The rare M.G.S. medal for ‘Chrystler’s Farm’ awarded to Lieutenant Hector Munro, 49th Foot, who carried the colours and was slightly wounded in this action, for which only 7 officers of the regiment lived to claim the clasp; he was later a Captain in the Royal Canadian Rifles and settled in Canada Military General Service 1793-1814, 1 clasp, Chrystler’s Farm (Hector Munro, Lieut. 49th Foot) clasp face slightly bent at left side, small edge bruise, otherwise good very fine £14,000-£18,000 --- Only seven M.G.S. medals with ‘Chrystler’s Farm’ clasp issued to officers of the 49th Foot, out of a total of only 17 officers to receive this clasp from British or Canadian regiments. Hector Munro was born on 28 November 1796, and entered the army as an Ensign in the 89th Foot on 5 September 1811, aged 15 years 6 months. He served in North America from July 1812 until July 1816, initially with the 89th but was promoted to Lieutenant in the 49th Foot on 19 May 1813. He exchanged into the 103rd Foot in February 1817 and was placed on half-pay the following month. He was appointed Lieutenant in the Royal Newfoundland Veterans on 25 December 1838, transferred as Lieutenant to the Royal Canadian Rifles on 16 July 1841, and was promoted to Captain in that regiment on 14 December 1845. He exchanged to the 2nd Foot on 4 August 1848, and retired by the sale of his commission. His services are given in Hart’s Army List thus: ‘Lieut. Munro served in the American war with the 49th Regt. and was present in the actions at Prescot, Chrystler’s Farm, and Plattsburg, besides various skirmishes.’ However, as can be seen from the following biographies, Munro carried the 49th colours and was wounded at Chrystler’s Farm. The latter was almost certainly a light wound as it is not mentioned in either the casualty lists or in his record of service; not uncommon for light and in particular non-pensionable wounds. Presumably Munro carried the colours after young Ensign Richmond had been wounded. ‘Captain Hector Munro, fourth son of Captain John of Kirkton, whose descendants now represent this family in the male line, was born on the 28th of November, 1796, and entered the army in 1811, in his sixteenth year, as an Ensign in the 89th Regiment. Two years later he was promoted Lieutenant in the 49th Regiment and carried the colours at Chrystler's Farm for which he received a medal and was wounded. He was also present at Plattsburg and Lundy's Lane. He was placed on half-pay on the 25th of March, 1817, from the 103rd Regiment, but on the 25th of December, 1838, was again placed on full pay as Lieutenant in the Royal Newfoundland Veterans, and when the Royal Canadian Rifles were formed he obtained a company in 1846. He soon after exchanged into the 2nd Regiment of Foot, or Queen's, and retired by sale of his commission in 1848. In 1859 he was appointed Surveyor of Customs at Galt, Ontario, an office which he held for the remainder of his life. He was for several years President of the Galt and Hamilton Highland Societies, and it was largely owing to his patriotic exertions that the fine and striking monument, on which his name appears as hon. secretary, was erected at Queenston to the memory of Sir Isaac Brock.’ (History of the Munros refers). ‘HECTOR MUNRO, deceased, father of L. H. R. Munro, was born at Dornoch, Scotland, in 1796. He came to Canada in 1812 with the 49th Regiment, being a brother officer of Sir Allan McNab. He participated in the battles of Chrystler’s Farm, Queenston Heights, and Lundy’s Lane, and carried the colours at Chrystler’s Farm. After the war he retired on half-pay; and, when again placed on full pay, was stationed at St. John’s, Newfoundland, from which he removed to Toronto, having been transferred to the Royal Canadian Rifles. He subsequently filled the position of Collector of Customs at Galt, until 1854, when he died, leaving eight children. His son, George T. Munro, who had been retired as a captain on half pay on the disbanding of the Royal Canadian Rifle Regiment with his wife and child and youngest sister were lost at sea on one of the Allan vessels the Hazeldean, in 1870.’ (History of Toronto and County of York, Ontario, Volume 2, refers) Hector Munro died at Galt, Ontario, on 12 February 1868. Sold with comprehensive research on CD.
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Pair: Private R. Maclennan, Highland Light Infantry Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 2 clasps, Modder River, Wittebergen (4080 Pte. R. Maclennan, 1: High: Lt. Inft.); King’s South Africa 1901-02, 2 clasps, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 (4080 Pte. R. McLennan. Highland L.I.) edge bruising and contact marks, otherwise nearly very fine (2) £200-£240 --- The 1st Battalion, Highland Light Infantry was not present at Belmont.
A Great War ‘Kut-al-Amara’ D.C.M. awarded to Sergeant T. W. Armitt, 1st Battalion, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry, who died in captivity after the fall of Kut Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (8397 Sjt: T. W. Armitt. 1/O. & B.L.I.) nearly extremely fine £700-£900 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 12 December 1917. No citations were published for the 65 awards of the D.C.M. announced in this gazette. It is believed that they were all rewards for services prior to the fall of Kut-al-Amara or whilst in captivity. M.I.D. London Gazette 13 July 1916: ‘Officers, N.C.O.’s, and men under Major-General C. V. F. Townshend, C.B., D.S.O., brought to notice for Gallant and Distinguished Service in the Field from 5th October 1915 to 17th January 1916.’ Thomas William Armitt served with the 1st Battalion, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry, and entered the Asiatic theatre of war on 5 December 1914. The battalion history records that he was wounded at the capture of One Tower Hill on 31 May 1915 (p 61) and that he led “R” Company (67 men) on the march to captivity (p 225). He was captured at Kut and died in captivity at Afiun Qarahisar on 4 November 1916. He is commemorated by name in the Baghdad (North Gate) War Cemetery, Iraq. Banbury Guardian, 20 January 1916: ‘Sgt. T. W. Armitt of the 1st Oxf. & Bucks. L.I., son of Mr W. Armitt, 50 Calthorpe St., has been wounded in the Persian Gulg and his parents received notification a few days ago. This is the second time Sgt. Armitt has been wounded. Mr & Mrs Armitt have three other sons serving with the colours.’ Banbury Guardian, 29 June 1916: ‘Mrs Armitt, 50 Calthorpe St., has been advised that her youngest son L/Cpl. Edward Armitt was killed in action on the 16th inst. He was serving with the South Wales Borderers and was only 18 years of age. Sgt. T. W. Armitt, the eldest son, is presumed to be a prisoner of war with the Turks having been with General Townshend’s force at Kut-al-Amara, and another son Pte. Charles Armitt was wounded by a shell a year ago and is still in hospital. A fourth son is serving with the local territorial battalion at the front.’ Banbury Guardian, 15 February 1917: ‘Mr William Armitt of Calthorpe St has this week been notified of the death of his eldest son Sgt. T. W. Armitt of the Oxford & Bucks L.I. which occurred from intestinal inflammation at Afiun Karahisar on November the 4th. Sgt. Armitt was with General Townshend’s force throughout the defence of Kut and died a prisoner in the hands of the Turks. He was mentioned in despatches for bravery and was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal.’
Pair: Private William Fox, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry, who later served with the 8th Battalion, Royal Berkshire Regiment and was killed in action 26 October 1918 British War and Victory Medals (24376 Pte. W. Fox. Oxf. & Bucks. L.I.); Memorial Plaque (William Fox) and R. Berks cap badge, good very fine (4) £60-£80 --- William Fox was born in Brize Norton, Oxfordshire and enlisted at Oxford into the Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry. He later served with the 8th Battalion, Royal Berkshire Regiment and was killed in action on 26 October 1918. He is commemorated by name on the Vis-en-Artois Memorial.
Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 1 clasp, Cape Colony (R. Lowe, Scottish Hosp:) small official correction, otherwise nearly extremely fine and scarce £400-£500 --- Provenance: John Tamplin Collection, Dix Noonan Webb, September 2003. The Scottish National Red Cross Hospital was organised in the first instance by the St Andrew’s Association and was funded by voluntary donations. The organisation of the hospital commenced in January 1900, the personnel eventually consisting of an officer in charge, 18 civil medical officers, 1 Quartermaster, 1 Warrant Officer, 2 secretaries, 35 nursing sisters of the Army Nursing Service Reserve, 45 first-class orderlies, all of whom were medical students, and 57 second-class orderlies, making a total of 160. The first section arrived at Cape Town on 13 May 1900, and the hospital was opened for patients on 4 June, at Kroonstadt. Previous to that time however, the hospital staff had been employed on duty in the military hospitals at Bloemfontein and Kroonstadt. It remained during the whole period at Kroonstadt, and its equipment was handed over to the Government, when it ceased to exist as a private hospital, on 14 October 1900.
Crimea 1854-56, 1 clasp, Sebastopol (Private James Jones, 47th. R...) Hunt & Roskell engraved naming, traces of brooch mounting to reverse, suspension claw re-affixed with replacement suspension bar and alterations to clasp carriage, heavy edge bruising partially obscuring naming, polished and worn throughout, therefore about fair £60-£80 --- James Jones was born in Leicester in 1833 and attested for the 47th Regiment of Foot on 9 September 1854. He served with the Regiment in the Crimea for five months, was promoted Corporal on 5 August 1863, and Sergeant on 16 November 1864. He was discharged on 22 February 1876, after 21 years and 19 days’ service. Sold with copied discharge papers and other research.
Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, no clasp (Mr. R. X. Atteridge.) very fine £80-£120 --- Richard Xavier Atteridge was born in 1869 at Newcastle upon Tyne, Northumberland and was a civilian employed in Army Telegraphs during the Boer War. He is described on the roll as a refugee and is entitled to the clasp for Transvaal. With copied roll extract.
Family group: The Queen’s South Africa Medal awarded to Private C. Jones, Royal Berkshire Regiment, who was mortally wounded at Colesberg on 1 January 1900 Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 1 clasp, Cape Colony (4164 Pte. C. Jones, 2nd Rl: Berks: Regt.) Three: Private F. G. Jones, Royal Berkshire Regiment, later Royal Army Ordnance Corps 1914-15 Star (16578 Pte. F. G. Jones. R. Berks: R.); British War and Victory Medals (16578 Pte. F. G. Jones. R. Berks. R.) good very fine (4) £260-£300 --- Private C. Jones was mortally wounded at Colesberg on 1 January 1900, and died two days later. He was the father of Frederick G. Jones, who served with the Royal Berkshire Regiment in France from 23 February 1915, and later transferred to the Royal Army Ordnance Corps.
Indian Mutiny 1857-59, no clasp (W. Cuthbert, 52nd L.I.) very fine £200-£260 --- William Cuthbert was accidentally shot and killed on 16 July 1857. Mr R. G. Wilberforce refers to this incident in his book An Unrecorded Chapter of the Indian Mutiny, at p 66, ‘That evening one of our poor fellows shot himself, etc.’ In reviewing this book in 1895, the Regimental Chronicle states: ‘The man here referred to accidentally lost his life thus: On the 16th July, 1857 (not the 15th as given in the book), after returning from an engagement on an island in the Ravee, an officer gave his revolver to Private William Cuthbert (D, or Captain Crosse’s company), to take home. During the Day, Cuthbert, who was sitting down in the corner of the tent at the time, handed the revolver to Bat. [Bartholomew] Ryan to look at; while he (Ryan) was examining it, the weapon went off accidentally and shot Cuthbert dead. Those two men were regimental tailors, and strong comrades for years. Indeed, poor Ryan never did much good in the corps after the deplorable occurrence, for he seemed ever after to take the affair very much to heart.’
India General Service 1908-35, 1 clasp, Mohmand 1933 (2873799 Pte. R. Hunter. Gordons.) mounted as worn, scratched overall, otherwise nearly very fine and scarce --- 46 clasps issued to the Gordons for Mohmand 1933. Sold with copied medal roll which shows Hunter as attached H.Q. Peshawar Brigade.
The 1914-15 Star awarded to Lieutenant H. A. Hodges, Monmouthshire Regiment, an all-round sportsman who played First Class Cricket for Nottinghamshire and was capped twice by England for Rugby Union playing against Wales and Ireland in the 1906 Home Nations Championship; he was twice mentioned in despatches and was killed in action in March 1918 1914-15 Star (Lieut. H. A. Hodges. Monmouth. R.) extremely fine £300-£400 --- Harold Augustus Hodges was born at The Priory, Mansfield Woodhouse, Nottinghamshire, on 22 January 1886, the son of William A. Hodges, J.P. and Augusta Hodges of 'Oaklands', Bromley Park, Kent. He was educated at Roclareston School and from January 1899, Sedbergh School. He entered Trinity College, Oxford, in 1905, and following university he studied at the Sorbonne, Paris, for a short period before joining Tonbridge school as a master in September 1909. He played Rugby Union for England and Oxford University (Blue); Lacrosse for Oxford University (Blue), and also played for Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club (1911). He served in France with the 3rd Battalion, Monmouthshire Regiment, attached 11th Battalion, South Lancashire Regiment. He was twice mentioned in Despatches (25 May and 24 December, 1917) and was promoted to Captain. He was reported missing believed killed on 24 March 1918, but his death was not confirmed until the following October, when it was reported that 'On the night of 22 March 1918, he entered a small factory on a road between Ham and Eppeville, hoping to make contact with a British battalion. He instead encountered enemy troops and was shot dead.’ He is buried in Roye New British Cemetery.
The British War Medal awarded to Private R. Tansey, 42nd Canadian Infantry, who was killed in action in October 1916 British War Medal 1914-20 (418304 Pte. R. Tansey. 42-Can. Inf.) surname re-impressed; together with Canadian Memorial Cross (418304 Pte R. Tansey) brooch fitting to reverse, good very fine (2) £60-£80 --- Reginald Tansey was killed in action on 7 October 1916.
Australia Service Medal (NX11350 R. J. Boman) good very fine £40-£50 --- Reginald John Boman was born in Sydney on 4 March 1916 and attested for the Australian Imperial Forces at Paddington, New South Wales. He served with the 2/33rd Australian Infantry Battalion, and was killed in action in Papua New Guinea fighting the Japanese. He is buried in Port Moresby (Bomana) War Cemetery, Papua New Guinea.
Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., E.VII.R. (2) (268308 Alfred Mc.Dowell. C.E.R.A. 2 Cl, H.M.S. Swiftsure.; 156904 R. L. G. Staddon, C.E.R.A. 2 Cl., H.M.S. Niobe.) generally very fine and better (2) £120-£160 --- Alfred McDowell was born in Canning Town, London on 14 July 1870. He enlisted into the Royal Navy in October 1894 and first served with H.M.S. Victory. He transferred to H.M.S. Malabar in February 1896 followed by H.M.S. Vernon and Monarch. He was part of the crew on the later during its involvement in the Second Boer War, for which McDowell was awarded a Queen’s South Africa Medal. Following his return, McDowell went onto serve with H.M.S. Duke of Wellington, Terrible and Dominion. In October 1908 he was posted to H.M.S. Swiftsure and it was whilst serving with this ship that he was awarded a Long Service and Good Conduct Medal, having reached the rate of Chief Engine Room Artificer Second Class. On the outbreak of the Great War, McDowell was serving with H.M.S. Southampton and was posted to the light cruiser H.M.S. Castor in January 1915. McDowell was with this ship during the Battle of Jutland, where Castor served as ‘Flotilla Cruiser’ with 11th Destroyer Flotilla, and he was personally commended for his good serve during the battle (London Gazette 15 September 1915). McDowell continued to serve with Castor until the end of the war and was still part of the crew during her involvement in the Russian Intervention of 1918-19. He was demobilised in February 1919. Roger Llewelyn Glanville Staddon was born in Turnchapel, Plymouth, Devon on 7 February 1868. He enlisted into the Royal Navy in March 1892 and was first posted to H.M.S. Vivid II. He then went onto serve with numerous other ships and shore establishments including H.M.S. Collingwood, Edgar, Magdala, Triumph and Challenger. In October 1907 Staddon joined H.M.S. Niobe and it was whilst serving with this ship that he was awarded a Long Service and Good Conduct Medal, having attained the rate of Chief Engine Room Artificer Second Class. After further service with H.M.S. Europa, Gibraltar and Warrior, he was invalided out of the service in June 1909, being considered no longer fit for duty. During the Great War Staddon served with the Mercantile Marine for which he was awarded the British War and Mercantile Marine War Medals.
An Air Efficiency Award to Flight Lieutenant G. A. Waller, D.F.C., who served as a Navigator on Blenheim nightfighter patrols with 29 Squadron during the Battle of Britain and was decorated in 1944 in respect of his services as a Radar Operator, in particular his part in the destruction of three enemy aircraft, in Mosquito nightfighters of 604 Squadron Air Efficiency Award, G.VI.R., 1st issue (Flt Lt G A Waller RAFVR) officially impressed naming, with named lid of original card box of issue, nearly extremely fine £600-£800 --- D.F.C. London Gazette 20 October 1944: ‘This officer is a first class navigator and has shown great keenness during his tour of operations against the enemy. He has assisted in the destruction of three enemy aircraft.’ George Alfred Waller, born in 1918, joined 601 Squadron, Auxiliary Air Force before the war as an Aircrafthand. Called up on 24 August 1939, he remustered as an Airman Air Gunner and with training completed, served with 23 Squadron, first being mentioned in the Operations Record Book dated 25 May 1940. He flew a number of sorties in Blenheims of 23 Squadron from Martlesham and Debden, before joining the Blenheim nightfighter unit, No. 29 Squadron, at Digby in June as a Sergeant Navigator, thus becoming a contemporary of the abundantly decorated J. R. D. ‘Bob’ Braham and his radar operator Bill ‘Sticks’ Gregory both of whom were flying with the squadron at the time. Waller was in Blenheim L 1371 on 28 September when it was hit in the starboard wing by British anti-aircraft fire during an evening patrol. He and Pilot Officer J. Buchanan were unhurt and returned safely to Digby. After the advent of the Beaufighter and greatly-improved AI equipment, Waller retrained as a radar operator and was flying as such by November 1940. He was commissioned Pilot Officer in June 1943 and awarded the D.F.C. in 1944 as a Flying Officer with 604 Squadron (flying Mosquitos from February 1944) having by then assisted in the destruction of three enemy aircraft. He was released from the Royal Air Force in 1950, as a Flight Lieutenant, and he died in 1983. Sold with a file of research. Note: a D.F.C., reverse engraved 1944; 1939-45 Star with Battle of Britain Bar; Air Crew Europe Star with France and Germany Bar; Defence Medal and War Medal group of five attributed to Flight Lieutenant G. A. Waller (with no Air Efficiency Award) was sold by Glendining on 26 March 1998. The medals sold on that occasion were accompanied by a slip from Buckingham Palace, copy birth certificate, various newspaper cuttings and an Officer’s Medical Record Card.
A fine Royal Humane Society Medal in silver awarded to Lieutenant J. P. Palmes, Royal Navy, who, having been wrecked together with ten fellow Royal Navy officers in the pinnace H.M.S. Seringapatam, off English Bay, Antigua, on 26 August 1838, volunteered to accompany W. R. Smith, R.N. in a two mile swim through shark infested waters to shore, thereby effecting the launch of rescue boats and the ultimate rescue of the remaining members of the stricken party, the latter having endured some five in hours in the water clinging to the wreckage of their capsized vessel Royal Humane Society, large silver medal (successful), (J. P. Palmes, Armo. R.N. 1838) unmounted, some edge bruising, very fine £400-£500 --- The following citation, which mistakenly refers to Palmes as Palmer, appears in Acts of Gallantry by Lambton Young: ‘On the 26th August 1838, as eleven officers started for a cruise in the pinnace of H.M.S. “Seringapatam”, from English harbour, Antigua, to Falmouth Bay, about two miles to leeward, the wind was fair, the afternoon very fine, and all seemed to promise them a pleasant excursion. Having made a short stay at Falmouth harbour, they hauled their wind, and made three or four tacks, coming back to the ship. The boat made little or nothing to windward, the wind being light, and standing in on the starboard tack, she was taken by a sudden squall. The helm was put “a lee,” but the boat not coming to the wind, so as to lift the sails, was capsized under every stitch. She, however, went over so gradually, that every one had time to creep to windward and seat himself on the gunwale. All sail being on the boat, it protected them, in some measure from the breaking of the sea. No one, unfortunately, being in possession of a knife, righting the boat was quite an impossibility. Their destruction at this moment would almost appear inevitable, being upwards of two miles from land, and the boat’s gunwale only six inches awash; accordingly, Mr Smith, a very bold swimmer, thought he might, in company with another, gain the shore, the only apparent chance of saving their lives. Being all of them but very indifferent swimmers, they remained by the boat, except Mr Palmer, who, although confident in himself of sinking in the attempt, determined, in so good a cause, to try his luck. These two noble adventurers then quitted the wreck, and before the poor fellows had got half way to terra firma, were visited by the monsters of the deep, whilst struggling for the lives not only of themselves, but nine fellow-creatures. Two sharks actually grazed Smith’s legs, to whom must be attributed the salvation of the whole. Still fearless, he gloriously persisted in the arduous task he so generously undertook; and concealing the fact of his narrow escape, cheered up the heart of his companion; nor did Smith ever once lose command of himself on this awful occasion. Being obliged several times to dive, as it were, to feel his way, still nearly a mile from land, and the sea-lawyer distinctly visible hovering for his prey, let the reader picture to himself any situation more critical, or a deed more gallant than the presence of mind exhibited by Smith. Palmer was so exhausted that Smith had to support him once or twice; but fearing that this stopping would attract the sharks, he saw the necessity of spurring him up for a last push. At last, after a tedious and frightful swim, they both, to their utmost astonishment and delight, landed on the beach. Smith not being very much fatigued, and yet alive to the fate of his fellow-sufferers, ran to spread the news. “Bad news flies on the wings of the wind,” and the report spread like wildfire; men, women, and children all ran frantic at the news of so melancholy an occurrence. They had been upwards of two hours reaching the shore, and the accident having taken place at 4.30pm, drew daylight nearly to a close. The boats were immediately manned, and despatched forthwith in search of the wreck, while Smith and Palmer (who from exhaustion had been unable to move from the beach for some time) procure other boats to aid in the rescue of their comrades. They pulled in search of the boat; the dark clouds of night were just shutting in, and although hope lived in the breast of every soul, fears still existed as to their safety; in short, the people on shore seemed to think their recovery impossible, for sharks, on once tasting blood, never relinquish their hold till no living soul survives to tell the tale. The boats all taking different directions, each shaped the course thought most certain of success. They pulled incessantly in a zigzag way, so as to cross their wake. Hour after hour passed on; the coal-black clouds and white-topped sea arose, to add to the gloominess of the scene; the rain fell in torrents, and the lightning burst forth in sharp and vivid flashes, as if to mask their efforts and renew their fears. Despondency here took root in every heart, and the hope of ever again seeing their friends had nearly failed. At three in the morning the barge brought the pinnace and all hands on board. The gunner who commanded her certainly had taken the best course, by going to leeward instead of to windward, and tracking up, on his way down he was joined by Mr. Smith, and had not got far down after this, when they observed the wreck. It was then past nine o’clock, making it nearly five hours the poor fellows had held on to the boat. Driven to extremes, four had lashed themselves to oars (for only one of the nine could swim fifty yards), and luckily had not left the pinnace on their perilous adventure five minutes, when the barge came to their assistance, and all were saved. The pinnace was towed on shore, baled out, and the two boats returned, having picked up about five or six miles to leeward of where she capsized, and drawn some distance from the shore. Had it not been for Smith’s swimming on shore, everybody must have perished. “To save a poor fellow from a watery grave, is worthy a Briton, who conquers to save.”’ John P. Palmes, was born at Naburn, Yorkshire in 1816, the third son of George and Margaret Isabella Palmes and younger brother of Bryan Palmes, Captain in the 57th Light Infantry, who died at Barbados in 1839. He entered the Royal Navy as a Volunteer 1st Class on 2 December 1830. Having passed his examination on 10 November 1838, he served for some time at Portsmouth, as Mate, in the Queen 110, flag-ship of Sir Edward Codrington and was promoted Lieutenant while in the Royal George yacht, Captain Lord Adolphus Fitzclarence, 7 March 1842. His succeeding appointments were: March 1842 to the Thunderer 84, Capt. Dan Pring, employed in the Mediterranean and on particular service - December 1844 as Additional to the Hydra steam sloop, Capt. Horatio Beauman Young, on the coast of Africa - April 1845, to the Penelope steam-frigate, Commodore William Jones, on the same station - 1846 to the Belleisle 24, troop-ship, Capt. John Kingcome - and, 1847 to the Howe 120, Capt. Sir James Stirling, fitting at Portsmouth.
R.S.P.C.A. bronze medal for animal life saving (Mr T. W. Carter - 1938.) complete with ‘For Humanity’ brooch bar in its fitted case of issue, nearly extremely fine £140-£180 --- The Bedfordshire Times and Independent, 10 June 1938, carried the following article: ‘Bronze medals have been awarded by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to Messrs. R. Sturgess, G. Chadwick, R. Clarke, and T. W. Carter, and a merit certificate to Mr. L. Page, for their action in breaking into burning farm buildings at Streatley and rescuing cattle.’
The Central China Famine Relief Medal attributed to the Reverend Alex R. Saunders, China Inland Mission Central China Famine Relief Medal 1910-11, 35mm, bronze-gilt and enamel, uniface, on original embroidered riband, nearly extremely fine £300-£400 --- The Reverend Alex R. Saunders served with the China Inland Mission at Yangchow, China. His memoirs, ‘A God of Deliverances’, records his time in China, and includes a photograph of the recipient and his wife. Sold with a King James Bible presented by the recipient to his wife Isabel, the inside inscribed ‘To my darling Wife. A memento of a very happy birthday spent in Nellie’s home at Luton. From Alex. 2nd August 1928.’ For the recipient’s son’s medals, see Lot 362.
France, Republic, Order of the Academic Palms, Knight’s breast badge, 38mm x 27mm, silver and enamel; Medaille Militaire (7), silver-gilt and enamel, all with trophy of arms suspension, significant enamel damage throughout; French Foreign Legion Medal of National Defence, gilt, 1 clasp, Mission D’Assistance Exterieure (2); Medal of Honour for French Railway Workers, silvered, the reverse inscribed ‘Mle. M. Paris, 1943’; Medal of Honour for the French Railways (2), silvered, the reverse inscribed ‘M. Millot 1967’; gilt, the reverse inscribed ‘M. Millot 1977’; together with a number of miscellaneous mainly European medals, badges, and buttons, including an Austrian commemorative medal for the Great War; a Belgian Decoration for Industry and Agriculture; a British War Medal 1914-20 (94515 Pte. C. E .Thompson. Sea. Highrs.); an Allied Victory Medal 1914-19 (29614 Pte. J. Mutimer. Dorset. R.); and a European Union Veterans’ Medal, gilt and enamel, generally very fine and better (lot) £60-£80
The 1914-15 Star awarded to Private Reginald Vaughan, 2nd Battalion, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry, who died of wounds in France on 26 September 1915 1914-15 Star (11435 Pte. R. Vaughan. Oxf: & Bucks: L.I.); Memorial Plaque (Reginald Vaughan) extremely fine (2) £60-£80 --- Reginald Walter Orwood Vaughan served with the 2nd Battalion, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry, in France from 26 May 1915, and died of wounds on 26 September 1915, aged 24. He was a native of Bristol, the son of Walter William and Caroline Vaughan, of Waterloo Road, Smethwick, Staffordshire, and is buried in Bethune Town Cemetery.
The History of the 91st Argyllshire Highlanders, by Lieutenant R. P. Dunn-Pattison, published by William Blackwood & Sons, Edinburgh, 1910, demy quatro, 414pp, with maps, illustrations, and various appendices, cloth bound, spine slightly faded, otherwise good condition The History of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, 1st Battalion, 1909-1939, by Brigadier R. C .B. Anderson, D.S.O., M.C., privately published 1954, medium octavo, 192pp, with with maps, illustrations, various appendices, and index, cloth bound, good condition (2) £40-£50
A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.C. group of four awarded to Second Lieutenant H. A. I. B. Stokes, 3rd Battalion, attached 2nd Battalion, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry, late Royal Fusiliers, who died in November 1918 of the wounds he received whilst in the act of winning the M.C. Military Cross, G.V.R.; 1914-15 Star (STK-843 Pte. H. A. Stokes. R. Fus.); British War and Victory Medals (2. Lieut. H. A. I. B. Stokes.) extremely fine (4) £1,000-£1,400 --- M.C. London Gazette 15 February 1919; citation London Gazette 30 July 1919: ‘While forming up for the attack near Rumilly on October 1st, 1918, he was wounded but remained with his platoon and advanced with it to the attack. Under very heavy rifle and machine-gun fire from three sides he reorganised his men into groups, thereby avoiding many casualties and enabling the advance to proceed. Later, when further advance became impossible, he, though wounded a second time, stayed and encouraged his men until every other wounded man had been got away. He showed great courage and devotion to duty.’ Hugh Adrian Innys Blyth Stokes served as a Private with the 10th Battalion, Royal Fusiliers, in France from 31 July 1915, and was then commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant into the 3rd Battalion, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry, and later into the 2nd Battalion. He was wounded on 1 October 1918, and died of his wounds on 28 November 1918. He is buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery, Surrey. He was the son of Hugh Innys Stokes and Kate May Stokes of 46 Baker Street London. Sold with a rather faded portrait photograph.
‘I joined up as a youngster for a bit of fun, but it didn’t turn out like that. We were young men made old before our time. I felt then, that I had to go to the help of these lads. After all, they were my pals. Five men tried to get through and I was the sixth. I made a dive and got through. The worst part was that I didn’t know just where our chaps were. I had to find them, and in a run for about 150 yards I went within five yards of one of Jerry’s machine-guns. It was my lucky day.’ James Towers, V.C., reflects upon events at Mericourt on 6 October 1918 (The Lancashire Daily Post, 12 November 1929, refers). The outstanding Great War 1918 ‘Final Advance to Victory’ V.C. group of five awarded to Private James Towers, 2nd Battalion, The Cameronians (Scottish Rifles) who, with utter disregard for his own safety, volunteered to carry a vital message, under continuous heavy fire, to a stranded platoon at Mericourt in October 1918 whilst in the knowledge that five of his comrades had already been killed in turn making their attempts to carry out the same task. Setting out under heavy enfilading machine-gun fire amid scant cover, he moved between shell craters and crawled through barbed wire entanglements, before coming across the slumped body of the first volunteer runner - his close friend, Private Frank Dunlop, the Company Messenger. Undeterred, Towers continued, only to become pinned down beneath a guarded embankment which, opting for surprise, he navigated with a running leap - landing within five yards of a fully manned enemy machine-gun post whose fire he avoided in the mist by speed of movement and some grace of providence. Finally reaching the trapped platoon intact, he delivered his vital despatch and guided it back to safety after dusk, his display of supreme courage and determination a great inspiration to all ranks Victoria Cross, reverse of suspension bar named ‘30245 Pte. J. Towers, 2nd Bn. Sco. Rif.’, reverse of cross dated ‘6 Oct. 1918’, with its Hancocks & Co. case of issue; British War and Victory Medals (30245 Pte. J. Towers, Sco. Rif.); Coronation 1937, unnamed as issued; Coronation 1953, unnamed as issued, generally very fine (5) £140,000-£180,000 --- V.C. London Gazette 6 January 1919: ‘For most conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty at Mericourt on 6 October 1918, when, under heavy fire, five runners having failed to deliver an important message, Private Towers, well aware of the fate of the runners who had already attempted the task, volunteered for the duty. In spite of heavy fire opened on him as soon as he moved, he went straight through from cover to cover and eventually delivered the message. His valour, determination, and utter disregard of danger were an inspiring example to all.’ James Towers was born at 8 Wildman Street, Preston, Lancashire on 8 September 1897, the son of James and Betty Towers. At the time of his birth his father was employed as a cotton loomer but he later took up farming at Broughton, in which work he was assisted by young James after he had attended Emmanuel Boys School. Enlisting underage in the West Lancashire Artillery in July 1915, Towers was quickly discharged when his true age was established, but he re-enlisted in the 5th Dragoon Guards in August 1916. Subsequently transferred to the infantry, he joined the 2nd Battalion, The Cameronians (Scottish Rifles), and went to France in December 1916, where his unit formed part of 59th Infantry Brigade, 20th Division. Supreme courage at Mericourt - V.C. On 6 October 1918, during the Final Advance to Victory, Towers and his comrades in the 2nd Battalion found themselves holding a railway embankment at Mericourt, three miles south-west of Lens in the Avion Sector. Coming under considerable pressure from the enemy, orders were given to retire, an order which failed to reach a platoon in ‘B’ Company under the command of 2nd Lieutenant W. R. Jack, as it had become cut-off in an isolated position between the lines of advancing Germans. The only means of communication between ‘B’ Company Headquarters and 2nd Lieutenant Jack was by orderly and so a volunteer was called for, a runner to pass on news of the order to retire to the stranded platoon. The first volunteer was killed. Four more volunteers suffered a similar fate in quick succession: James Towers, who had witnessed all five men going down, now stepped forward. It is said he had a natural sporting ability, the result of leaping dykes and fences on his father’s farm. If so, it was an ability about to serve him well, for the moment he embarked on his seemingly suicidal mission, heavy enfilading machine-gun fire was upon him. Darting from shell-hole to shell-hole, and crawling through wire entanglements, he came across the slumped body of the first volunteer runner - one of his best friends, Private Frank Dunlop. Undeterred, and hugging the ground, Towers continued on his way until he reached an embankment. Opting for the element of surprise, he broke into a run and leapt over the top, only to land within a few yards of a German machine-gun nest: he landed on his toes and with a few quick bounds disappeared into the mist before the startled Germans had time to react. Unaware as to the exact location of the missing platoon - ‘The worst part was that I didn’t know just where our chaps were’ - the gallant Cameronian’s persistence eventually paid off, and upon locating them he dug-in with his comrades for the night. The following day, in the early dawn mist, and making use of his newly acquired knowledge of the whereabouts of enemy machine-gun posts, he led the ‘lost platoon’ safely back to B Company area, recovering the bodies of numerous fallen comrades en-route. He was awarded the Victoria Cross, ‘his valour, determination, and utter disregard of danger,’ had been an inspiring example to all who witnessed it. For their coolness and gallant conduct during the operation, 2nd Lieut. Jack received the M.C. and three M.M.s were awardeded to N.C.O.s and men of his platoon. Invested with his V.C. by H.M. King George V in the Quadrangle at Buckingham Palace on 8 May 1919, Towers returned to the Palace to attend the V.C. Garden Party in June of the following year. He was also one of 74 V.C. holders who formed a special Guard of Honour for the burial of the Unknown Warrior at Westminster Abbey on 11 November 1920. The latter years - farming and milk delivery - reunions and royal encounters Having been demobilised in January 1919, Towers returned to his father’s dairy farm at Durton Lane, Broughton. Later, when his father retired, he set up on his own, running a four acre poultry farm and a milk distribution business. As reported in The Lancashire Daily Post on 12 November 1929, Towers attended the Prince of Wales’s V.C. Dinner held in the House of Lords in November 1929 - ‘With me being a bit plump and red-faced he remembered me as I went up with my menu - “Hello, you here again!” he said’: on reaching his local railway station at 5 a.m. the following morning, Towers walked the three miles to his home and was out on the streets of Preston delivering milk by 7.30 a.m. Towers also attended the Victory Parade and V.C. Dinner at the Dorchester Hotel in June 1946, and returned to London to take part in the Centenary Review of Holders of the Victoria Cross by Her Majesty the Queen in Hyde Park on 25 June 1956. During the 1960s and 1970s he attended a number of V.C. & G.C. Association memorial services and dinners. He died at the Royal Infirmary, Preston in January 1977, aged 79, his last residence having been ‘Mericourt’, Light...
A rare ‘Rhodesia 1896’ D.S.O. group of nine awarded to Brigadier-General R. H. F. McCulloch, C.M.G., Royal Artillery, who remained with his gun after having been wounded in the attack on Skimbo in August 1896 Distinguished Service Order, V.R., silver-gilt and enamel, with integral top riband bar converted for mounting; British South Africa Company Medal 1890-97, reverse Rhodesia 1896, no clasp (Lieut. R. H. F. McCulloch. R.A.); Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 2 clasps, Cape Colony, South Africa 1901 (Capt: R. F. H. McCulloch, D.S.O., R.G.A.) last letter of surname officially corrected; 1914 Star, with clasp (Major R. F. H. McCulloch. D.S.O. R.G.A.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (Brig. Gen. R. F. H. McCulloch.); Italy, Kingdom, Order of St Maurice and St Lazarus, Officer’s breast badge, gold, silver-gilt, and enamel, with rosette on riband; France, Third Republic, Legion of Honour, Officer’s breast badge, gold and enamel, with rosette on riband; Croix de Guerre, bronze, reverse dated 1914-1917, mounted court style for display, nearly extremely fine (9) £4,000-£5,000 --- One of only 7 Distinguished Service Orders awarded for this campaign, this being unique to the Royal Artillery. D.S.O. London Gazette 7 May 1897: ‘In recognition of services in the recent operations in South Africa, 1896.’ Italian Order of St Maurice and St Lazarus London Gazette 12 September 1918. French Legion of Honour London Gazette 13 February 1917. French Croix de Guerre London Gazette 17 August 1918. Robert Henry Frederick McCulloch was born in October 1869 and joined the Royal Artillery in 1888, receiving promotion to Lieutenant in 1891. He commanded a section of 10 Mountain Battery, R. A., during the Matabeleland operations of 1896, was slightly wounded, Mentioned in Despatches and awarded the D.S.O. In his report, Major-General F. Carrington stated that McCulloch ‘worked his gun with great coolness and steadiness when the enemy were in force within 50 yards of him in the attack on Sikimbo on 5 August 1896. He remained with his gun after having been wounded.’ McCulloch's section had been operating in co-ordination with a force of men raised by the British South Africa Company. He had already witnessed a great deal of fighting during the advance on Bulawayo, which culminated with the capture of the Matabele strong holds in the Matoppo Hills. The incident referred to in Major-General Carrington’s report was probably the biggest of the campaign, five Impis being attacked by a combined Imperial Force of 800 men. The enemy were completely routed. However, at the outset of the action, when McCulloch and another gunner subaltern were ordered to detach themselves from the main force, and set up position on a ridge, the fast moving Matabele swept in for the kill, creeping up gullies under the cover of the bush. But for the prompt actions of McCulloch and his compatriot, it is probable the detachment would have been wiped out. Promoted to Captain in 1899, McCulloch served throughout most of the Boer War as D.A.A.G. on the lines of communication in Cape Colony. He afterwards became a Divisional and Militia Adjutant and held the rank of Major by the outbreak of hostilities in 1914. Picked out for command of heavy artillery, he held several senior positions, ultimately as Brigadier-General, Heavy Artillery, 11 Army Corps, France. He was created a C.M.G. in 1918, was twice Mentioned in Despatches (London Gazettes 15 June 1916 and 30 May 1918) and was decorated by the French and Italians. He retired in 1921 and died in Hayling Island, Hampshire, on 16 October 1946.
An inter-War O.B.E. group of five attributed to G. R. Storrar, Esq., Chief Engineer, Sudan Government Railways The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, O.B.E. (Civil) Officer’s 1st type breast badge, silver-gilt hallmarks for London 1927; Ottoman Empire, Order of the Medjidieh, Fourth Class breast badge, silver, gold, and enamel, with silver mark and mint mark to reverse, and rosette on riband; Khedive’s Sudan 1896-1908, no clasp, unnamed as issued; Khedive’s Sudan 1910-21, 2nd issue, 1 clasp, Darfur 1916, unnamed as issued, these four mounted court-style as worn and housed in a Spink, London, case; Defence Medal (Mr. G. R. Storrar.) contemporarily impressed naming, minor red enamel damage to Medjidieh, otherwise good very fine (5) £500-£700 --- O.B.E. London Gazette 4 June 1928: George Ronald Storrar, Esq., M.B.E., Chief Engineer, Sudan Government Railways. M.B.E. London Gazette 7 June 1918: George Ronald Storrar, Esq., Divisional Engineer, Soudan Government Railways. George Ronald Storrar served in the pre-War period as an Assistant Engineer with the Sudan Government Railway, and for his services was awarded the Ottoman Order of the Medjidieh, Fourth Class (London Gazette 9 May 1911). He remained in the service of the Sudan Government throughout the Great War, and took part in the operations against the Sultan of Darfur, for which he was Mentioned in Despatches (London Gazette 25 October 1916) and awarded the Egyptian Order of the Nile, Fourth Class (London Gazette 31 August 1917). For his services during the Great War he was also created a Member of the Order of the British Empire. Advanced Chief Engineer in the inter-War period, Storrar was advanced O.B.E. and was awarded the Egyptian Order of the Nile, Third Class (London Gazette 5 August 1925). Retiring to the U.K., he was subsequently commissioned Second Lieutenant, General List, on 11 March 1941.
A post-War O.B.E., Great War ‘Salonika’ M.C. and Serbian Order of the White Eagle group of six awarded to Second Lieutenant L. B. Greaves, South Wales Borderers, late Royal Fusiliers The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, O.B.E. (Civil) Officer’s 2nd type breast badge, silver-gilt; Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued; 1914-15 Star (P.S.2720 Pte. L. B. Greaves, R. Fus.) middle initial officially corrected; British War and Victory Medals (2 Lieut. L. B. Greaves.); Serbia, Kingdom, Order of the White Eagle, 2nd type, Fifth Class breast badge, with crossed swords, silver, silver-gilt, and enamel, very fine and better (6) £1,600-£2,000 --- O.B.E. London Gazette 8 June 1950: ‘For missionary educational services in the Gold Coast’. M.C. London Gazette 1 February 1919: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty on 25th September 1918, during the ascent of Point 1472. He led the advance of the mountain scouts over the precipitous and thickly wooded ground, and when within 1,500 yards of the objective silenced enemy rifle and machine-gun fire with the help of Lewis guns, and continued to advance. His skill and judgement contributed greatly to any success achieved by his battalion. As battalion Intelligence Officer, he has previously done good work on patrol duty.’ Serbian Order of the White Eagle, Fifth Class with Swords London Gazette 16 January 1920. Lionel Bruce Greaves was born in Cardiff in 1895, and won a scholarship to Trinity College, Cambridge, in 1914, but in November of that year attested for the 21st (4th Public Schools) Battalion, Royal Fusiliers. He served with them during the Great War on the Western Front from 14 November 1915, and later as a Lance-Corporal in the 17th Battalion Royal Fusiliers. Commissioned Second Lieutenant in the South Wales Borderers on 4 August 1916, he served with the 8th Battalion in Salonika. After a spell in hospital with Malaria in November 1917 he recovered, and on 25 September 1918, the 8th Battalion, as part of 65th Brigade, with the 67th Brigade in support, was ordered to attack Point 1472 near Lake Doiran. Lieutenant Greaves and the battalion scouts rushed a rocky knoll which was believed to be Point 1472 but was nearly 1000 yards N.W. of it. The regimental history continues: ‘This position was quickly made good, despite considerable opposition from riflemen and machine guns, which Lieutenant Greaves’ skilful handling of his Lewis guns soon overcame’. For his bravery and leadership in action, Greaves was awarded the M.C. and Serbian Order of the White Eagle. In civilian life Greaves had a keen interest in the church and missionary work and between 1922-1932 was Vice-Principal of the Wesley College, Kumasi, (Gold Coast), Ghana. During the period he wrote many articles and several books on Faith and Central Africa. For another five years he was a supervisor at various Methodist Schools in Africa, then Educational Advisor to Non-Roman Missions in East Africa until 1947, when he returned to management of Methodist Schools. In 1946 he had survived a plane crash, when the small plane he was travelling in was forced to land in the bush and he and the other passengers and pilot had to wait several days to be rescued. Between 1947-1950 he was General Manager of Methodist Schools, and was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in June 1950. He returned to the UK with his family in the mid-1950’s and continued his writing and research. After living in London for some time, his family emigrated to New Zealand, where he died in 1984. Note: The recipient’s Medal Index Card notes that the recipient’s 1914-15 Star was initially issued named ‘L. V. Greaves’, and was returned in September 1921 to be corrected to ‘L. B. Greaves’. Sold with copied research.
A post-war M.B.E. group of five awarded to Mr R. E. Manly, Air Traffic Control Officer at London Airport, formerly a Sergeant in the Royal Air Force who flew Spitfires with No. 129 (Mysore) Squadron The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, M.B.E. (Civil) Member’s 2nd type breast badge, in its Royal Mint case of issue with instructions for wearing; 1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, these all unnamed with their named card box of issue addressed to Manly at London Airport, together with the ‘Gundabherunda’ silver medal presented to the pilots of 129 Squadron by the Maharaja of Mysore in 1942, named on the reverse ‘Sgt. R. E. Manly’ and hallmarked Birmingham 1941, in its presentation case, nearly extremely fine (6) £400-£500 --- M.B.E. London Gazette 31 May 1956: ‘Richard Edward Manly, Air Traffic Control Officer II, London Airport.’ The Operations Record Book for No. 129 (Mysore) Squadron for the period January to April, 1942, based at Westhampnett, has the following mentions of Sergeant Manly: Jan. 7 - Sgt. Manly reported for flying duties. Feb. 14 - 2 Spitfires Mark VB, Sgt. Tucker, Sgt. Manly. Scramble to investigate X raid over the Isle of Wight but plot faded and they were recalled. Mar. 12 - 4 Spitfires Mark VB, including Sgt. Manly take off for patrol over damaged Destroyer with escort making for Portsmouth. Mar. 22 - Captain Binstead, the Trade Commissioner for Mysore, Mr Goodchild of the India Office, and Sir Frank Brown of the East India Company visited the squadron, and after lunch with the Station Commander at Chopwyke House proceeded to the Dispersal where after speeches by Capt. Binstead and Sir Frank Brown, the latter presented Mysore Medallions to new pilots and to the 10 Senior N.C.O’s. Mar. 25 - 6 Sections, each of 2 Spitfires Mark VB, including Sgt. Manly, ordered to patrol over Newhaven area to intercept possible enemy Rhubarb but nothing seen to report. Apl. 10 - ... in the evening the Squadron took part in a Rodeo in the Hardelot-Desires area. They provided high cover on the instructions of the Wing Leader, while many dog-fights took place below them, in the course of which the Wing Leader (Wing Commander Robinson) and the C.O. of 340 Squadron were lost. Sgt. Manly of “B” Flight had to return on the way out owing to engine failure and crash landed between Brighton and Lewes, his aircraft being Cat. E. and he himself being severely shaken and bruised. He was post N/E. sick to Tangmere and admitted to Sick Quarters. Sold with relevant copied O.R.B. extracts.
A fine Second War ‘Escaper’s M.C. group of six awarded to Captain C. N. Cross, Worcestershire Regiment, who was captured and taken Prisoner of War at Rigel Ridge, Libya, on 14 June 1942. After three previous unsuccessful attempts, he successfully escaped captivity in Italy and proceeded to make a 450 mile journey through German occupied territory Military Cross, G.VI.R. reverse officially dated ‘1944’, and additionally engraved ‘Italy Capt. Charles N. Cross, 1. Worc. R.’; 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted as worn; together with the recipient’s related miniature awards (last two plain discs only), these similarly mounted as worn, contact marks, therefore nearly very fine (6) £1,400-£1,800 --- Provenance: Glendinings, March 1995; Dix Noonan Webb, December 2004. M.C. London Gazette 9 December 1943. The original recommendation states: ‘This officer was captured at Rigel Ridge, Libya, on 14 June 1942. He was transferred to Italy and was imprisoned in Campo 21 at Chieti from 4 August 1942 to 4 August 1943. During this time he was involved in three escape schemes. On 4 August 1943, he was moved to Campo 19 at Bologna, whence he escaped on 12 September 1943, three days after the occupation of the camp by the Germans. With four other prisoners, Lieutenant Cross hid in an uncompleted tunnel which had been begun on 24 August 1943. He was the second officer to leave the tunnel and was able to climb out of the camp unobserved. In bare feet he followed the railway from Bologna to Castel S. Pietro where he obtained civilian clothes, food and 300 lire from English-speaking Italians. He then walked to Imoli and caught a train to Termoli where the train was taken over by the Germans. He evaded them and made his way from Termoli to Bari, receiving a good deal of help en route from Italians. At Bari he was able to contact British paratroops. In view of this officer’s enterprise and determination to rejoin the Allied Forces, I strongly recommend that he be awarded the Military Cross.’ Charles Napier Cross was born in Edmonton, Llandaff, Cardiff, in April 1913. Prior to the Second War he was employed as a Director of a company in Bridgend, and played for Cardiff Rugby Club, as well as being a former captain of Glamorgan Wanderers. Cross was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the Worcestershire Regiment, in April 1941. He served with C Company, 1st Battalion, Worcestershire Regiment in North Africa, and was present when the Battalion fought in a gallant defensive action against the 21st Panzer Division at Rigel Ridge, south-west of Tobruk, 14 June 1942. Cross was part of a small number of men left to cover the withdrawal of the main force, and was eventually taken prisoner of war. The story of Charles Napier Cross’ remarkable 450-mile journey through German-occupied Italy, is reported at great length in his MI9 Debrief, and was retold in a wartime feature that appeared in the Western Mail & South Wales News, on 11 December 1943, from which the following extract has been taken: ‘ ... Six British officers continued their tunnelling operations, and decided to make a new passage under the cookhouse. They knew the officers were going to be moved, and their idea was to stay in the hole, for days if necessary, and come out after the camp had moved. Then came their first shock. Five of them got into the hole and waited for 15 hours. Coming out to reconnoitre they found that instead of the Germans having left the camp they had moved the British officers and taken the camp over as a barracks. Then there was a dash for freedom, Lieutenant Cross was second of the five to escape over a 12 ft. wall surmounted by another 4 ft. of wire. Bare-footed he went over another barrier of barbed wire, ran into the vineyards and began his great trek. After walking some miles with swollen legs and blistered feet he called at a villa and asked for shoes or boots. The occupants gave him boots and civilian clothes, and speaking Italian he was able to pass as an Italian civilian. After walking another 10 miles, he came between the railway and the road that ran to a town and jumped on a train in a siding. With a handkerchief over his head to the complete the illusion that he was an Italian, he travelled for 100 miles as a passenger. At the end of this journey the Germans searched passengers for arms, but his nationality escaped detection, and he made for open country. Occasionally, he got lifts in a mule cart; more often he walked, passing from village to village until at last he decided to make for Naples. A peasant warned him that it was impossible to get over the hills so he turned back to a town on the Adriatic coast. He had little sleep, rising at about one a.m. and travelling through the night and day until 10 p.m. when he had a couple of hours’ sleep and was off again. For food he helped himself from the vineyards. In the villages he bought macaroni and spaghetti and sat at cafe tables with other Italians. Sometimes he was asked too many questions. He escaped from a difficult situation by saying he had been with one of the Bersaglieri regiments, and, pointing to a mark on his face, said he had suffered a wound which made talking difficult. He had little trouble in bluffing the Germans. Sometimes an Italian who guessed his identity would shake hands with him, and, with a sly wink, help him on his way. When some 30 miles from the British lines a group of Italians mistook him for an escaping German and put him in a local gaol. But he managed to get out and shortly afterwards arrived at a town where he met a platoon of British paratroops. Lieutenant Cross, who has owned a business in Bridgend for the past seven years, is a son of the late Mr. Ernest Cross, managing director of Messrs. Cross Brothers, Cardiff, and will be remembered among Cardiff Rugby followers as a former player with Cardiff Rugby Club and a former captain of Glamorgan Wanderers.’ Cross managed to make contact with British Paratroops at Bari, 18 September 1943, and after a debrief at HQ 5 Corps was sent the following day to Brindisi. Whilst at the latter he was interviewed by General Mason-Macfarlane, Chief of the Armistice Commission. Cross was deemed useful and travel orders were raised for him to escort Herr Thisson (former German Consul at Bari) and his wife from Brindisi to Algiers by air (see original documentation included in lot). Having carried out his duty he returned to the UK via Marrakech, and advanced to Temporary Captain in May 1944. After the war Cross resided at 1 Rectory Road, Penarth, Glamorgan, and died in August 1964. Sold with a quantity of original documentation including an Allied Forces H.Q. travel order, with several carbon copies, marked “Secret” and dated 21 September 1943, authorising the movement of ‘Herr Thisson, ex-German Consul at Bari and his wife’ to proceed from Brindisi to Algiers, with ‘Lt. C. N. Cross’ as their ‘prisoner of war guard’, together with an Italian post-marked envelope addressed to Cross at his residence in Glamorgan from the Thissons at Merano; the above quoted newspaper feature from the Western Mail & South Wales News; a letter from a freelance journalist asking the recipient for permission to recount his escape story in an edition of The Soldier magazine, dated 13 August 1959; and three photographs, one of them - that shown - believed to have been taken of the recipient while a P.O.W. in Italy; and copied research.
A particularly fine Second War D.F.C and Second Award Bar, A.F.C. group of six awarded to Wing Commander W. J. “Marmaduke” Alington, Royal Air Force Reserve of Officers, late Mercantile Marine and Royal Naval Reserve, who, having shot down two Dornier 217s flying Beaufighters at night in 1942, converted to Mosquitos, destroying or damaging seven locomotives in May 1943. Rated an ‘exceptional’ pilot, the following month he led the four most experienced Mosquito crews of 264 Squadron in executing the highly successful ‘Instep 184’ low-level night raid on the German sea plane base at Biscarosse Lake, an action that is vividly described in a secret Official Intelligence Report, the recipient’s original copy of which is included in the lot Distinguished Flying Cross, G.VI.R., with Second Award Bar, the reverse of the Cross officially dated ‘1943’ and the reverse of the Bar ‘1943’; Air Force Cross, G.VI.R., reverse officially dated ‘1941’; 1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star, 1 clasp, Atlantic; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted as worn, good very fine (6) £5,000-£7,000 --- D.F.C. London Gazette 2 February 1943: ‘This officer has completed a large number of sorties and has destroyed 2 enemy aircraft at night. He is an extremely able flight commander, whose efforts to achieve success in night fighting have been most praiseworthy.’ D.F.C. Second Award Bar London Gazette 23 July 1943: ‘This officer has displayed exceptional keenness and determination to inflict loss on the enemy. On 1 sortie, he damaged 7 locomotives. More recently, in June, 1943, he led a formation of light bombers on an operation which resulted in the destruction of 4 enemy aircraft on the ground, while much damage was caused to a hangar. In addition, a minesweeper was attacked and damaged. By his fearless and skilful leadership, Wing Commander Alington played a large part in the success of the sortie.’ A.F.C. London Gazette 30 September 1941. The recommendation (abridged) states: ‘This Officer has completed 2700 hours of instruction flying of which 595 have been flown since December, 1939. His great enthusiasm for the work is reflected in the high standard of his pupils.’ William James Alington was born on 26 March 1906 at Hythe, Kent, the son of Lieutenant-Colonel A. C. M. Alington, East Lancashire Regiment and the grandson of Admiral A. H. Alington. His two brothers also served with distinction: Paymaster Lieut.-Cdr. R. H. Alington, Royal Navy, mentioned in despatches and killed in the Mediterranean on active service in September 1943 and Wing Commander P. H. Alington, D.F.C. for gallantry as captain of a Sunderland aircraft during the evacuation from Greece, 1941. Allington initially embarked on a naval career, serving with the Mercantile Marine from 1921, and was also appointed Midshipman in the Royal Naval Reserve, 1 January 1923, advancing to Sub-Lieutenant on 12 June 1928. His attention then switched to flying, however, and having obtained his Royal Aero Club Aviator’s Certificate at Hampshire Aeroplane Club on 24 June 1932, he joined the Royal Air Force Reserve, Class “F”, as a Sergeant on 15 October 1934 - this despite having rather inauspiciously crashed his Moth on Burbage Edge near Buxton just 4 days earlier. He joined the staff of Aberdeen Airways as a pilot in 1935 and, gaining his wings in the Reserve in April the same year, he was commissioned Pilot Officer on probation in the Royal Air Force Reserve of Officers on 4 April 1936, advancing to Flying Officer, October 1937 and Flight Lieutenant, November 1940. No. 54 O.T.U. Flying Instructor - A.F.C. On 18 May 1941, whilst employed as a Flying Instructor at at No. 54 Operational Training Unit, R.A.F. Church Fenton, Alington survived another plane crash; on this occasion, whilst giving dual instruction at night on instruments in a Miles Master, his pupil inadvertently switched off the engine shortly after take-off and during the attempted forced landing a wing tip of the aircraft clipped a tree. The aircraft was written off and Both Alington and his pupil were removed to York Hospital, seriously but not fatally injured. Alington resumed flying on 10 July and later the same year he was awarded the A.F.C. in respect of his services as a Flying Instructor, both before and since the start of the war. 25 Squadron - Beaufighter nightfighter operations - D.F.C. On 27 July 1941, Alington went operational with a posting to 25 Squadron, a Beaufighter unit flying out of R.A.F. Wittering. He flew four night patrols in August and continued flying regular sweeps and patrols over the course of the the next 15 months, gaining promotion to Squadron Leader on 1 December 1941. On 24 July 1942, his logbook describes an unusual sortie in search of a pilot downed over the sea. After 2.5 hours of searching he was then directed to pursue nearby enemy aircraft but after being misidentified and chased by Spitfires he finally landed at Catford with just 30 gallons of fuel left. On 23 August, he was again shot at by friendly fighters but the same night he destroyed a Dornier 217, the enemy aircraft crashing at Sutton Bridge killing all its crew. He shot down his second Dornier 217 off Sheringham on 15 September but on 11 November 1942, after 85 night sorties, Alington was posted back to No. 54 O.T.U., with which unit he resumed Instructor duties for a few months, this time on Beaufighters. He was awarded the D.F.C. in February 1943 for his night fighter exploits with 25 Squadron. 264 Squadron - Mosquito operations - locomotives destroyed Returning to operational duties, Alington joined 264 Squadron, a Mosquito unit, on 21 March 1943. After a short period familiarising himself with the ‘Wooden Wonder’, he began flying Ranger sorties over enemy territory, one of which, on 11 May, prompted him to observe in his logbook, ’passed two 190s at opps, they went on! Met two more and had a mild dog fight, fired quite a bit of ammo but missed all the time. Collected one bullet hole in port wing. Made cloud cover and returned to base.’ Another Ranger sortie on 22 May was more productive, ‘No aircraft seen. 7 locos attacked. 3 blew up. 4 severely damaged.’ ‘Instep 184’ - Biscarosse Lake raid - Bar to D.F.C. The following month, Wing Commander Alington led a team of his four most experienced mosquito crews on the highly successful ’Instep 184’ raid on the German seaplane base at Biscarosse Lake on the Bay of Biscay, France. Departing from R.A.F. Predannack in Cornwall on 20 June 1943 at 2015 hours, Alington, in company with Flying Officer E. E. Pudsey, Squadron Leader L. T. Bryant-Fenn, Flying Officer J. L. Mason and their respective navigators approached the target at 2217 hours, having between them already destroyed an airborne Blohm und Voss 138 encountered en-route. Identifying the shapes of moored aircraft on the lake, the Mosquitos of 264 Squadron then began to systematically strafe the stricken seaplanes with cannon fire. The secret Final Intelligence Report of the raid (Alington’s original copy with lot) describes the action on the lake from the perspective of each pilot in some detail, with Alington in Red 1 orchestrating proceedings and also very much partaking: ‘Red 1 had headed towards the two aircraft farthest from the Hangars and, as he did so, saw Cannon tracer going down towards these aircraft which were in front of him. He called out to say he was coming in from the East and then saw two large E/a beam on to him. He opened up with cannon fire from approximately 600 yards on the nearer aircraft aiming a little high. Strikes were seen all over it and a fire started. He ...
A Boer War D.C.M. group of four awarded to Warrant Officer Class I G. F. Walker, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment Distinguished Conduct Medal, E.VII.R. (4145 Lc. Serjt: G. Walker, 1/L.N. Lanc: R.); Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 6 clasps, Belmont, Modder River, Paardeberg, Driefontein, Johannesburg, Diamond Hill (4145. Cpl. G. F. Walker. 1st. L.N. Lnc: Regt.); King’s South Africa 1901-02, 2 clasps, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 (4145 Serjt: G. Walker. L.N. Lanc: Regt.); Army L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue (4145 C.Sjt: G. F. Walker. L.N. Lanc: Regt.) contact marks and minor edge bruising throughout, therefore nearly very fine (4) £1,400-£1,800 --- Provenance: Dix Noonan Webb, December 1999. D.C.M. London Gazette 27 September 1901. George Frederick Walker was born in Beckton, Eseex, in 1874 and attested for the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment at Woolwich on 21 July 1893, having previously served in the 4th Volunteer Battalion, Essex Regiment. He served with the 1st Battalion in India from 7 February 1895 to 19 February 1896; in Ceylon from 20 February 1896 to 10 February 1899; and in South Africa from 11 February 1899 to 17 September 1902, being promoted Corporal on 29 December 1897. He served with the Mounted Infantry Company during the Boer War, was promoted Sergeant on 15 September 1900, and was Mentioned in Lord Roberts’ Despatch of 4 September 1901, as well as being awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal. Promoted Colour-Sergeant on 16 March 1907, he was awarded his Long Service Medal per Army Order 104 of 1912, and was discharged on 20 July 1914, after 21 years’ service. Re-enlisting into the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment following the outbreak of the Great War on 28 September 1914, Walker spent the entire War at home, being advanced Warrant Officer Class I. He was finally discharged on 8 February 1919, and was awarded a Silver War Badge. Sold with a Loyal North Lancashire Regiment cap badge; and copied research.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant Thomas Maddick, 24th Battalion, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry, later Devonshire Regiment Military Medal, G.V.R. (34633 Sjt. T. Maddick. 4/Oxf: & Bucks: L.I.); British War and Victory Medals (7790 Sjt. T. Maddock. Devon. R.); Army L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue (5608070 Sjt. T. Maddock. Devon. R.) note spelling of surname, good very fine (4) £260-£300 --- M.M. London Gazette 17 June 1919. Thomas Maddick/Maddock came from Exeter. Sold with copied M.M. and Medal Index Cards.
A Second War ‘Bolster Force, Arakan 1944’ Immediate M.M. group of five awarded to Private L. N. Wallington, 6th Battalion, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry Military Medal, G.VI.R. (5374551 Pte L. N. Wallington. Oxf. & Bucks. L.I.) in its named card box of issue; 1939-45 Star; Burma Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, nearly extremely fine (5) £1,400-£1,800 --- M.M. London Gazette 4 January 1945. The recommendation submitted by Major R. J. Northcote-Green (6 Oxf & Bucks) Commanding Bolster Force, states: ‘13/14 Sept 1944, Ponra Village, Maungdaw. On the night 13/14 Sept, the Bolster Force beech-head was heavily shelled - seventy five shells landing in the small area of the Camp. Pte Wallington was one of the two signallers manning the telephone to Force H.Q. When the shelling started Pte Wallington was at the Cookhouse and at the first lull in the shelling went to the Command Post where he found that the L/Cpl Signaller and the only Officer had been killed by a direct hit. Undaunted he set about mending the telephone line which had been cut in 8 places. This entailed working very near to the Petrol and Ammunition dumps which were on fire. Communication being established he rang up Force H.Q. and gave information of the situation. He checked the wireless set and then did a great deal to control certain non-combatants who were in confusion as a result of the shelling. By his coolness and courage he did much to restore order, thus enabling the Officer, sent down to take over to carry out evacuation. This soldier set a fine example. But for his fine efficiency and courage during the shelling, some time might have elapsed before Force H.Q. could have gained vital information.’ Major R. J. Northcote-Green was awarded the Military Cross for his gallantry on the same occasion. Louis Norman Wallington was born on 26 September 1902, and was a chair maker by trade on enlistment. Sold with named Buckingham Palace enclosure letter and letter of congratulation from General W. J. Slim on Fourteenth Army headed paper (31 October 1944), together with the recipient’s Service and Pay Book.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. and Second Award Bar group of three awarded to Lance-Corporal G. Burdett, Yorkshire Regiment Military Medal, G.V.R., with Second Award Bar (41733 Pte. -L.Cpl.- G. Burdett.2/York: R.); British War and Victory Medals (41733 Pte. G. Burdett. York. R.) edge bruise to first, good very fine (3) £600-£800 --- M.M. London Gazette 14 May 1919. M.M. Second Award Bar London Gazette 23 July 1919. Sold with copied research including relevant Battalion War Diaries.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant W. E. Kirby, Devonshire Regiment Military Medal, G.V.R. (9248 L. Cpl. W. E. Kirby. 2-Devon. R.); 1914 Star, with clasp (9248 Pte. W. E. Kirby. 2/Devon: R.); British War and Victory Medals (9248 Pte. W. E. Kirby. Devon. R.) mounted for display, generally good very fine (4) £300-£400 --- M.M. London Gazette 27 October 1916. William E. Kirby attested for the Devonshire Regiment and served with the 2nd Battalion during the Great War on the Western Front from 6 November 1914. The Battalion served as part of the 23rd Brigade, 8th Division, on the Somme in 1916.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. group of three awarded to Sergeant G. Trute, Devonshire Regiment Military Medal, G.V.R. (30247 Sjt: G. Trute. 1/Devon: R.) minor official correction to surname; British War and Victory Medals (30247 Sjt. G. Trute. Devon. R.) minor edge bruise to BWM, polished, nearly very fine (3) £200-£240 --- M.M. London Gazette 23 February 1918.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. awarded to Corporal R. Lacey, King’s Royal Rifle Corps, who died of wounds on the Western Front on 10 January 1918 Military Medal, G.V.R. (R-16600 Cpl. R. Lacey. 13/K.R.R.C.); Memorial Plaque (Rostron Lacey) nearly extremely fine (2) £300-£400 --- M.M. London Gazette 2 April 1918. Rostron Lacey was born in Haslingden, Lancashire, and attested there for the King’s Royal Rifle Corps. He served with the 13th Battalion during the Great War on the Western Front, and died of wounds on 10 January 1918. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial, Belgium. Sold together with a double-sided glazed small pocket photograph frame, one side containing a photograph of the recipient in uniform, the other a photograph of the recipient’s wife.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. awarded to Company Sergeant Major T. J. Mead, Rifle Brigade, who died of wounds on the Somme on 15 September 1916 Military Medal, G.V.R. (2429 Sjt: T. J. Mead. 9/Rif: Bde:) toned, minor edge nicks, good very fine £260-£300 --- M.M. London Gazette 27 October 1916. Thomas Joseph Mead was born in Brentwood, Essex and attested for the Rifle Brigade at Harwich, Essex, serving with them during the Great War on the Western Front from 20 December 1914. He advanced to Sergeant, and served with the 9th (Service) Battalion as part of the 42nd Brigade, 14th (Light) Division on the Somme. The Battalion were engaged at Delville Wood on 24 August 1916, and ‘entrained for Dernacourt (11/9). Moved to forward area and in line at Delville Wood by (15/9). Attack towards Flers - lost heavily from enfilade machine gun fire from right flank while approaching Bulls Road - Lieutenant-Colonel T. H. P. Morris mortally wounded and every other officer hit except one junior subaltern. Casualties - 294. To Montauban Alley (16/9)’ (British Battalions on the Somme, R. Westlake refers). Company Sergeant Major Mead died of wounds on the Western Front on 15 September 1916. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial, France.
A good Second War ‘Anzio Landings’ M.M. group of six awarded to Lance-Sergeant J. F. Thornton, Royal Signals, who died in Anzio on 16 February 1944 Military Medal, G.VI.R. (2031148 L.Sjt. J. F. Thornton. R. Signals); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, 1 clasp, 1st Army; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted as worn; together with a boxing prize medal, bronze, the reveres engraved ‘T. Bn. R. Signals. Runner Up Light Heavy. 1935. Sgn. Thornton.’, good very fine (7) £1,000-£1,400 --- M.M. London Gazette 15 June 1944: ‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Italy.’ The original Recommendation states: ‘In the assault landing on Anzio, Lance-Sergeant Thornton landed with assault Brigade Headquarters on 22 January 1944. Since that day he has carried out his duties with complete disregard of personal safety and has set a magnificent example in leadership and devotion to duty both to the line detachment and to the whole of the Signal Section. When the Brigade was holding the left Sector of the Beach Head on 23 January Lance-Sergeant Thornton was ordered to lay lines to forward Battalions. Owing to the nature of the country the possible line routes to the left Battalion were under observation and were subjected to enemy shell and mortar fire. Lance-Sergeant Thornton was continually called upon to repair breaks and his maintenance work whilst under enemy fire was beyond praise. On 1 February the Brigade was ordered to move at night to the Right of the Divisional front. 1 Loyals had previously moved to this sector and at 1130 hrs Lance-Sergeant Thornton was dispatched with one lineman to the new area to prepare line communication in advance of the move of Brigade HQ. The sector of the front which 1 Loyals were holding was under observation and the line routes to both 1 Loyals and 67 Field Regiment Royal Artillery were continuously being cut by enemy fire. Brigade HQ was established in the new area at 1945 hrs and by 2345 hrs lines were through to 1 Loyals and to the Field Regiment. Enemy fire, however, continued and the lines were in constant need of building and repair. Lance-Sergeant Thornton continued on duty in the forward areas throughout the night repairing the forward lines and also repairing the rearward route to the Divisional Signal Centre. He did not return to HQ until all the lines were reported through again at 0530 hrs on 2 February. During the subsequent eight days which the Brigade was in the line the enemy continued to shell and mortar the Brigade area and Lance-Sergeant Thornton was indefatigable in repairing and maintaining the 16 miles of cable laid in the area. That line communication on this scale had been maintained, with a detachment of only three men, under most difficult conditions, in both sectors in which the Brigade has been committed, has been entirely due to the example, set by Lance-Sergeant Thornton, of leadership, personal courage, and devotion to duty, whilst under fire. Brigadier E. E. J. Moore, D.S.O., Commanding 2 Infantry Brigade concurs in the above report and adds: “From my personal knowledge this N.C.O. has performed his duties regardless of his personal safety and has been conspicuous by his untiring energy throughout the operations in maintaining line communication. I strongly recommend the award of the Military Medal”.’ John Frank Thornton attested for the Royal Corps of Signals and served with 1 Divisional Signals during the Second World War in both North Africa and Italy. Awarded the Military Medal for his gallantry during the Anzio Landings, he died on 16 February 1944, and is buried in Anzio War Cemetery, Italy. Sold with a a portrait photograph of the recipient.
A Second War ‘Italy theatre’ M.M. group of five awarded to Corporal J. E. Baker, 2nd Battalion, Wiltshire Regiment Military Medal, G.VI.R. (5180253 Cpl. J. E. Baker. Wilts. R.); 1939-45 Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, nearly very fine (5) £800-£1,200 --- M.M. London Gazette 29 June 1944: ‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Italy.’ The original Recommendation states: ‘Corporal James Ernest Baker commanded a section in the company which held the feature Point 201. On 22 January 1944 when the enemy attacked the feature three times and temporarily occupied it, this N.C.O. showed great courage and good leadership in the attack, by directing the fire of his section and holding off the enemy until the remainder of his company had withdrawn. He remained in his position with his Bren gunner inflicting casualties on the enemy, he himself using his T.S.M.G. and 36 grenades to good effect. Both he and his gunner rejoined their company later, moving through the enemy to do so. This N.C.O.’s courage, coolness, and determination were of the highest order.’
A Second War 1940 ‘Bomber Command’ D.F.M. group of five awarded to Sergeant R. F. H. Jones, Royal Air Force, Wireless Operator and Air Gunner in No. 40 Squadron Distinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. (552118. Sgt. R. F. H. Jones. R.A.F.); 1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, these last four unnamed as issued, the first with repaired and re-affixed suspension, otherwise good very fine (5) £1,200-£1,500 --- D.F.M. London Gazette 30 July 1940. The recommendation by Air Commodore J. M. Robb states: ‘Sergeant Jones has carried out 19 operational flights since 10th May, 1940. Although he has not had the opportunity to carry out any outstanding feat, his general work against the enemy has been of an exceptionally high standard. Towards the end of May, 1940, as a result of casualties, he was of necessity sent on missions on four successive days. Sergeant Jones, by his fine spirit and indomitable courage, set an excellent example to the new crews who were posted in to replace these casualties and he was, in my opinion, very largely responsible for maintaining the esprit de corps of the squadron. I recommend the award of the Distinguished Flying Medal.’ Sold with full research including copied extracts from 207 Squadron O.R.B.
A post-War B.E.M. group of eight awarded to Staff-Sergeant A. Macfadden, Royal Corps of Transport, late Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and East Yorkshire Regiment British Empire Medal, (Military) E.II.R. (22542761 S/Sgt. Albert Macfadden, R.C.T., T.A.); General Service 1918-62, 3 clasps, Palestine, Palestine 1945-48, Malaya, unofficial rivets between clasps (4342777 Pte. A. Macfadden. E. York. R.); 1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; Korea 1950-53, 1st issue (22542761 Cpl. A. Mac.Fadden, R.E.M.E.); U.N. Korea 1950-54, unnamed as issued, mounted court-style as worn, light contact marks, good very fine (8) £600-£800 --- B.E.M. London Gazette 11 June 1966. The Recommendation, dated 29 January 1966, states: ‘Staff Sergeant Albert Macfadden served for 24 years in the Regular Army in the Infantry and latterly in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. He attained the rank of Company Sergeant Major. His service took him to the Middle East and the Far East as well as North West Europe. In addition to Wartime service he served in Palestine both before and after World War Two, during the Malayan Emergency, and in Korea. After his discharge from the Regular Army he enlisted into the Territorial Army in the Royal Army Service Corps. His Military Knowledge has proved to be of considerable value. Although of mature years his devotion to duty and enthusiasm for the well being of his unit is unflagging. His advice is frequently sought and invariably proves to be wise and helpful. He is always willing to give up his spare time to help the Territorial Army and thereby ensure that the Service he loves so well is kept well organised and trained. He is employed by the Leicestershire and Rutland Territorial and Auxiliary Forces Association as a Civilian Chief Clerk where his service is of great value, and although he could obtain employment elsewhere attracting much higher pay he steadfastly prefers to remain with soldiers.’ Archibald ‘Albert’ Macfadden was born in Salford, Lancashire, on 20 May 1911 and attested for the East Yorkshire Regiment in 1933. He served with the Regiment in pre-War Palestine; during the Second World War, and then in post-War Palestine and in Malaya. Re-enlisting in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (his new service number being a re-enlistment number), he saw further service in Korea, and was advanced to Company Sergeant Major, before transferring to the Territorial Army. Recommended for the British Empire Medal for the 1966 New Year’s Honours’ List, he eventually received the award six months later in that year’s Birthday Honours’ List. He died in Leicester in 1982. Sold with named Buckingham Palace enclosure for the B.E.M.
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