Scottish) Bn. The Kings (Liverpool Regiment). Arriving in France in February 1917 he was later transferred to the Labour Corps serving in 64th POW Company and was demobbed in March 1919 giving his address as Mornington Avenue, Ilford, Essex. (Not been possible to determine the relationship of the other medals and items in this lot)
Great War Territorial Force Efficiency Medal Group of Three 1st Wessex Field Ambulance Royal Army Medical Corps, group consists of British War medal and Victory medals “1690 S.SJT S. J. BASTIN R.A.M.C.” with a George V Territorial Force Efficiency medal “457053 S.SJT S.J.BASTIN R.A.M.C.” Medals remain in good condition. TFEM awarded A.O.363 August 1921, 1st Wessex Field Ambulance R.A.M.C. T.F. Wessex
3x Brass Duty / Bed Plates of Coldstream Guards Interest, all with regimental badge and impressed to “22214211 FRYER G”, “2655736 P MEREDITH D.C.M” and “4912193 G F ROSE”. Guardsman Meredith was awarded the Distinguished Conduct medal in 1940 for operations at Dunkirk. Ex Jerry Withers collection.
An Unusual Medal Group of Three Covering Service in the Royal Navy Reserve and Devonshire Regiment, group consists of British War medal and Victory medals “268460 PTE R. PRYNN DEVON R.” with a Royal Navy Reserve Long Service and Good Conduct medal EVII named “D4159 R. PRYNN SEAN 1CL R.N.R.”, medals remain in good overall condition. Richard Prynn served with 2/6 Devonshire Regiment and was disembodied 14/4/1919. The RNR LSGC medal to R. Prynn was issued on 15/7/1910 being sent to Fowey in Cornwall, it has not been possible to locate the RNR service record for Prynn.
WW1 Submarine E.37 Casualty Victory Medal, awarded to “K3353 GE WOODGER ACT SPO RN”, who was killed on HM Submarine E.37 when she was lost with all hands in the North Sea on 3rd December 1916. Born in East Malling, Kent on the 1st December 1887, George Edward Woodger was 1 of 12 children to Alfred and Dorcas Woodger he entered the Royal Navy in April 1907 with the service number SS104960 and was renumbered as K3353 in June 1909. The reason for the loss of E37 is unknown but it is possible that she struck a mine whilst on patrol in the North Sea. Also entitled to a 1914-15 star and British War Medal all of which were issued to his daughter. He is commemorated on the Chatham Naval Memorial.
WW1 Royal Navy Medal Pair, consisting of 1914-15 star and British War Medal “D.A 8277 C R WITHERS D.H. R.N.R”; WW2 campaign medal group of four consisting of 1939-45 star, France & Germany star, 1939-45 Defence medal and 1939-45 War medal privately named “CPL F HEIDINGER”; Punjab 1848-49 medal, disc only with evidence of brooch removal, impressed naming “GUNNER D ANDERSON 4TH CY 3RD BATTN ARTY”; Nepal Order of the Three Divine Powers (Tri Shakti Patta) housed in a white card box with printed label “2543 METROPOLITAN Ch. Inspr ALBERT E. PERKINS”.
Rare Naval Cap Tally for a Crewman of the R.M.S Lusitania, extremely rare original pre-WW1 naval cap tally in typical construction like the WW1 Royal Navy cap tallies, fine black cloth with gold metallic lettering “R.M.S. LUSITANIA” flanked by the Union flag and also the American stars and stripes. The tally appears to be full length and remains in very good condition. Very few original period cap tallies are around in private collections. This tally is believed to be for a crewman of the ship. The RMS Lusitania was a cruise liner of the Cunard Line. The ship was famous as it was sunk in 1915 by German U-Boat U-20, the ship was on its return from the USA, killing 1,198 passengers and crew. The ship was not armed and nearly all the passengers were civilians, women and children. The sinking of the ship caused mass hysteria and the British Government used this as a propaganda tool to help convince the USA to join the war against Germany. The German government argued that the ship was a casualty of war and that she was carrying war munitions and equipment from the USA to England. The well known propaganda “Lusitania medal” was struck to commemorate the sinking of this famous ship, probably only the Titanic is a more famous ship of the 20th century.
An Interesting Great War and Second World War Medal Group of Seven Awarded to an Officer Present on HMS Conquest During the German Naval Raid on Lowestoft in April 1916 When the Ship Was Hit by Five 12-inch Shells, Suffering 23 Killed and 13 Wounded, group consists of 1914-15 star “LIEUT. C. B. ELBROW R.N.”, British War and Victory medals “LIEUT. C. B. ELBROW R.N.”, 1939-45 star, Defence and War medals (unnamed as issued) and a French Croix De Guerre 1914-1917. Group is accompanied by a selection of presentation silverware relating to Elbrow including wedding gifts. Croix de Guerre appeared in the London Gazette 17th May 1918. Claude Bertram Elbrow, the son of Engineer Rear-Admiral George Elbrow, was born in Stoke on 5th December 1888 and entered the Royal Navy in September 1903 as a Cadet in Britannia. Appointed Midshipman in February 1905he was promoted to Lieutenant in December 1910 and was serving as Navigating Officer on the cruiser Andromache when war broke out in August 1914. In early March 1915 he transferred to HMS Conquest and was on board on board when Conquest intercepted the German cruisers that were attacking Yarmouth and Lowestoft and in the following fight she suffered 23 killed and 13 wounded. In July 1918 he transferred to HMS Dragon and was promoted to Lieutenant Commander in December 1918. Present on Dragon during her operations off the coast of North America and Canada he transfers to Dryad in September 1919 eventually retiring with the rank of Commander in October 1929. In December 1929 he accepted the appointment as Assistant Port Officer in Basrah. Recalled during the Second World War his health deteriorated and he was admitted to the Royal Naval Hospital Chatham in October 1942 due to Angina. Claude Elbrow died in November 1943. Group ex R.C.Witte Collection, DNW Dec 2007.
Great War & WW2 Naval Long Service Medal Group of Five HMS Cumberland, consists of British War medal “J69527 G. E. SLAUGHTER O.TEL R.N.”, Atlantic star, Defence medal, War medal 1939-45 (the 3 unnamed as issued), Royal Navy Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (GV, coinage head) “J69527 G. E. SLAUGHTER H.M.S. CUMBERLAND”. Also with Admiralty named condolence slip EDWARD GEORGE SLAUGHTER, confirming the issue of 3 medals. Also entitled to a Victory medal records indicate his medals were originally returned to the mint with duplicates being issued in December 1940. George Edward Slaughter was born in Enfield, London on 14 April 1900. He entered the Royal Navy as a Boy II in April 1917 and having been awarded his long service medal in July 1933 he continued to serve into the Second World war receiving his pension in April 1940. Eventually invalided out of the service in in February 1943 he died in October 1946 before his WW2 medals could be issued. Group in sold with a newspaper cutting and correspondence with Commonwealth War Graves Commission regarding the death and commemoration of Flying Officer Donald Jack Slaughter who was killed in action with 410 (R.C.A.F.) Squadron on 18/7/43 and is buried in the Dieppe Canadian War Cemetery, Hautot-sur-Mer, France.
Royal Navy Long Service Medal Group of Eight for Service in Both World Wars, consisting of British War medal “SS9524 P.W. LANGFORD ORD. RN”, 1939-45 star, Atlantic star, Africa star, Italy star, Defence medal, War medal 1939-45 and a Royal Navy Long Service and Good Conduct medal GV (coinage head) “K62050 P.W. LANGFORD L. STO. H.M.S. NELSON”. BWM confirmed as sole entitlement for the Great War. Percy William Langford was born in Eastbourne, Sussex, on 14th August 1900 and entered the Royal Navy as an Ordinary Seaman in August 1918. In September 1919 he transferred to the stoker branch as an Acting Stoker 1st class with the service number SS124712 and in August 1923 he was renumbered as K62050. Awarded his Long Service medal in November 1933 he was serving on Belfast at the start of hostilities in September 1939. He died on 5th June 1947 aged 46 as a Chief Stoker on HMS Victory X. He is commemorated by a Commonwealth War Graves Commission headstone in Gosport (Ann’s Hill) Cemetery.
An Intriguing Group of Six Medals Attributed to a Member of the Mercantile Marine Who Felt the Need to Enhance His Medal Entitlement for his Service in the Great War, group consists of 1914-15 star unofficially engraved “R.S.2 853339 F.C.R. KERSWELL R.N.T.”, British War medal “FREDERICK C.R. KERSWELL”, Mercantile Marine War medal “FREDERICK C.R. KERSWELL”, Victory medal unofficially engraved “R.S.853335 F.C. KERSWELL R.N.T.”, Lloyd’s Medal For Meritorious Service, 3rd Type in bronze edge engraved “F C KERSWELL. DEC. 1911”., Defence medal 1939-45. With a matching mounted group of miniature medals and many post war family photos. Frederick Charles Roland Kerswell was born in Hastings in February 1893 and served as an Assistant Steward in the Mercantile Marine during the Great War. He obviously felt that he should have been entitled to additional medals and so added the engraved star and Victory medal (the ‘service’ number on these medals is his Merchant Navy Identity Certificate number). The Lloyds medal has not been traced but it would seem unlikely that this medal was awarded to him as the 3rd type in bronze was not introduced until 1917. Frederick Kerswell appears on the 1939 Register in Hastings as a ‘States Enquiry Agent who was also an A.R.P. Warden, he died in October 1968.
Great War & Iraq Campaign Medal Group of Five 6th County of London Regiment and Royal Army Pay Corps, consisting British War medal and Victory medals “6899 PTE W. KINGABY 6-LOND R”, a General Service medal 1918-62 clasp Iraq “7657478 CPL W KINGABY R.A.P.C.” with a Defence and War medal 1939-45, un-named as issued. Group mounted as worn. William Kingaby was born in Leytonstone, Essex in 1891. He initially served with the 6th London Regiment later transferring to the Army Pay Corp (service number 5642) and then being renumbered as 7657478 in the Royal Army Pay Corps with whom he served in Iraq. In 1923 he re-attested for service in the Queens Royal West Surrey Regiment stating his trade as a Clerk with 4 years and 116 days prior military service, he was discharged on 4th April 1927.
Medal Groups to the Flower & Eckett Family, British War medal and Victory medal to “ENG. LT. J. S. FLOWER RNR”, British War medal and Mercantile Marine War medal named to “THOMAS W ECKETT”; Imperial Service medal ERII named “MORNINGTON MALIE ECKETT”, in case of issue and outer card case. John Sheardon Flower was commissioned into the RNR as Engineering Lieutenant on board the harbour oiler RFA Kimmerol. His service was terminated 18/4/1919 with his home address noted as Wanstead, London. Great War entitlement confirmed as BWM and VM only. Thomas William Eckett was born in Southampton in 1878, information supplied by the vendor indicates service as an Engineers Writer. Claim for medals made September 1919. Imperial Service Medal appeared in the London Gazette 17th April 1979, Draughtsman Hight Grade, Ordnance Survey. See next lot for Royal Air Force Military Medal Group to Group Captain Leslie Ralph Flower, son of John Flower. Sold by direct descendent of family, sold on behalf of RAF Benevolent Fund.
The Extremely Rare and Possibly Unique WW2 MBE (Military) and Dunkirk Evacuation Military Medal (M.M) Medal Group of Acting Group Captain Leslie Ralph Flower of the Royal Air Force, An Unusual Example of an Army Gallantry Award to a Member of the RAF For Service at Sea, group consists of M.B.E. 2nd type Military, Military Medal GVI “517225 CPL L. R. FLOWER R.A.F.”, 1939-45 star, Atlantic star, Defence medal, War medal 1939-45 (last 4 unnamed as issued), General Service medal 1918-62 ERII with clasp Malaya “FLT LT. L. R. FLOWER R.A.F”. - Group mounted as worn by the recipient. This group is sold with the following related items, Original bestowal document for the award of the MBE, named to Pilot Officer Leslie Ralph Flower MM RAF and dated 2nd June 1943. Also with case for MBE. Recipients Dunkirk medal in card box of issue. A framed picture (59 x 69.5cm) with caricatures of the members of the officer’s mess RAF Felixstowe, dated October 1949. An engraved silver (h/m Birmingham 1970) presentation cigarette box. The engraving on the lid depicts the Long Range Recovery and Search Craft of the type introduced by Group Captain Flower during his time as Director RAF Marine Craft. The engraving on the front depicts the Seaplane Tender which Group Captain Flower took to Dunkirk in 1940. The inscription on the inside of the lid reads ‘Presented to Group Captain L R Flower MBE MM RAF by the Officers and Airmen of the Marine Branch November 1970’. A cased model, by Brian Williams, of RAF High Speed Launch 127 deploying in support of Operation Jubilee (Dieppe raid 19th August 1942). Flying Officer Flower was Master of this craft during the operation. Presentation plaque with crest for RAF Mount Batten, presented to Group Captain Flower on his retirement from the service. Plaque inscribed ‘Presented to Gp Capt L R Flower MBE, MM RAF from the Officers and Men of RAF Mount Batten November 1970’. 2 printed folders of supporting information providing details of Group Captain Flowers service career and including an extremely detailed account of his involvement in the Dunkirk evacuation written by the Group Captain himself. Memory stick containing an audio file of an interview given by Grp Cpt Flower to Radio Solent on the 50th anniversary of Dunkirk. M.B.E Military – London Gazette 2nd June 1943. Information from the vendor indicates that this award relates to his time at RAF Carsewall when he led the rescue of a number of flying boats that had broken free of their moorings during a storm, thus keeping the unit operational. Military Medal – London Gazette 1st January 1941 ‘The King has been graciously pleased to approve the following awards in recognition of gallant conduct’, The original citation for the Military medal reads; “One Pinnace and 5 Seaplane Tenders left Calshot at 0430 hours on Thursday, 30th May, and proceeded to Dunkirk to assist in the evacuation of the B.E.F. They were towed by a tug but owing to rough weather the tow had to be cast off and the boats were ordered to proceed under their power. They were then engaged on the very difficult task of ferrying soldiers from the beach to larger vessels lying off the shore. During this operation, although not individually attacked, they were constantly under shell fire and subject to raids. Under difficult circumstances of a lee shore and heavy swell it has been reported that some 500 men were taken off and saved. In the process two Seaplane Tenders were lost, one through over-crowding and the second through damage to propellers and subsequent grounding. On Sunday, the 2nd June, two Seaplane Tenders were required to perform a special duty. The crews were selected from volunteers. During the passage to Dunkirk the two boats were first bombed and then repeatedly machine -gunned by three enemy aircraft. In the attacks Seaplane Tender No.243 was sunk and of the officers, crew and passengers, only one was saved. Seaplane Tender No.276, of which Corporal Flower was in charge, was ordered by the Senior Naval Officer present to carry on to Dunkirk in execution of orders. During the whole of the operations in which the Seaplane Tenders were involved, the coxswains and crews showed a strong sense of discipline and duty. In this, the work of Corporal Flower and his crew is specially mentioned. After being subjected to bombing and machine gun fire, in which his starboard engine throttle controls were shot away, Corporal Flower, when ordered to do so, carried on to Dunkirk, completed his task and returned to Dover with only one engine serviceable. It is considered that the resourcefulness of Corporal Flower and his crew contributed to saving Seaplane Tender No. 276 and the personnel on board when attacked. Thus, a machine gun mounting was improvised out of a towing bollard, engine starting handle, tubing and rope. From this they were able to maintain a high rate of fire with their Lewis Gun. Corporal Flower, during the operation of the 30th May and 2nd June, carried out his duties in a most commendable way and is therefore strongly recommended for the award of the Empire Gallantry Medal or the British Empire Medal for Meritorious Service.’
A Very Fine Second World War Bomber Command Pathfinder Force Distinguished Flying Cross And Second Award Bar Group of Six, Awarded To A Navigator In 405 Squadron (R.C.A.F.), A Police Officer In His Civilian Life, consisting of George VI Distinguished Flying Cross officially engraved 1944, with additional private engraving “FLT G.W. GILLESPIE DFC AND BAR”, second award bar officially engraved 1945, 1939-45 star, Air Crew Europe star, Defence medal, War Medal 1939-45 all un-named as issued, and a EIIR Police Long Service and Good Conduct medal “CH. INSPR GEOFFREY F. W. GILLESPIE”. Group mounted on bar as worn – Note 1939-45 star and ACE star are on the wrong ribbons. Also with mounted matching group of miniature medals but missing DFC bar and Police LSGC medal. D.F.C. London Gazette 14/11/1944 – Acting Flight Lieutenant, Geoffrey Frank Waller GILLESPIE (141555) R.A.F.V.R. 405 (R.C.A.F.) Sqn. Recommendation dated 20th August 1944 states ‘41 sorties (195 hours). This officer is a skilled and capable navigator in a very successful crew. Flight Lieutenant Gillespie has a long and varied operational career, and has, on many occasions, been placed in imminent personal danger. In spite of this fact he has not veered from his allotted tasks, but has shown a coolness and dogged devotion which has set a magnificent example to all fellow members of his crew. Strongly recommended for the non-immediate award of the Distinguished Flying Cross’. Bar to D.F.C. London Gazette 23/3/1945 - Acting Flight Lieutenant, Geoffrey Frank Waller GILLESPIE D.F.C. (141555) R.A.F.V.R. 405 (R.C.A.F.) Sqn. Recommendation ‘Since previous award sorties 13; flying hours 55. Throughout two tours of operations Flying Officer Gillespie has displayed outstanding navigational skills and devotion to duty. He has participated in numerous attacks against such vital targets as Berlin, Stuttgart and Frankfurt. Since the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross he has maintained a high standard of cool courage and determination.’ Geoffrey Frank Waller Gillespie was born on 27th July 1912 in Lewisham, by 1939 he is a Police Inspector living in Croydon, Surrey with his wife Marjory. Promoted to Flying Officer in October 1943 he took part in his first bombing mission (to Berlin) on 23rd December 1943 with 405 (RCAF) squadron in an Avro Lancaster. This was then followed by 6 further missions to Berlin before the middle of February 1944 when he then moved on to other targets in Germany Belgium and France. The squadron, as part of No.8 (Pathfinder) Group, were responsible for the marking the targets for the main bombing force and so Gillespie’s role as navigator would have been key in the correct positioning of the markers and hence the success of the bombing raid. For the daylight missions to Bottrop (30/9/44) and the Scheldt Gun Batteries (11/10/44) his aircraft was designated ‘Master Bomber’ and in that role they would circle the target broadcasting instructions to both Pathfinder and Main Force aircraft, correcting aiming points and co-ordinating the attack. Post war he returned to policing duties and he died on 15th January 1974 in Hillingdon, London.
Victorian Naval Long Service Good Conduct Medal HMS Dart, example named around the rim “H WEEDON CHF CARPRS MTE HMS. DART 21 YRS”. Medal disc only, brooch mounted. Born 12 April 1821, Bermondsey London. Joined Navy 26th Feb 1844 HMS Camperdown. Served for a total of 27 years 155 days being discharged 25th Sept 1873 as a Shipwright. Entitled to Baltic medal serving on HMS Blenheim. LSGC issued 1865.Ex Jerry Withers collection
WW2 Royal Air Force Bomber Command Medal & Log Book Grouping of Flying Officer (Pilot) Ronald K Cawdery No50 Squadron, interesting grouping comprising of two RAF pilots log books and medal group of 1939-45 star, France & Germany star, Defence medal and 1939-45 War medal. The first log book is his South African issue example, which is where he spent most of his wartime service training, many entries in the log for training exercises etc. He finally qualified as a pilot in 1945 and took part in some of the last bombing operations of the war, including the attacks on Moblis, Lutzchendorf and Pilsen, all in April 1945. The other log book has a few entries noted, all being late 1945/46 once the war was over and whilst waiting to be demobbed. Accompanying the group are some photocopied images from his service and newspaper cuttings etc.
WW2 National Fire Service District No38 (Wimbledon, London) Steel Helmet Grouping of Fireman J H Burden, fine 1939 dated British steel helmet with original paint finish and decal transfer for the National Fire Service and district number 38. Complete with its original liner and damaged webbing chinstrap. Accompanying the helmet is his original 1939-45 Defence medal and Fire Brigade Exemplary Service medal named “FIREMAN JAMES H BURDEN”, also accompanied by London Fire Brigade / London County Council Good Service medal named around rim to “JAMES H BURDEN 1954” with forwarding document. British No4 MkII bayonet and WW1 Medal pair awarded to his father, “G-20435 PTE H J BURDEN R SUSS R”.
WW2 Royal Navy 1944 Casualty Medal Group of Three, medals awarded to C/LX 602724 Assistant Steward Robert Henley Tucker, RN. Group comprises 1939-45 star, Atlantic star and 1939-45 War medal with named Admiralty condolence slip “Robert Henley Tucker” in box of issue to his wife Mrs MM Tucker, 105 Pattinson Road, Plumstead London. Medals unnamed as issued. 35-year-old Robert Tucker was sadly killed whilst serving on board Landing Craft Headquarter No. 185 when it struck a mine during Operation Neptune (Normandy Landings) on 25th June 1944. His body was not recovered and he is commemorated on the Chatham Naval Memorial.
WW2 Campaign Medal Set of Four Attributed to Sister J L G Sharp Queen Alexandras Imperial Military Nursing Service Reserve, Group consists of 1939-45 star, Italy star, Defence and War medals in box of issue with army issue slip indicating 4 medals. Box is addressed to MISS J. L. G. SHARP, 13 BROOKVALE AVENUE, BELFAST, N. IRELAND. Medals remain in good condition. The Army List of April 1943 list a Miss J L G sharp as a Sister in the Queen Alexandra’s Imperial Military Nursing Service Reserve with a seniority date of 3/7/41.
WW2 Campaign Medal Group of Four Attributed to a Former Member of No. 56 (Borough Of Woolwich) Squadron, Air Training Corps who served in the Royal Navy on Aircraft Carriers During the War, group consists of 1939-45 star, Atlantic star, Burma star and a War medal 1939-45 (all unnamed as issued). Medals are accompanied by a selection of original documentation to Harry Virgoe including A.T.C. Certificate of Proficiency (qualified in flight mechanics), ATC Certificate of Service confirming he enrolled in February 1941 and was discharged in July 1943 and his Release from Naval Service document, Fireman Harry Virgoe, No.R296546, discharged from H.M.S. Mersey. Also included in this lot is a collection of original photographs depicting life on an aircraft carrier including some good shots of aircraft on the deck. Harry George Virgoe was born in November 1923 and died in Eastbourne in December 2003.
Tunics of WW1 Gloucestershire Regiment Distinguished Service Order (D.S.O) Winner Captain Edward Benjamin Pope, the first is a blue four pocket patrol tunic with early type Gloucestershire regiment tunic buttons, medal ribbons for the DSO, 1914-15 star, BWM and Allied Victory medal with MID oakleaf. Majors rank crown to the shoulders. No name inside of this tunic. The second tunic is his WW2 period service dress tunic with regimental tunic buttons and officers collar badges. This tunic is named to the interior tailors label. Edward Benjamin Pope was commissioned into the 8th Battalion Gloucestershire regiment in 1915, he appears to have continued to serve with the 8th battalion throughout the war. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Order in 1918, the recommendation for the award was as follows, “Lt (T Capt) Edward Benjamin Pope, Glou R. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty when an important tactical position was in grave3 danger. He succeeded in rallying the line and led forward in face of heavy rifle and machine gun fire. Heavy casualties were inflicted on the enemy, and the line was re-established in its former position. Throughout he showed the greatest courage and resource”.
WW1 French Officers Tunic, fine example of a horizon blue cloth four pocket tunic with stand up collar, gilt metal flaming grenade tunic buttons. Collar with two lines of dark black tress and gilt numeral “5”. Saxon style cuffs with bullion brocade bar on horizon blue cloth just above. Loops for medal ribbon above the breast pocket. Fine quality lined interior of the tunic with two internal breast pockets. Some service wear and some stitching faults with the lining but generally a very good example.
WW2 Gordon Highlanders Officers Service Dress Doublet, fine Highland Cut Away pattern (doublet) service dress tunic with bronze officers regimental collar badges, officers regimental pattern tunic buttons, brass rank insignia to the shoulders. Medal ribbons to the breast for 1914-18 British War medal, Victory medal, 1939-45 star, Africa star, Defence medal and 1939-45 War medal with MID oakleaf. Interior with Meyer & Mortimer Ltd London tailors label having inked name “Capt J D Chalmers”. Good overall condition.
WW2 Submariners Distinguished Service Medal (D.S.M) Group of Six Awarded to Stoker A S Webb, Who Served on the Torbay Under Commander Anthony Miers V.C., D.S.O. Awarded For Gallantry In Working the Periscope During Six Successful Torpedo Attacks, group comprises George VI D.S.M “KX77734 A S WEBB STO.1 HMS TORBAY”, 1939-45 star, Atlantic star, Africa star, Italy star and WW2 War medal, all un-named as issued. DSM London Gazette 7th October 1941 ‘For courage, enterprise and devotion to duty in successful submarine patrols’ with the original recommendation from Miers stating ‘For his good service during 4 war patrols as a Stoker 1st Class in H.M.S Torbay; for the efficiency with which he worked the periscope during 6 successful torpedo attacks; for the enthusiasm he has at all times shown in the performance of his duties and in particular for his skill and resource on the night of 7th June when boarding the tanker Alberta’. Aubrey Spencer Webb was born in Sudbrook Chepstow, Devon on 6th November 1907 and joined the Royal Navy on 3rd February 1927 as a Stoker 2nd class eventually transferring to the Submarine service in May 1930. Joining the Royal Fleet Reserve on 3 Feb 1939 (Po B 20127) he was back to HMS Dolphin at the end of July 1939 eventually joining H.M.S. Torbay in January 1941. HMS Torbay was commissioned in 1940 and joined the 1st Submarine Flotilla in Alexandria in April 1941 and it was her war patrols between May and July that resulted in the award of the DSM to Webb. Peter Padfield, in his book, War Beneath the Sea describes the attack on the tanker Alberta: “On 6 June, after observing much neutral traffic which they were not allowed to touch, since the ‘sink at sight’ zone did not extend to the Aegean, they identified a Vichy French tanker making for the Dardanelles and the Black Sea; Miers ran in to attack. At the last moment the tanker made a radical turn which left him trailing. Ho moved right astern and swung round to fire a single torpedo directly up her wake; it hit, wrecking her propeller and rudder but she still remained afloat and, lacking any power of motion, dropped anchor. Miers hit her with a second torpedo. Still she wouldn’t sink. He waited until after dark, then brought the submarine alongside, bridge Lewis guns at the ready and sent a boarding party (which included Webb) up over the side. She was deserted, but the engine room was flooded and they were unable to open the valves to scuttle her. Instead they parted the anchor cable with a demolition charge so casting her adrift. Two days later she was sighted again, this time under tow. Miers fired a third torpedo but it merely frightened the tug away. Finally, they found her again and put forty shells into her waterline. Even this failed to sink her, but she drifted away and was never salvaged”. Her next patrol was equally successful with her final tally being 1 Italian submarine, the Jacinta, a freighter, another tanker and seven local motor sailing troop and supply transports. It is extremely likely that Webb was present in the patrol where Torbay landed Lieutenant-Colonel Keyes and his raiding party when they landed on the North African coast to attack Rommel’s Head Quarters resulting in the award of the V.C. to Keyes. It seems likely that Webb was serving on board in March 1942 when Miers was awarded his V.C. in the Corfu Roads (his record does still show him serving on Torbay through this period and up to December 1942). Webb was present at the investiture at Buckingham Palace on 28 July 1942 when members of Torbay were decorated for their actions in the Mediterranean; Miers received his V.C., three of his officers received either a D.S.O. or D.S.C. and 24 ratings were rewarded with D.S.M.s (or a bar to a D.S.M). Re-enrolled back in the RFR in February 1944 his service record notes that he enlisted into the Royal Engineers (TA) on 11th April 1949 with the service number 22269844. Also entitled to a Royal Fleet Reserve Long Service and Good Conduct Medal – 26/12/41. Ex Ron Penhall Collection.
WW2 British Army Major Generals Battle Dress Blouse CBE DSO & Bar and Military Cross Winner, an interesting officer tailored battle dress blouse with open collar, red gorget collar patches, small type rank pip above bronzed generals shoulder rank insignia. To each arm is tartan formation sign and one arm has a post war made padded Parachute qualification jump wing. To the breast are medal ribbons for the CBE, DSO with rosette, MC, GSM, 1939-45 star, Africa star with 8th army emblem, Italy star, France & Germany star, Defence medal and 1939-45 War medal with MID oakleaf. Interior of the battle dress with William Anderson & Son Edinburgh tailors label with typed name “Magnus v, Major General 6/44”. Battle dress remains in very good overall condition.
WW2 British Army Major Generals Battle Dress Blouse, fine example of an officer tailored open collar battle dress blouse with red gorget collar patches, embroidered rank insignia to the shoulders and medal ribbons above the breast pocket to include the DSO and bar. Interior with the original 1942 dated size label. No indication as to who this battle dress belonged too.
British Empire Medal (B.E.M) Group of Three, Forewoman of the Royal Aircraft Establishment Farnborough, medals to Miss May Yeomans consisting of British Empire Medal Civil, GVI 1st Issue “MISS MAY YEOMANS”, mounted on bow ribbon, 1937 Coronation Medal (unofficial impressed naming MAY YEOMANS) and an unnamed Second World War Defence medal. B.E.M. London Gazette 12 June 1947, Miss May Yeomans, Forewoman Royal Aircraft Establishment, Farnborough
An Interesting Group of Seven Medals to a Qualified Royal Navy Diver Who Having Served Through the Second World War Was Then Involved in Minesweeping Duties Post War, consists of 1939-45 star, Atlantic star with clasp France & Germany, Africa star with clasp North Africa 1942-43, Italy star, Burma star, War medal 1939-45 (all unnamed as issued) and a Naval General Service medal GVI with clasp Minesweeping 1945-51 “R/JX275443 W. MORLING A.B. R.N.” Wilfred Morling was born in October 1922 and during his time in the Royal Navy he qualified as a Diver and was employed on operational duties in the clearance of mines, bombs and underwater obstructions in ports of the UK and N.W. Europe (confirmed by a copy of Certificate of Proficiency with this lot). An active member of the Burma Star Association his death from a car accident in June 1991 is confirmed in the Association newsletter. It also states him as being one of the 35 the recipients of the Kings Medal for outstanding bravery in saving life (South Africa) but additional research does not show his name in the list of recipients of this medal. The article also indicates that he was present on HMS Repulse when she was lost due to enemy action in December 1941. Would warrant further research.
Cased Imperial German Iron Cross 2nd Class, fine example of the 1914 Iron Cross 2nd class with the ring stamped “K.A.G”. Medal is housed in a polished wooden case with the interior being a Bordeaux red felt with scooped out section to hold the award, section in the case for the medal ribbon. Wooden case with brass press stud release fitting. Good example.
British Officers WW2 & Jewish Revolt Medal Group of Six Royal Army Service Corps, consisting 1939-45 star, Italy star, France & Germany star, Defence medal, War medal and General Service medal 1918-62 with clasp Palestine 1945-48 “LT. H. SHEPHERD R.A.S.C.” Medals mounted for wear. Harry Shepherd received an immediate emergency commission from the ranks as 2/Lt (359913) effective 13 Feb 1946 (LG 16/4/46) in the Expeditionary Forces Institute section of the RASC, this was relinquished 11 Mar 1949. In the LG 20/2/51 he is noted as emergency commission as Lieutenant effective 24/2/51 and this is noted as relinquished with effect from 3 May 1951 in the LG 28/3/52. The roll confirms the issue of his medal on 14th December 1950.
Imperial German Colonial Veterans Breast Badge, fine white metal example with lion standing over the colonial slouch hat and crossed swords with “Fur Verdienste um die Kolonien” around. Reverse with “In memoriam” and also GES GESCH. Complete with pin and catch fixing to the reverse. Accompanied by a Braunschweig Veterans association ribboned badge and a Franco Prussian war 1870-71 brass commemorative medal. (3 items) Ex Jerry Withers collection.
An Unusual WW2 Long Service Medal Group of Five to a Member of the Royal Army Pay Corps Who Retired as a Major in 1972, consisting of France & Germany star, Defence medal, War medal 1939-45, Army Long Service medal ERII with 2nd award bar “7885996 W.O. CL.2 T.A. GULLIFORD R.A.P.C. “ (official correction to digits ‘5996’) and a Meritorious Service medal ERII “7885996 W.O. CL.1 T.A. GULLIFORD R.A.P.C.” (First 3 medals unnamed as issued). Medals display mounted on a red board with matching miniature medals and a pair of R.A.P.C. collar badges. Thomas Alfred Gulliford was commissioned as Lieutenant (Assistant Paymaster) in the London Gazette (LG) 16th August 1963 being promoted to Captain (Assistant Paymaster) in LG of 3rd April 1964. LG of 3rd April 1970 records his promotion to Major (Assistant Paymaster) with his retirement appearing in the LG of 10th April 1972. The bar to his Long Service was announced in the LG of 24th January 1972. Sold with a folder of copied research and a colour photo taken in later life.
* Canadian Korean War Medal Pair, consisting of Queens Korea medal, Canadian issue and a United Nations Korea medal, both medals named to “SB-12674 S.B.McDonald”. UN medal possibly later issue. Service number prefix indicates Central Ontario enlistment. This item has been imported from outside the EU so is subject to a 5% import duty on the hammer price.
* Canadian Korean War Medal Pair, consisting of Queens Korea medal, Canadian issue and United Nations Korea medal both named to “SD-9690 E R MERCIER”. D-prefix indicates enlistment in Militia district 4, Western Quebec. This item has been imported from outside the EU so is subject to a 5% import duty on the hammer price
* A Group of Six Medals to a Canadian who Served in Northwest Europe During the Second World War and Saw Later Service in the Korean Peninsula, group consists 1939-45 star, France & Germany star, War medal 1939-45 (Canadian silver issue), Canadian Volunteer Service medal (all 4 unnamed as issued), United Nations Korea medal “SF 52772 D R CAMERON”, Canadian Forces Decoration ERII, “SPR D R CAMERON”, in case of issue. F prefix indicates Militia District 6, Nova Scotia. This item has been imported from outside the EU so is subject to a 5% import duty on the hammer price.
* Canadian Korean War Medal Pair, Consists of Queens Korea medal, Canadian issue “SA-50844 M.C. PERCY”, in card box of issue, and a United Nations Korea medal, UNNAMED as issued. Melvin Clarence Percy enlisted for Second World war service on 12th March 1945 being discharged on 19th July 1945 (entitled to War Medal 1939-45). He re-enlisted in May 1951 and arrived in Korea in March 1952 with the PPCLI. Returning to Canada in November 1953 he was released from military service in August 1955. His certificate of service indicates he was wounded on 1 occasion. This item has been imported from outside the EU so is subject to a 5% import duty on the hammer price.
* A Group of Six Medals to a Canadian Serviceman Who Saw Service in Both the Second World War and in the Korean War, group consists of Defence and War medals (Canadian silver issues), Canadian Volunteer Service medal (first 3 unnamed as issued), Queens Korea medal “SM 800412 M.J. MALESKI”, United Nations Korea medal “SM 800412 M.J.MALESKI” and a Canadian Forces Decoration ERII “PTE M J MALESKI”. M Prefix indicates Militia District 13, Alberta and Northwest Territories. This item has been imported from outside the EU so is subject to a 5% import duty on the hammer price.
* Canadian Korean War Medal Pair, consisting of Queens Korea medal (British issue) “SK 9997 SA VATNSDAL” (First 2 digits of service number have been over stamped), United Nations Korea medal “SK 9997 S A VATNSDAL”. Sherdy Alan Vatnsdal enlisted into the Canadian Forces in September 1951 he served in the PPCLI and was awarded his Canadian Parachutists badge in May 1952. In October 1952 he qualified as an Infantry Sniper Grp 1, in May 1953 he was in Korea and returned to Canada in December 1953. He went overseas again in June 1954, this time to Germany and during this time he qualified as an Infantry Mortarman returning to Canada in April 1955 being discharged in June 1955. In October 1955 he re-joined and following a stint at the Royal Canadian School of Signals he served in 1 Airborne Squadron as a Signal man until his discharge in November 1958. His service record indicates that his Korea medal was returned and reissued on 2 occasions (1955 and 1956) but there are no details on the reason for this. This item has been imported from outside the EU so is subject to a 5% import duty on the hammer price.
WW1 Italian Al Valore Casualty Medal Group, consisting of bronze Al Valore Militare medal engraved to the reverse “BONETE (CARSO) GANDENZI GIULIO 16 SETT: 1916”, Unification of Italy medal, Italian Great War Victory medal and Italian medal of national gratitude to mothers of fallen. All medals complete with ribbons. Al Valore Militare medal with crowned Z below wreath.
WW2 German 1939 Iron Cross 2nd Class Worn as a Knights Cross, interesting un-marked standard 2nd class Iron Cross which has had the loop squashed into an oval loop to resemble that of a Knights Cross and was probably worn by the recipient as such. Accompanied by a piece of standard Iron Cross medal ribbon. Magnetic core to the award. Remains in very good condition.
An Interesting Group of Medals & Uniform, Including a British Distinguished Flying Cross (D.F.C), Attributed to Lieutenant Garland A York Serving in 34 Photo Reconnaissance Squadron, United States Airforce, group consists US Air medal with 6 oakleaf clusters, US Purple Heart medal, in case of issue, US Distinguished Flying Cross, US European, African, Middle Eastern Campaign medal with 3 bronze stars, US Victory medal and a British Distinguished Flying Cross, reverse dated 1945, in case of issue. All medals unnamed as issued. Lot is accompanied by assorted cloth badges, metal pilots wings by AE Co. Utica NY and a London made Ike jacket with insignia (maker Huntsman, Saville Row), British DFC medal ribbon is attached to the tunic. Also accompanied by aircraft panel instrument and trench art pieces. Often considered one of the unsung heroes of the war the job of the Photo Reconnaissance Squadron was to be the eyes of the army and to gather intelligence in preparation for later operations. 34 Photo Reconnaisance Squadron (34 PRS) was 1 of 6 squadrons forming the Ninth Air Force’s 10th Photo Reconnaissance Group (10 PRG). The groups aircraft of choice was the Lockheed F-5 which was a stripped down version of the famous P-38 and it was equipped with cameras instead of guns. During the Spring of 1944 the Squadron was tasked with an important mission to photograph the beaches of Normandy prior to the invasion. In order to minimise their chances of discovery the missions were flown alone and without escorts. Flying just above the waves to avoid detection the pilots photographed the beaches of Normandy at an altitude of between 15 and 50 feet and with an average speed of 350 knots. These missions were known as ‘dicing’ missions as, like the rolling of dice on a gambling table, you never knew quite how it would turn out. In total 11 of these dicing missions were flown by 10 PRG between 6th May and 20th May 1944 which allowed a scale model of Omaha beach to be produced in preparation for the invasion. Lieutenant York, a member of B-Flight and the youngest pilot in 34 PRS, flew one of these dicing missions on 20th May and when his pictures had been developed it was found that he had photographed the exact section of the Normandy beaches on which the American forces would land, he had photographed all of Omaha and most of Utah beaches. York’s mission was to be that last of the dicing missions and after that all missions were flown at heights of between 15,000 and 30,000 feet. 10 PRG was awarded a Distinguished Unit Citation for its performance in the dicing sorties with York being awarded the US Distinguished Flying Cross for his part in the missions. Garland York was noted as being a ‘hot’ pilot who had bent a couple of aeroplanes in his time with the squadron, in later life though he said he never felt like a hero because , as a Photo Recon pilot, he was never able to confront the Luftwaffe in the arena of aerial combat that made aces out of so many American fighter pilots. We have been unable to find a confirmation for the British Distinguished Flying Cross, the vendor acquired the group direct from the family of Lieutenant York.
An Interesting Crimean War Medal Group of Three to a Naval Officer Who Was Wounded During the Attack on Odessa in 1854, consists of Crimea medal, engraved naming “LIEUT ROBT STERNE HMS SAMPSON”, Baltic medal, unnamed as issued and Turkish Crimea medal, Sardinian issue, unnamed as issued. Robert Sterne was born 19th October 1833 and served as Mate on HMS Sampson from 20th October 1852 to 10th Jan 1855 and was present during the great storm of 14th November 1854 when she was driven into by Ganges and Pyrenees and was dismasted in the mouth of the Katcha river. Sampson was later taken to Constantinople for repair. Sterne was gazetted as having been slightly wounded at the attack on Odessa on 22nd April 1854 when HMS Sampson suffered 6 crew members wounded. Promoted to Lieutenant 13th November 1854 and Commander 3rd June 1865. In June 1868 he was given thanks by the Irish Government for service rendered in command of Seamew. He retired on 1st October 1893 as a Captain and died 31st May 1927. Crimea medal confirmed as an Acting Mate on the roll of HMS Sampson, Baltic medal confirmed as Lieutenant on HMS Euryalus.
WW2 American Bronze Star & Purple Heart Medal Group 12th Infantry Regiment, bronze star engraved to the reverse “STEPHEN L PUCHART”, Purple Heart un-named as issued. Accompanied by enamelled regimental DI’s for 12th Infantry regiment, infantryman breast badge, identity discs and religious chain. Stephen L Puchart was born in New York City 22nd December 1906, he enlisted in the US army 24th March 1941 and was discharged on 14th October 1945. He died on 12th October 1974 in Delaware. The 12th Infantry regiment were part of the 4th Infantry division, they landed at Utah beach on D-Day.
WW2 German Eastern Front Medal, good example of the Ost Front (Eastern Front) medal with un-marked ring and original ribbon; 2x un-marked black grade wound badges (one missing its pin); early SS jawless skull with two prong blade fittings to the reverse and DLRG breast badge with pin fitting to the reverse. (5 items) Ex Jerry Withers collection
WW2 Japanese Medal & Insignia Grouping, consisting of WW1 service medal, Russo Japanese war medal, Manchuria Incident medal, single cloth rank insignia (two stars), metal army proficiency badge, veterans badge in card box of issue and Japanese Military Reservists badge gold grade in wooden box of issue.
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