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The 'Spanish Flu 1919' O.B.E., 'Egypt' M.C. group of five awarded to Major W. F. T. Haultain, Royal Army Medical Corps, attached 29th Lancers, a graduate of Cambridge University's Officers' Training Corps, who was further 'mentioned' by General Allenby for his serviceHe went on to serve as the Zone Medical Officer with the Edinburgh Home GuardThe Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, 1st Type, Officer's (O.B.E.) Badge, silver-gilt, hallmarks for London 1919; Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued; British War and Victory Medals (Capt. W. F. T. Haultain.), with M.I.D. oak leaves; Defence Medal 1939-45, minor contact wear, overall very fine (5)O.B.E. London Gazette 3 June 1919:'… for valuable services rendered in connection with Military Operations in Egypt.'M.C. London Gazette 1 January 1919:'… for valuable services rendered in connection with Military Operations in Egypt.'M.I.D. London Gazette 5 June 1919.William Francis Theodore Haultain was born at Edinburgh on 14 January 1893, the son of Francis W. N. Haultain, a well-known obstetrician and gynaecologist. The younger Haultain studied at Edinburgh Academy before joining Caius College, Cambridge and graduated with a B.A. in 1914.He joined the Red Cross as a Dresser in August 1914 and worked with the 2nd Scottish General Hospital until April 1915 when he returned to Edinburgh to study as a Surgeon. He graduated M.B., B. Chir. in 1916, qualifying as a Surgeon. Commissioned Lieutenant from the Cambridge University Officer Training Corps on 5 August 1916 he entered the war in France on 25 August 1916.Haultain was attached to 29th Lancers as Medical Officer, at the time the unit was serving in the trenches as Infantry. They were transferred back into their more traditional role in Palestine in February 1918 where they were in action at the Battle of Magiddo. After the war he was posted to the 31st C.C.H. with the acting rank of Lieutenant-Colonel. His service papers note that he was granted specialist pay whilst a 'Surgical Specialist at 31 C.C.H.'His obituary in the International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology states:'He was awarded the M.C. later the Battle of Cambrai in 1918 and a Mention in Lord Allenby's despatches and the O.B.E. followed the excellent work he did in 1919 during the malaria-influenza epidemic in Palestine.'Going on to work at Aberdeen University he was elected to a Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh in 1922, joining 2nd Highland Field Ambulance as Major during the 1921 strike. Haultain was further noted as serving as Major with the City of Edinburgh Battalion, Home Guard as Zone Medical Officer.In his professional career he was the author of Ante Natal Care and Handbook of Midwifery and Gynaecology and was a lecturer in obstetrics and gynaecology to the School of Medicine of the Edinburgh Royal Colleges. After this he became a founder member of the College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and a Fellow of that College as well as the College of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh in 1945. Haultain retired in 1958, his obituary in the International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology reads:'In everything Haultain did there was an expression of his genuine love for and interest in his fellow men. His delight was to help, be the need great or small and the needy young or old, rich or poor. His thoughtfulness, his understanding and his unobtrusive personal contribution to the smoothing and brightening of many a path for student, colleague and friend were characteristic of his kindliness and generosity. Many will miss but remember with gratitude, this kind man.'…

The rare 'H.M.Y. Helga, Irish Sea 1918' D.S.M. group of six awarded to Leading Deck Hand E. E. Duff, Royal Navy and Merchant Fleet Auxiliary, who was in charge of Helga's gun when she was credited with sinking a German submarineDespite her Irish heritage, Helga was commandeered by the Admiralty in March 1915 and later used by the Royal Navy to shell Liberty Hall in Dublin from the River Liffey with her pair of 12-pounder naval guns during the Easter Rising of 1916Distinguished Service Medal, G.V.R. (Ldg. Dk. Hd. E. E. Duff, (A.P.) H.M.Y. Helga. Irish Sea 4. Apl 1918); Naval General Service 1915-62, 1 clasp, Persian Gulf 1909-1914 (210674. E.E. Duff, Lg. Sea. H.M.S. Highflyer.); 1914-15 Star (E.E. Duff, A.B. M.F.A.); British War and Victory Medals (E.E. Duff. D.H. M.F.A.); Mercantile Marine War Medal (Ernest. E. Duff), good very fine (6)D.S.M. London Gazette 29 November 1918, the original citation states:'HMY Helga attack on enemy Irish Sea 4 April 1918. In charge of gun when HMY Helga sank an enemy submarine.'Ernest Edwin Duff was born at Deal, Kent on 12 April 1885. A telegraph boy, he enlisted in the Royal Navy as a Boy 2nd Class on 12 April 1903. A succession of shore and sea-based appointments followed and on 21 February 1911 he was drafted to Highflyer, serving aboard her until 29 May 1913. Later that same year he was invalided from the service with myopia on 9 October.Duff married Kathleen Power in Dublin in September 1916 and despite his disability enrolled in the Merchant Fleet Auxiliary, joining H.M.Y. Helga for service during the Great War.1916 Easter UprisingChris Shouldice takes up the story in his online article 'The Captain's Table':'HMY Helga is infamously known for its role in shelling Dublin during the 1916 Rising but before she was pressed into war service, she had a far more benign profession as a protection cruiser and research vessel for the Department of Agriculture and Technical Instruction. Built in the Liffey Dockyard in Dublin in 1908 and originally named the Helga II, her purpose was to engage in fishery patrols, monitoring the coast for any illegal fishing activity. She was also equipped with a laboratory for marine research and took part in research projects like the survey of Clare Island in 1909.As the British found themselves in an unexpectedly lengthening war in Europe, she was taken over by the Admiralty in 1915 for military purposes as an armed auxiliary patrol yacht. She was renamed the HMY Helga and served as an anti-submarine patrol vessel and an armed escort.It was however in Ireland during the 1916 Rising that the Helga's most notable acts occurred. The Helga was summoned by British forces to the capital to use artillery to root out Irish Volunteers. On the 26th of April 1916, positioned on the Liffey, she raised her 12-pound artillery guns over the Loop Line railway bridge and fired at her first target Liberty Hall, the headquarters of the Citizen Army. Her shots were less than accurate, and her shells destroyed much of the surrounding buildings and beyond. She also targeted the GPO and Bolland Mills which Eamon De Valera had occupied.1918 rescuing survivors from R.M.S. Leinster.In 1918, she successful sank a German U-Boat Submarine off the coast of the Isle of Man. This was the Helga's first and sole confirmed sinking during the war. However, the presence of U-boats continued to be a real threat to the merchant and passenger vessels in the Irish Sea.In 1917, the Germans began placing their U-boats in the Approaches, the name given to the region near the entrance and exit to the Irish Sea. This was an attempt to stifle the British attempts at Trans-Atlantic trade. The RMS Leinster was typical of their targets, a passenger ship which, along with three other sister ships, made daily crossings from Kingstown (now Dún Laoghaire) to Holyhead. Known for its exceptional speed, the RMS Leinster held a place of pride in Irish eyes, as it was seen to be their representative in the commercial competition over the Irish Sea. The Leinster along with its sister ships, had won the tender for the Royal Mail delivery from Ireland to the British mainland. While it provided valuable employment to the people of Kingstown and Holyhead in Wales, the requirements of this contract were strict. There was a stipulation that the post collected in Dublin had to be delivered to the mainland the following day. This meant that the RMS Leinster ran daily, and on-time no matter the circumstances.On the morning of the 9th of October (1918), the RMS Leinster set out from Dun Laoghaire, filled to capacity, for what was to be its final voyage. Despite the U-boat warnings, that morning was no different, the war had been in action for four years, and the crossings were routinely unprotected. Furthermore, the level of censorship which the British government exercised over the press meant that many civilians were largely unaware of the danger that awaited them. Lurking under the waters off Kish Island was U-boat 123, which had already sunk two boats since it left Germany days earlier. At 09:45, the first torpedo was fired, shooting past the brow of the Leinster. The second was a direct hit, and a third torpedo sunk the entire vessel.Coaling, or refuelling, that same morning in Dublin was HMY Helga, the same ship which had been shelling the city two and a half years earlier. That day however, the Helga succeeded in being first on the scene of the Leinster sinking, and managed reach it just in time to rescue approximately 90 passengers, though there is some confusion as to the exact number. These passengers were not returned to Kingstown but disembarked in Wales. Due the controls on wartime press, the British government were keen to keep any such disasters out of the public eye'.Duff died on 11 November 1935 at Dover, at the time he was employed on the Trinity House Pilot Cutter, S.S. Prudence. (The Dover Express of 22 November 1935 refers).Sold together with his silver wound badge, this numbered B158828, a copy photo of Helga, a postcard of Highflyer, copy of Helga's ships log from the National Maritime Museum for 4-5 April 1918 and a copy of Irish Naval service.…

Cyprus Military Police Long & Good Service, G.V.R., crowned head bust, good very fineEstablished by King George V in October 1929. The Silver Medal was awarded to members of the Cyprus Military Police who received 3 good conduct awards, provided 6 years of exemplary service since the award of the third badge, and who accrued a minimum of 15 years of efficient service. Officers who were promoted from the ranks were also eligible for the award. The Medal was only awarded to 7 Officers and 54 other ranks before it was replaced by the Colonial Police Long Service Medal in 1934.…

'It is always good to know some of us survived the War, it is a long time now but looking back we were very fortunate to get into Oosterbeek at all! And then to live to tell the tale is remarkable, many of our fellow Glider Pilots didn't survive that 10 days of chaos. How you managed to get over the Rhine at the evacuation is a marvel.'So wrote Sergeant Thomas, 2nd Pilot, to Sergeant Cawthray.The well-documented Battle of Arnhem campaign group awarded to Sergeant Pilot G. Cawthray, 23 Flight, 'G' Squadron, Glider Pilot RegimentA pre-War professional cricketer who turned out for Yorkshire, Cawthray successfully went into action on Op Mallard - 6 June 1944, D-Day - and Op Market Garden, the Battle of Arnhem, sharing fully in the action over those famous days1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted as worn, good very fine (4)George Cawthray was born on 28 September 1913 at Selby, Yorkshire and from a young age excelled as a cricketer, in perhaps the most important county for that game in England. Such was his skill that Cawthray shone for Brayton School, Hull Cricket Club and eventually the Second & First XI for the 'White Rose' County.With the outbreak of the Second World War however, he joined the Glider Pilot Regiment (No. 4695914) and became a Sergeant Pilot, going through 21 EFTS during 1943 and having some 178hrs 25mins on his Flying Log Book by early May 1944 and having taken his 'Wings'.Op MallardSo it was that on 6 June 1944, flying with 23 Flight, 'G' Squadron, Glider Pilot Regiment he clocked up 2hrs of Night Flying in PW661, landing near Zetten, with Sergeant Thomas as 2nd Pilot, taking in a jeep & trailer and two motorcycles for the 1st Parachute Brigade, on D-Day itself. Little more need be said of the importance of the work of this embryonic unit on that fateful day. Cawthray was also called on as 2nd Pilot of Stirling 'B' on 26 August for an Op to France to assist the Special Operations Executive. He logged 6hrs 55mins and landed back at Harwell the next day.Op Market GardenThe unit were of course to be kept plenty busy in September 1944, Cawthray went in with Sergeant Thomas again, taking Horsa PW656 on 18 September for their fateful three hour flight by day. Cawthray got them down and then shared in the epic events that followed. His name features in the diary of Lieutenant Mike Dauncey:'18 September -S/Sgt. Cawthray of our Sqdn arrived in great form - he had landed south of the Rhine and got his party with jeep over by the ferry - a good show.Spent a shocking night hiding in our trenches on the banks of the Rhine waiting for an attack which did not materialise. Extremely cold. Had difficulty in keeping chaps awake as we were not to move about.'He gives a good flavour of what Cawthray would have shared in on 25 September:'Things started fairly early Monday morning, particularly on our left. The old tigers started coming down the road once more and I thought that if they did not have a little opposition they would go right through, so with one paratroop I took THE gammon bomb and set off through the gardens a little up the road andsettled down to wait for them at the side of a house by the road. We could hear them too clearly though they were moving very cautiously and obviously had plenty of ammunition. After a few minutes the chap with me belted off, so my local protection wasn’t too good. Eventually the tank crept into view and I waited until it was exactly level with me and ran forward and let fly with the bomb.The result was disappointing. The fuze was quite a long one so I wondered if it would work however eventually after a long pause, there was a loud explosion and lots of dust but when it had all settled down the tiger looked very much the same as before. As I only had a pistol there wasn't much future in staying put so I made my way back to my house which had been evacuated. A little further down the road there was a sort of barn complete with outhouses etc. where there were about 4 chaps rather wondering what to do We arranged a little ambush around here (after a little hand grenade duel) as of course they were quite close. I was told that they had broken through on the other side of the road and indeed this wasthe case and we had a slogging match across the street using the Bren and pistols.Just then someone shouted "Look out here they come" and two chaps darted off. However luckily it wasn’t true. However I was then shot through the thigh. The two other chaps with me one of them wounded in the face were very good. We all got down one man looking out for the jerries and the other helped me to dress my leg. We had just done that and were deciding on the next step when something came over the corner of the outhouse and landed about 3 feet away. I turned to see what it was and the grenade exploded immediately in my face. The two paraboys were excellent and put a shell dressing over my mouth. I could think clearly but felt very weak. The two chaps then helped me to the RAP which unfortunately wasso full that I couldn’t get inside. I was left outside by the side of a dead manwhere I stayed for some time until awakened by the rain when I managed to pull the dead man’s blanket partly over myself. I couldn’t get to that house though and stayed there until someone came outside and I managed to attract his attention.The MO had been hit and it was impossible for the orderly and Padre to do anything as there must have been at least 300 chaps there. The drill was get a blanket, find a spot to lie down and a cup of char (tea) but unfortunately this came out again through the hole in my chin which I have since heard from other people was a most amazing sight. The padre then did a very good thing - I don’t know the time but fighting was going on all around with the tigers knocking all the houses for six as usual and he went outside with the Red Cross flag and told the tank commander the situation with the result that we were left alone.'Cawthray was lucky not to go 'in the bag', as recalled in a letter by Sergeant Thomas:'...It is always good to know some of us survived the War, it is a long time now but looking back we were very fortunate to get into Oosterbeek at all! And then to live to tell the tale is remarkable, many of our fellow Glider Pilots didn't survive that 10 days of chaos. How you managed to get over the Rhine at the evacuation is a marvel.'The Log Book confirms his flight from Brussels to Northolt on 29 September as 2nd Pilot on Dakota DK866, no doubt glad to have a break from the controls. Cawthray then transferred out to India.25001 SALEROOM NOTICE:A newspaper report in the Sunday Mirror of 17 December 1944 gives moving details on how Cawthray swam the Rhine out of Arnhem, carrying a letter for his good friend, Sergeant Pilot Stanley Lewis, which he carried home to his wife and children to let them know he was thinking of them. Cawthray stated: "I am very lucky to be alive myself, having had my nose and both lips shot away, as well as bullet wounds in the head. Once again, please don't worry about Stanley - he's being well cared for."

The 'South Persia 1918' M.M. awarded to Lance Corporal P. Batson, 21st Lancers, attached South Persia RiflesMilitary Medal, G.V.R. (1940 L.Cpl. P. Batson. 21/Lrs:), heavy polishing and contact wear overall, nearly very fineM.M. London Gazette 10 September 1918.Percy Batson entered the war at Hafiz on 5 September 1915 with the 21st (Empress of India's) Lancers, he would doubtless have taken part in the Regiment's famous V.C. winning action at Shabqadar. However he is unlikely to have remained there for long being attached to the South Persia Rifles. This unit was formed in response to the chaos which infected Persia in the wake of the outbreak of the Great War. The local tribes were restive at the best of times, especially with the Government becoming increasingly unpopular and worse they were being incited to revolt by German agents.In order to combat this threat, the British persuaded the Persian Government to allow them to raise a force of 11,000 men with the goal of stabilising the situation around the vital oil fields. Commanded by Sir Percy Sykes the unit consisted of local Persians trained and commanded by British officers and N.C.O.s, they were supported by Indian troops and later by Dunsterforce and Norperforce in North Persia.It appears that Batson- who is listed as attached to the formation on his M.M. medal card- was serving with them likely as a British N.C.O. training and leading part of the cavalry detachment. His service here further entitled him to a General Service Medal with a South Persia Clasp. Notably Batson is further entitled to an India General Service Medal with a clasp for Afghanistan 1919 where he is listed as attached to the 'Persian Gendarmerie'. This unit- set up by Swedish Officers in 1910- had been largely superseded by the South Persia Rifles however when the latter unit was disbanded it again became the primary tool for keeping order in the Persian hinterlands.Batson was discharged in 1919 but re-joined almost at once on 26 July 1919, listing his address as Chiswick where he was working as a machinist. Joining the Royal Tank Corps he served until 7 December 1928 when he was finally discharged; sold together with copied research.Further entitled to a 1914-15 trio, a G.S.M. with South Persia Clasp and I.G.S.M. with Afghanistan 1919 clasp.…

The 'Trench Raid' 1916 M.M. group of five awarded to Private C. Murray, 19th Battalion, Australian Imperial Force, a Gallipoli veteranWounded in the neck during the second attempt on the Maze trench in November 1916, he survived and went on to become a famous artist in AustraliaMilitary Medal, G.V.R. (1073 Pte. C. Murray. 19/Aust:Inf:Bn:); 1914-15 Star (1073 Pte C. Murray. 19/Bn. A.I.F.); British War and Victory Medals (1073 Pte C. Murray. 19 Bn. A.I.F.); Gallipoli Star 1914-15, marked to the reverse 'Collector's Item' and thus an unofficial award, light pitting and contact wear overall, very fine (5)M.M. London Gazette 21 September 1916, the original recommendation states:'For conspicuous bravery during period 25/28 July, 1916. During 48 hours intense bombardment of Pozieres, Pte Murray displayed great gallantry and ability in attending to wounded and carrying them in by night and day. For him to do this it was necessary from him to move outside the front line on the parados and also to bring his wounded men across open ground. He carried out his work with the utmost coolness under shell fire'Originally recommended for the D.C.M.Christopher William Murray was born at Geelong, Victoria on 8 September 1885, the son of John and Jane Murray, both native of Ireland. The young Murray's parents both died before he was ten leaving himself and his older brother as orphans. Made a ward of a state as a result he was placed at St. Augustine's Orphanage in Geelong where he learned the trade of boot making. He was also a member of the famous St. Augustine's band, discovering a love for music and art which would remain with him for the rest of his life. He studied art firstly at Geelong before joining the Melbourne Art Gallery and finally the Slade School of Art in London.Enlisting on 28 May 1915 in New South Wales, Murray stated his trade as 'Artist' and was initially posted to 7/1st Battalion, A.I.F. However Murray's musical flare came to the fore and he applied to join the Band of 'C' Company, 19th Battalion. Joining them on 15 June 1915 he embarked upon the Ceramic and travelled to Egypt before entering the war at Gallipoli on 21 August 1915.On the first day in the field the Battalion entered the Battle of Hill 60, they were later also engaged at Pope's Hill. 19th Battalion finally withdrew during the evacuation in January 1916 and returned to Egypt for a turn on the Suez Canal Defences. Once they had re-organised, they proceeded to France on 18 March 1916.Not long after they arrived in France Murray was one of a small group who volunteered to undertake a trench raid near Pozieres where they would shortly go into action in the Battle of the Somme. Just 6 officers and 65 other ranks took part, the raid was considered extremely dangerous and in recognition of their gallantry in undertaking it each man who took part had a note of recognition made in their service papers.It was during the Battle of Pozieres the following month that Murray was to earn his laurels. However, his luck ran out and he was seriously wounded by a gunshot in the neck near Guedecourt, North Flers on 5 November 1916. At the time the Battalion was engaged in a major attack against the Maze feature, and he was successfully recovered from the battlefield and taken to hospital.The severity of the wound required some years of recuperation after which Murray was detached to No. 3 Australian Auxiliary Hospital on 17 February 1918. He remained serving there until the end of the war, not long after his detachment he was granted leave to study figure painting at the Slade School of Art in London. Murray returned to Australia on 22 August 1919 and was discharged on 7 December 1919, becoming a well-known artist in Australia as stated in his obituary, written on 2 January 1959:"He was a painter known to the Melbourne Art Club, and praised by some critics, as 'artist's artist'. He was a musician who built himself a "cello" of Australian wood and he was a bootmaker. Born at Geelong 73 years ago, he became an orphan early in life. At the orphanage he learned the trade of boatmaking, and was a member of the famous St. Augustine's band which, under the direction of the well-known band leader, travelled all over Australia. He studied painting at Geelong, the Melbourne Art Gallery and the Slade School of Art in London.He served in the 1st world war as a stretcher bearer, and won the Military Medal for gallantry in the trenches of France. After the war he made his living as a musician. He loved to work with his hands and occupied the last years of his life making the thousands of bricks of his home and studio at Emerald."Murray died at Emerald, Queensland in January 1959; sold together with copied research.…

An excellent 'Burma 1944' M.M. awarded to Sapper J. Ghag, Bombay Sappers and Miners Group, Indian Engineer Corps, who was extremely unlucky to have his award downgraded from the I.D.S.M.Military Medal, G.VI.R. (53241 Spr. Jaising Ghag Bombay S & M G R I E), heavy contact marks, very fineM.M. London Gazette 16 November 1944, the original recommendation states:'At Phalbung near Palel on the 25th of April 1944 No. 53241 Sapper Jaising Ghag was a member of a Patrol- Part of the patrol- was surrounded in open ground by the enemy- Jemadar Bajrang Kale with four men, including Sapper Jaising Ghag, were detailed to give covering fire to the remainder whilst they escaped. The Jemadar and his party then found themselves cut off so they had to withdraw by another route which was blocked by a party of Japanese. Without hesitation they charged again but being outnumbered were all overpowered and left for dead- Jemadar Bajrang Kale was killed by the sword of a Japanese officer. Sapper Jaising Ghag received a blow from a sword which cut the back of his neck from ear to ear severing the muscle and bone from the back of his skull and leaving it hanging loose down his back. After about two days Sapper Jaising Ghag, recovering consciousness found himself lying amongst a number of dead Japanese, without his boots and part of his clothing. He took some boots off a dead Japanese and searching the bodies obtained a valuable identification. After five days, during which time he was without food, he met a Gurkha Patrol which brought him in.By his gallant action and devotion to duty Sapper Jaising Ghag not only helped to kill several Japanese but also brought in a valuable identification which was the object of the Patrol.'Jaising Ghag was serving with No. 402 (R.B.) Indian Field Company, Indian Engineers when he won his award, attached to 80 Brigade, 20th Division. He was recommended for the I.D.S.M. but was downgraded to the M.M.; sold together with copied research.…

The 94th RegimentThe 94th Regiment was stationed at Aldershot when a sudden order was received on 12 February 1879, directing it to Natal. All officers and men were recalled at once, with a further 350 volunteers joining to bring the Regiment to war strength. The men embarked from Southampton aboard the S.S. China and arrived at Durban on 2 April.Forming part of Newdigate's Division, the 94th formed at advance post at Conference Hill, where they built two forts and a stone laager under the direction of officers from the Royal Engineers.At the battle of Ulundi, the 94th was the only regiment in Newdigate's Division that had six companies present; in the engagement, two of its men were killed and one officer and eighteen men were wounded. Following Ulundi, the Regiment retired to Entonjaneni and subsequently assisted in disarming the Zulus and dismantling Sekukini's stronghold. It also bore the grim duty of burying those who fell at the Zlobane on 28 March.During the opening clash of the First Boer War in 1880, A & F Companies of the 94th Foot were attacked in the Battle of Bronkhorstspruit where they would take significant casualties losing 156 men killed or wounded with the rest taken as Prisoners of War. The other 6 Companies would end up under siege for the rest of the war.992 Medals were issued to the 94th Regiment, 948 of them with the '1879' clasp.South Africa 1877-79, 1 clasp, 1879 (...Patk. Lacey. 94th Foot.), attempted erasure over most of naming, thus fineConfirmed as Quartermaster of the 94th Foot upon the roll.…

The outstanding Second World War C.B., 'Southern Desert, Iraq' O.B.E., Great War Fighter "Aces" D.F.C. mounted group of fourteen miniature dress medals worn by Dolphin Pilot Air Commodore F. Woolley, Royal Air ForceCredited with 4 victories, but possibly as many as 8 from July to November 1918, he served as a Special Service Officer with Air Staff Intelligence in Iraq where he spent three years in the desert with Bedouin tribesmen collating intelligenceDuring the Second War he served as Chief Intelligence Officer, Headquarters Mediterranean Allied Air Forces 1943-45The Most Honourable Order of the Bath, Companion's (C.B.) Badge, silver-gilt and enamel; Order of the British Empire, Military Division, Officer's (O.B.E.) Badge, silver-gilt; Distinguished Flying Cross, G.V.R.; British War and Victory Medals 1914-18; General Service 1918-62, G.V.R., 1 clasp, Southern Desert, Iraq; 1939-45 Star; Africa Star with rose on riband; Pacific Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; United States of America, Legion of Merit, gilt and enamel, with miniature Star on riband; Belgium, Kingdom, Croix de Guerre, mounted as worn, slight wear to enamel on Order of the Bath, overall very fine (14)His full-size medals sold in these rooms in April 2014.C.B. London Gazette 1 January 1946.O.B.E. London Gazette 3 June 1931. The original recommendation reads:'This Officer has been a Special Service Officer in Iraq since March 1928. Although occupying the most lonely and isolated post in the whole Command, he has consistently displayed, under extremely trying conditions, a tact, patience, and perseverance which are worthy of the highest praise.'D.F.C. London Gazette 3 June 1919.M.I.D. London Gazette 2 June 1943.United States, Legion of Merit London Gazette 27 November 1945. The original recommendation reads:'Air Commodore Frank Woolley, Royal Air Force, as Chief Intelligence Officer, Headquarters Mediterranean Allied Air Forces from February 1943 to May 1945, displayed wise judgment and unqualified devotion to duty in the successful fulfilment of his assignment. Called upon to furnish a synthesis of all intelligence information regarding conduct of operations and to integrate the Anglo-American intelligence structure of the headquarters, he overcame many obstacles to provide source information of high value and veracity and at the same time achieved a smoothly functioning, closely knit intelligence organization. Commodore Woolley's exceptional ability was of great benefit to the conduct of air operations.'Belgium, Croix de Guerre London Gazette 15 July 1919.Frank Woolley was born in Ilkeston, Derbyshire in 1899 and was educated at the County Secondary School. He joined the Army straight from his school O.T.C. on his 18th birthday, and was accepted for a Commission in the Territorial Forces Association. Posted to the 7th Training Reserve Battalion at Rugeley, he subsequently applied to join the Royal Flying Corps, and after initial tutoring at Denham was Commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the R.F.C. on 7 November 1917.Woolley went to France in July 1918 where he was posted to No.1 Aero Supply Depot before receiving his first operational posting on 14 July with No. 79 Fighter Squadron (Sopwith Dolphins), based at St. Marie Cappel east of St. Omer, with whom he fought and flew for the rest of the War. He was without doubt heavily engaged with the enemy for the next four months, '...and the local papers in his home town of Ilkeston credited him with eight victories, and recorded that he himself had been shot or forced down no fewer than three times, evidence of an exciting four months' flying.' (Winged Warriors, Derbyshire Fighter Pilots in World War I, by Barry Marsden refers).His first victory occurred on 27 September, when, according to an account that appeared in the Ilkeston Advertiser, 'he was on readiness at his home base when word was received that an enemy two seater was busy on a reconnaissance over the British front line. He was ordered to intercept the hostile aircraft, and, piloting a Dolphin, sighted it below him somewhere north-west of Armentieres. The first burst from his twin Vickers killed the enemy observer, and the subsequent running battle took both warplanes over the town, where the observation machine suddenly dived away to smash through the roof of a building. When Frank landed back at his home airfield his delighted CO praised his "splendid effort", and promised that "the facts would be reported to the proper quarter".' (ibid). Woolley's own account of the action confirms this: 'I was at 2,000 feet among the clouds South West of Armentieres when I saw a hostile 2-seater, probably an Albatros, about 1,000 feet below me. On being engaged the enemy aircraft dived towards Armentieres. I dived after him and fired two bursts into him at close range. The enemy aircraft spun and crashed into a house in Armentieres.' (recipient's combat report refers).The following day Woolley shot down another aircraft: 'I saw 10 Fokker Biplanes attacking a Bristol Fighter. I climbed into a cloud at 6,000 feet whilst Lieutenant McNeaney attacked the enemy machines. A dog fight ensued in which I saw two Fokkers go down after which Lieutenant McNeaney went down, followed by a Fokker. I attacked this enemy aircraft and fired a short burst at point blank range, and saw him go down and crash.' (Ibid).A month later on 26 October, Woolley despatched an L.V.G. two-seater at 3,000 feet south-east of Renaix before recording his final confirmed victory on 4 November, when 'at 9,000 feet I spotted a Halberstadt two-seater working over Renaix. I flew north and then east and so got east of him and in the sun. I then dived on the enemy aircraft who turned west and then north. I fired a burst at very close range. The enemy aircraft went into a vertical dive and crashed in a gulley between Sulsique and Renaix.' (Ibid).After the Armistice Woolley took up adjutant duties with the Squadron and became a Flight Commander, the Squadron became part of the Allied Occupation Force in December and moved to Cologne. Here he accepted the opportunity to fly numerous surrendered German aircraft, including Fokker DVIIs, Rumplers, and Halberstadts. Whilst stationed in Germany he learnt of the award of his D.F.C. and also received the Belgian Croix de Guerre, having the latter pinned on his chest by King Albert himself. He transferred to the unemployed list in October 1919, but was recalled to a short-service Commission the following June and served at R.A.F. Lee-on-Solent and Calshot. Qualifying as a pilot flying seaplanes and multi-engined flying boats, he fell in love with the Solent area, and wrote to tell his fiancée: 'I am sure that you will love this place too, and if I live long enough to retire this is where we shall live.'Southern Desert, Iraq - With the BedouinIn July 1927 Woolley was appointed to a permanent Commission in the General Duties branch of the Royal Air Force and, having been promoted Flight Lieutenant in January 1928, he embarked upon a course in Arabic at the School of Oriental Studies in London. After completing the course in March he was immediately posted to HQ Iraq as a Special Service Officer with Air Staff Intelligence, and for the next three years was responsible for the collection of intelligence in the vast unmapped desert west of Basra, spending the time living with the Bedouin tribesmen, 'sharing the hardships of their primitive, nomadic lifestyle, enduring searing heat, frequent dust and sandstorms, plagues of flies, and living off revolting food and foul water.' (Win…

Sold by Order of a Direct DescendantThe very complete 1985 C.B.E. and 'Arctic Convoys' group of nine awarded to Sub Lieutenant J. R. S. Homan, Royal Navy, who served on the aircraft carrier H.M.S. Tracker, latterly Industrial Director of the National Economic Development OfficeThe Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, Civil Division, 2nd Type, Commander's (C.B.E.) neck Badge, silver and silver-gilt, with full and miniature neck ribbons, in case of issue; 1939-45 Star; Arctic Star, with its named box of issue; Pacific Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, these five mounted as worn; together with Russia, Soviet Union, Ushakov Medal, reverse officially numbered '5182' with accompanying named certificate in case of issue; Russia, 70th and 75th Anniversary of the Great Patriotic War Medals, with accompanying named award certificates, good very fine (9)C.B.E. London Gazette 15 June 1985.John Richard Seymour Homan - or "Dick" to his friends and comrades - was born at Burley, Hampshire on 7 January 1925, the son of Captain Charles Edward Homan. He was initially educated at a pre-prep school in London then to St. Wilfrid's, Seaford in Sussex and in 1938 he attended Radley College before entering the Royal Navy in 1943 as a Midshipman. Classified as an 'Executive Special' he was posted to the Admiralty in London working in the personnel department. Requesting active service, he was posted to Tracker, an aircraft carrier, where he was given the job of plotting U-boat locations.Tracker served as an escort during 1943-1944 for North Atlantic and Arctic convoys. She originally carried Swordfish torpedo-bombers and Seafire fighters of No. 816 (Naval Air) Squadron, in January 1944, switching to the Grumman Avengers and Grumman Wildcats of No. 846 (Naval Air) Squadron. In April 1944, her aircraft, together with those from Activity were responsible for the sinking of the U-288 east of Bear Island, during convoy JW-58.On 10 June 1944, while part of the antisubmarine screen of the Western Approaches Command for the D-Day landings, she collided with a River-class frigate of the Royal Canadian Navy, Teme, causing damage to both ships. Tracker continued operations despite stove-in bows until 12 June 1944. Thereafter, she was repaired and partially refitted in Liverpool, until 7 September 1944. On 8 December 1944, the ship sailed to the United States to be used as an aircraft transport and spent the remainder of the war ferrying aircraft and personnel in the Pacific.Homan recounted her tenth and last convoy patrol to Murmansk in October 1944, in an interview he gave in 2020:'We escorted a Russian convoy to Murmansk. The Germans could by this time no longer use the west coast of France because of the Allied invasion, and so many U boats were sent to the Arctic. We were in a powerful convoy with three aircraft carriers, 25 other warships and about 28 merchant ships. Many of the merchant ships came from the U.S.A., carrying food and military equipment for the Russians, everything from planes, tanks, guns and ammunition down to boots.Despite the size of the convoy the U boats didn't know we were there until we got to the north of Norway, so the first part was peaceful. I say peaceful but, at that time of year, it was dark most of the day and pretty stormy and very cold. Twilight was about 1pm. We would fall back from the convoy to fly off our aircraft. The bravery of those pilots was incredible.Many were in exposed open cockpits and would have to take off from their carrier surging up and down in a rough sea. One of our aircraft got lost and had to break radio silence. That alerted Berlin who sent a wolf pack of U boats after us. We were heading due east and Berlin anticipated, quite correctly, that we would change our course to southeast, which is where the U boats went. However, London picked up Berlin's signal and instructed us to continue travelling east. The U boats missed us. It was not a complete triumph.Sending our aircraft after the U boats we were equipped with some wonderful new secret weapon, which unfortunately bounced harmlessly off the conning tower. I remember one disappointed pilot coming back and saying, "there goes my DSC". It was quite unusual that the convoy completed its journey there and back without loss of a single ship. I didn't realise until after the war that the Admiralty instruction to change from our original course was based on information from Bletchley. We had been unaware of Bletchley's existence.'U.S. Navy loan: December 1944 - July 1945Tracker left Greenock on 8 December 1944 and reached New York in time for Christmas, she was to stay there until New Year's Eve when she put to sea headed for the Panama Canal and reached San Diego on 17 January 1945. Here the ship's company received the same levels of hospitality they had enjoyed at Portland while the ship was being built. Books, magazines, music, sports kit, and more were donated to the ship for the men's 'comforts' by the Red Cross and U.S. Armed Forces Institute.After a week in San Diego, Tracker moved to San Pedro for the next five days, and opportunity was taken for the crew to experience Hollywood and film stars 'popped in' to visit the ship. By the end of January, she was full of aircraft and passengers bound for Hawaii and American bases in the Pacific. Her first voyage in the transport role took her to the Admiralty Isles and New Guinea in then back in San Diego, arriving back there on 20 March, a round trip of 13,424 miles taking two months. On the return trips Tracker carried U.S. personnel and casualties back to Pearl Harbour.Her second transport run was to Guam and Saipan in the Mariana Islands in April, during this trip the news of President Roosevelt's death reached the ship and her passengers, a memorial service was held on board. V.E. day, 8 May 8, was celebrated on the last leg from Hawaii three days out from San Diego and the end of a 13,020-mile trip.Tracker's third trip took her to the Marshal Islands and back, a shorter, 10,000 miles haul from 12 June-8 July. This was her last operation for the U.S. Navy, she had ferried 300 aircraft and 100 passengers in her three voyages and had steamed 36,000 miles across the Pacific. After storing ship Tracker was to proceed back to Britain, leaving San Diego on 13 Friday having exchanged a few crew members with her sister C.V.E. Atheling, also on transport duties; those men on Atheling who qualified for release under the recently announced 'Age & Service Release Scheme', with Tracker's 'newbies' filling their billets. She reached Norfolk, Virginia on 27 July and New York three days after.Homeward boundThis was to be Tracker's last east bound crossing, carrying on board American wives of British Naval personnel, evacuated children, and over a hundred members of the Fleet Air Arm from the Air Station in New Brunswick which was closing down. She made Greenock on 9 August and disembarked her passengers; work began almost immediately de-storing Tracker in preparation for her final voyage, her return to the U.S. Navy, her service with the Royal Navy ending.The war over, Homan read classics at Christ Church College, Oxford from 1946 graduating with a degree in philosophy, politics and economics. A keen oarsman during his time at the House was part of the team who won Head of the River in 1948. He was a lifelong member of Christ Church Boat Club.Homan joined the I.C.I. with whom he spent the bulk of his working career. He married The Hon. Mary Graham Buckley, daug…

Sold by Order of a Direct DescendantThe unique and superbly well-documented 'Far East Communication Squadron 1950' A.F.M. group of seven awarded to Master Signaller J. B. C. Browne, Royal Air Force, who was awarded his Nuclear Test Medal for the 'Christmas Airways' flights to Christmas Island during Operation GrappleBrowne's remarkable career saw him flying during the Second World War, earning his A.F.M. in the east for flights which included missions to China redacted from his service papers and flying the Royal Couple during their 1961 Royal Tour of NepalAir Force Medal, G.VI.R. (571907 Sig. I. J. B. C. Browne. R.A.F.); 1939-45 Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; General Service 1918-62, 2 clasps, Malaya, Arabian Peninsula (571907 Sig. I.A. J. B. C. Browne. R.A.F.), the second detached in its named box of issue; Royal Air Force L.S. & G.C., E.II.R. (M. Sig. J. B.C. Browne. (571907) R.A.F.); Nuclear Test Medal, unnamed as issued, the first six mounted as worn, the last in its named box of issue, sold together with a large archive including the recipient's flying log books, minor contact wear to sixth, overall good very fine (7)A.F.M. London Gazette 8 June 1950, the original recommendation states:'Signaller I Browne joined the Squadron in October, 1948, having been in Japan from October, 1947, and has been employed as a V.I.P. Signaller. He is a first class non-commissioned officer with exceptional technical ability, having consistently held an 'A' category since August, 1946. During the last six months he has completed 300 flying hours on some of the most important flights assigned to this Squadron, and he has also extended his 'A' category to cover York aircraft as well as the Dakota, the type in which he is primarily signaller and, on numerous long distance flights during his tour of duty in the Far East Communication Squadron, he has carried out his duties in an exemplary manner. He has shown ability, coolness and enthusiasm and is an outstanding non-commissioned officer.'Note the Recipient's Flying Log Book for the period of 1947-1952 is missing, it is believed to have been recalled owning to a redacted mission in China rather than misplaced or lost.John Blake Cameron Browne (who later changed his surname to Howard) was born in Kensington, London on 19 February 1922, the son of Andrew and Wilhelmina 'Billy' Browne. His father was a former professional soldier who served as a Sergeant-Major with the Essex Regiment and was seriously wounded in the leg at Gallipoli. He appears to have suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder and left the family in 1929 leaving his wife to raise the children herself. The young Browne received only a basic education however this was enough for him to pass the entrance tests for an apprenticeship at R.A.F. Halton on 24 August 1937.He was initially posted to the Electrical and Wireless School before transferring to No. 2 Wireless School on 26 March 1938. He must have proven himself a quick learner as he was soon selected to leave Halton for Cranwell, where he specialised as a Signaller. He was still there on the outbreak of the Second World War on 3 September 1940, they spent the day dispersing the aircraft around the perimeter of the airfield in case of air raids.The Second World WarQualifying as Wireless Electrical Mechanic on 29 January 1940, Browne reached his majority the next month on 19 February and was appointed Aircraftman Class I the same day. Posted first to No. 29 Squadron and advanced Leading Aircraftman on 1 April 1940 he served with them at R.A.F. Digby. Here he was on the receiving end of several bombing raids, being promoted Corporal on 31 December 1940. The Squadron re-equipped with Bristol Beaufighters to replace their old Blenheims not long later.Transferring to R.A.F. Pembury he undertook an air gunner's course, becoming qualified on 6 January 1943 and advanced Sergeant on 7 January. Joining No. 10 Radio School Carew Cheriton, he served there until 17 February 1943 when he was posted to Coastal Command's 131 Operational Training Unit which was located on Loch Erne in Northern Ireland. There he had his first flight on a Catalina flying boat on 18 February.Having qualified, Browne was posted to the newly formed 265 Squadron based in Northern Madagascar. After a gruelling journey across Africa, he finally reached the posting in early June and began to undertake fleet escort and search and rescue missions as Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. Racking up increasing Operational flying time in December he had 250 hours and was advanced Flight Sergeant on 6 January 1944.Over the next year he was to continue in this role, adding Meteorological Flights to his duties. The last of Browne's wartime flying was with 265 Squadron having undertaken 562 hours of Operational flight with them and an impressive 1076 hours in total. Posted to R.A.F. Wymeswold on 5 May 1945, he arrived on 8 May - V.E. Day - to discover the station all but deserted, the guard on the front gate informed him that everyone was celebrating in the pub.V.I.P. Flying, a Redacted Mission and a Crash LandingBrowne retrained with Douglas Dakotas and was soon posted to 147 Squadron, flying for Transport Command. This Squadron flew from Britain to Europe allowing Browne to assemble a collection of European banknotes which he stuck into his log books.Joining 24 Squadron for V.I.P. transport flights in October 1946 he was posted to the British Commonwealth Air Force in Japan the following year. The next year Browne again moved, this time to the Far East Communications Squadron. Two months after he joined them a period of one week on his service records is redacted, this combined with his missing log book covering this period is suggestive of a clandestine mission. The cataloguer must leave it to the reader to imagine the nature of this work however it occurred at a time that Browne was known to have been flying to China, then embroiled in the Civil War.Returning to Britain in April 1950 he was awarded the Air Force Medal at R.A.F. North Luffenham for his work with the Far East Communication Squadron. His work there had also entitled him to the Malaya bar for his General Service Medal however this would not be issued at the time and Browne was to receive the G.S.M. for a separate campaign. Joining 242 Operational Conversion Unit as a Trainer and he was recommended a Commission at that point however he rejected the offer, feeling that he preferred his role as a Warrant Officer.Returning to No. 24 Squadron on 6 December 1953 he rang in the new year with a promotion to Master Signaller on 31 December. One of his early flights here on 22 May 1954 was transporting Anthony Eden (then Foreign Secretary) and Lord Ismay (then Secretary General of Nato) from Geneva to Paris and thence to Britain. A further flight in July almost led to disaster as the crew lost their way between Suffield, Alberta and Britain. An S.O.S. signal was sent out and after a tense period of waiting were picked up by a passing liner which was able to give them their co-ordinates, with their available fuel they were just able to make an emergency stop at the Azores Islands.That same year he performed trips to Australia which included the transport of material and personnel involved in the developing Nuclear programme. During one routine training mission the next year out of R.A.F. Abingdon the Hastings aircraft Browne was flying in crashed on landing. Fortunately the crew were all unharmed although the aircraft itself lost a wing. The next year he transferred to No. 47 Squadron flying mostly to the Middle East, Cyprus and Malta.Christmas Island Airways and Operation GrappleBrowne had alr…

A fine 'Battle of Jutland 1916' D.S.M. group of four awarded to Chief Engine Room Artificer 1st Class F. Dymond, Royal Navy, who served on H.M.S. Temeraire being rewarded with both the D.S.M. and a commendation for his services and later a 'mention'Distinguished Service Medal, G.V.R. (268895. F. Dymond, C.E.R.A.1.Cl. H.M.S. Temeraire. 31 May - 1 June 1916.); British War and Victory Medals (268895. F. Dymond. C.E.R.A. 1. R.N.); Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., G.V.R. (268895 Frank Dymond, C.E.R.A.1cl., H.M.S. Suffolk.), mounted as worn, light contact marks, good very fine (4)D.S.M. London Gazette 1 January 1917.M.I.D. London Gazette 15 September 1916.Frank Dymond was born at Dunchideock, Devon on 24 April 1875 and joined the Royal Navy as an Acting C.E.R.A. 4th Class on 4 January 1897. After a succession of shore and sea-based appointments and advancement to C.E.R.A. 1st Class in 1909, he joined H.M.S. Temeraire on 30 September 1913 and served in her throughout the Great War. He was with her at the Battle of Jutland, 31 May to 1 June 1916, for which action he was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal. His service papers further note a commendation for his actions during the Battle.On 31 May 1916, Temeraire was the fifteenth ship from the head of the battle line after deployment. During the first stage of the general engagement, the ship fired five salvos from her main guns at the crippled light cruiser S.M.S. Wiesbaden from 18:34, claiming two or three hits. At 19:17, the ship fired seven salvos at the battlecruiser S.M.S. Derfflinger, but did not make any hits. About ten minutes later, Temeraire engaged several German destroyer flotillas with three salvos from her main armament without result. This was the last time that the ship fired her guns during the battle. She received no damage and fired a total of 72 twelve-inch shells (all high explosive) and 50 shells from her four-inch guns during the battle.Dymond was shore pensioned on 2 June 1919.…

The campaign group of six awarded to Private W. R. P. Seymour, Gloucestershire Regiment, late Royal West Kent RegimentSeymour was wounded in action in Italy in October 1944 and went on to be one of the 'Glorious Glosters' who was taken a Prisoner of War with 8 Platoon, 'C' Company at the Battle of Imjin River, April 19511939-45 Star; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45; Korea 1950-53 (3959731 Pte. W. R. P. Seymour. Glosters.); U.N. Korea 1950-54, mounted court-style as worn, good very fine, together with his United States Presidential Unit Citation riband (6)William R. P. Seymour was born in Dublin in 1923 and during the Second World War served in the 5th Battalion, Royal West Kent Regiment. He was wounded in action on 20 October 1944, when the unit were thrown to attack the Gustav Line. He was transferred to the Army Reserve, by this time his family living at Ravenhill Avenue, Belfast.Recalled to the Army with the outbreak of the Korean War, Seymour would served with the 8 Platoon, 'C' Company, 1st Battalion, Gloucestershire Regiment. He shared in the actions at taken Prisoner of War at the Battle of Imjin River, 22-25 April 1951.As part of the United Nations Forces, the 1st Battalion was despatched to Korea in 1950 when the Communist North Koreans invaded South Korea without warning. Later, a Chinese Communist Army came to the assistance of the North Koreans. ln April 1951 the British 29th Infantry Brigade was holding a wide defensive position behind the lmjin River. The Glosters occupied a vital part of this front, astride the main track to Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, which was the traditional invasion route from the north.For days a Chinese attack had been expected and on the evening of 22 April, small parties of the enemy were observed approaching and then crossing the wide river bed. A patrol of 'A' Company at "Gloucester Crossing" did great execution to these parties, but soon the trickle of Chinese became a flood, and by 2330hrs the patrol had used up all its ammunition and was recalled.By 0300hrs on the morning of the 23rd, St George’s Day, 'A' Company’s position on a commanding feature named Castle Hill was under extremely heavy attack, as was 'D' Company on their right, and an hour later 'B' on the right of 'D' was equally engaged. After six hours fighting, much of it hand to hand, 'A' Company was driven back from Castle Hill and a desperate but unsuccessful counter-attack was launched to retake it, during which Lieutenant Curtis lost his life but gained a posthumous Victoria Cross. 'D' Company’s position was now untenable, so it was later withdrawn after further fighting, together with the remnants of 'A'. 'B' Company was later pulled back, and the whole Battalion now took up position on the hills around the village of Solma-Ri.The Chinese did not closely follow up this withdrawal, but meanwhile very large numbers of them had crossed the river and infiltrated past the Glosters. Their attacks on other parts of the front had been equally severe, and now the other United Nations units on their flanks had been forced back so that by mid-day the Glosters were completely separated from the rest of the Division, and indeed almost surrounded.That night 'B' and 'C' companies were heavily attacked, the former being reduced to one officer and 20 other ranks. Early the following morning, Colonel Carne decided to concentrate the remnants of his Battalion on the top of a steep and rugged feature known as Hill 235 on the map, but now as Gloster Hill (presumably one and the same 'Battalion Hill as recalled by Seymour). On the 24th no major attack developed against the Battalion, but two relieving columns of armour and infantry, sent forward by Division, failed to fight their way through. The Glosters were now completely cut off, but although short of ammunition and water they were in good heart and determined to hold out for as long as possible.ln the very early hours of the 25th, the Chinese launched an all-out attack on the hill wave after wave of shooting, screaming men surged forward, regardless of the defenders fire. Chinese trumpets directed them and encouraged them. ln order to confuse them it was decided that one of the British bugles should be blown. The adjutant then ordered Drum Major Buss to sound his bugle and on being asked what calls, replied everything except Retreat. Of all the calls the Long Reveille was the one which made the deepest impression. The battle continued with every weapon involved, and then at 9 o'clock a highly successful air strike was delivered by the US Air Force which for the time being halted the Chinese decisively. lt was during this pause that the Colonel received instructions over the wireless to fight his way out, his job done, and Brigadier Brodie wrote in the Operations log book at Brigade HQ 'Nobody but the Glosters could have done this.'The Battalion split up into groups which tried to work their way back independently, but the United Nations forces were now consolidating after their withdrawal fully seven miles to the rear, and only one party succeeded in reaching them, the rest being killed or captured. Out of 750 men of the Battalion only 150, including the rear echelon, remained on which to rebuild the unit. Lieutenant Colonel Carne, who survived his harsh imprisonment, later received the V.C., and the Battalion was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation to commemorate its magnificent stand. The Queen graciously granted permission for the emblem of the Citation to be worn by all members of the Regiment.Having been captured, Seymour was one of a band of British and American captives who were (probably) forced to sign a Statement of Protest against the bombing og a POW Camp in North Korea, their names being broadcast on Peking Radia at 0900hrs on 9 November. After his return home on his debrief he gave two statements:'My reason for my statement is that Pte. R. T. Othen was in my Squad and was taken to Hospital where he died.''Pte. E. K. Gudge was wounded on C. Coy. 8 Plt. position and when we had to withdraw back to what was so called Batt Hill [Gloster Hill] he was taken to the RAP where he died on the 24.4.51. Who was with him when he died I have forgot. Best we were told that he had died before we moved to the last position.'Sold together with a letter from RHQ and copied research.…

The 1916 D.C.M. group of four awarded to Corporal H. W. Lane, Grenadier Guards, later 4th Battalion, Guards Machine Gun Corps, a former footballer who served in France from the start of the war but was tragically killed in action on 30 March 1918Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (15585 Pte H. W. Lane. 1/G.Gds:); 1914 Star (15585 Pte H. W. Lane. 1/G. Gds:); British War and Victory Medals (15585 A.Cpl. H. W. Lane. G.Gds.), good very fine (4)D.C.M. London Gazette 14 November 1916, the original citation states:'For conspicuous gallantry in action. He led his machine gun team forward with great courage and determination, reaching the second objective. Later, he pushed on to the third objective and accounted for large numbers of the enemy.'Henry William Lane was born at Bristol and enlisted at Cardiff and entered the war in France on 8 November 1914 with the 1st Grenadier Guards. The unit saw fighting at the First Battle of Ypres before being involved in the bloody Battle of Neuve Chappelle in March 1915, a newspaper article written at the time quotes a letter Lane wrote to his family about the engagement stating:'Gloucester Grenadier at Neuve ChapellePte. Harry Lane, 1st Grandier Guards, eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Lane, Elmbridge road, Barnwood, writes under date March 15th as follows: "Well, we have been in a big action and thank God I got through all right. Sorry to say we lost heavily, but we beat the Huns, and got the position we fought for. You will have read about it by this time. The artillery fire was terrible, but the boys stuck it as they always do, and we have the devils more than they bargained for." Pte. Lane is an old footballer, and played for Barnwood and the City A Team.'A letter written by Major Christie R.A. in The Daily Mail adds:'The fighting about Ypres was of the most desperate description. It was there I saw the Guards go into action, and it was there, I may tell you, that these Regiments - the Coldstream Guards, the Grenadier Guards, and the Scots Guards - covered themselves with imperishable glory, and accomplished what I believe is held to be one of the finest military feats of the war.'Lane continued to serve with them until the formation of the Guards Machine Gun Corps on 1 March 1918. Posted to the 4th Battalion, Guards Machine Gun Corps he was stationed with them when the unit was posted to the front to try and stem the German Spring Offensive. Thrown into the Battle of Saint-Quentin on 21 March they were still engaged on 30 March 1918 when Lane was killed in action. He is buried at Bucquoy Road Cemetery, Ficheux.Letter to his mother from a Lieutenant Commanding a gun team in his Company states:'I hope you will accept my heartfelt sympathy in the loss of your husband, Corporal Lane, who was in Charge of one of my guns teams when he was hit with some others in a deep dugout. He was killed instantaneously with five others by a fearfully unlucky shell which came straight down the mouth of the dugout.I am not saying it for the sake of talking but your husband was held in the highest esteem in this Company and for myself I was proud of having such a good soldier with me.'Sold together with original letters and cards, newspaper cuttings, two photographs and a Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery Register with Corporal Lane's details.…

The Great War D.S.O., M.C. group of nine awarded to Hon. Brigadier T. I. Dun, Royal Army Medical Corps, who was wounded during the course of protracted service in France and Flanders, thrice 'mentioned' and served with armoured cars between the wars, authoring a book on his experienceDistinguished Service Order, G.V.R., silver-gilt and enamel; Military Cross, G.V.R.; The Most Venerable Order of St. John, Officer's breast Badge, silver and enamel; 1914-15 Star (Capt. T. I. Dun, R.A.M.C.); British War and Victory Medals (Major T. I. Dun); Defence and War Medals 1939-45; Coronation 1953, mounted as worn, enamel work slightly chipped, very fine and better (9)Provenance:Spink Numismatic Circular, May 1987.D.S.O. London Gazette 1 January 1919.M.C. London Gazette 1 January 1917.Thomas Ingram Dun was born at Kelvin, Glasgow on 1 May 1892 and studied medicine at Glasgow University and Anderson Medical School.Qualifying on the eve of the Great War, he was appointed Lieutenant in the Royal Army Medical Corps in September 1914 and went on to witness active service in France and Flanders from May 1915 to November 1918, being wounded and twice decorated. He was also advanced to the acting rank of Major and thrice mentioned in despatches (London Gazettes 15 June 1916, 25 May 1918 and 30 December 1918, refer).Remaining in the Regular Army between the wars, Dun specialised in obstetrics and served in India (1919-24) and Egypt (1929-35) in addition to appointments in the UK. It appears he was at one time attached to an armoured unit during his time in Egypt, or certainly one 'Thomas Ingram Dun' is the credited author of From Cairo to Siwa: Across the Libyan Desert with Armoured Cars, which was first published in Cairo in 1933.A Lieutenant-Colonel on the staff of the Louise Margaret Hospital in Chatham on the eve of hostilities, Dun was quickly embarked for India where he served as C.O. of the Combined Military Hospital in Quetta (1940-42), and as C.O. of the 35th (1942-43) and 126th (1943-45) General Hospitals. He held the acting ranks of Brigadier and Major-General in the same period, the latter while acting as Deputy Director of Medical Service in India's Eastern Command.Post-war, Dun served as Assistant Director of Medical Services, Salisbury Plain (1946-48) and as Officer in Charge of Medical Services for the A.T.S. and W.R.A.C. (1948-53). Appointed an Officer of the Order of St. John in the summer of 1952, his final post was as President of the Standing Medical Board at Aldershot, and he was placed on the Retired List in the honorary rank of Brigadier in May 1955. He died in September 1975.…

The 1918 D.S.O. group of seven awarded to Lieutenant-Colonel R. S. Hunt, 1st Dragoon Guards, late 3rd Hussars, who was twice wounded in action and twice 'mentioned' during the Great WarDistinguished Service Order, G.V.R; Queen's South Africa 1899-1902, 3 clasps, Orange Free State, Transvaal, South Africa 1902 (Capt: R. S. Hunt, 3/Hrs:); 1914 Star, with clasp (Major R. S. Hunt. 1/D.Gds.); British War and Victory Medals (Lt. Col. R. S. Hunt.); General Service Medal 1918-62, 1 clasp, Iraq (Major R. S. Hunt.); Delhi Durbar 1911, unnamed as issued, light contact marks, very fine overall (7)D.S.O. London Gazette 1 January 1918.Ronald Seager Hunt was born on 24 February 1874, the son of Walter and Alice Hunt of Hart Hill, St. Johns, Woking, where his father worked as a barrister. Educated at Haileybury College (1888-1892), he was commissioned 2nd Lieutenant on 25 November 1893 with the 3rd Battalion Norfolk Regiment. Transferring from the Militia to the 3rd Hussars on 15 May 1897 with the same rank he was advanced Lieutenant on 13 September 1898.Prior to his service in the Boer War, Hunt was advanced Captain on 26 April 1901 and arrived in South Africa in January 1902. There he was present for operations in the Transvaal and Orange River Colony until 31 May 1902. Whilst there the Regiment saw notable action in an engagement on the Cornelius River in February 1902.Transferring to the 1st Dragoon Guards, Hunt was promoted Major with them on 14 July 1910. The next year he appeared upon the roll of the Delhi Durbar 1911 medal as one of three Majors with the unit.Entering the war in France on 5 November 1914 he appears to have served initially with his own unit however was soon posted to command several different Infantry Regiments, including at some stage the 4th Battalion, Seaforth Highlanders. Hunt later commanded the 8th Battalion, Royal Lancaster Regiment from 27 October 1916, being stationed with them on 6 February 1917 when he was wounded for the first time.Wounded in action again during the Battle of Arras on 11 April 1917, he received his first 'mention' at the end of that year (London Gazette 11 December 1917). Unfortunately his age caught up with him and Hunt was posted to command the 87th Battalion, Training Reserve on 10 May 1918, receiving his second mention ten days later, likely for his final actions with the Lancaster Regiment (London Gazette 20 May 1918).Posted to command 1st County of London Yeomanry on 13 September 1919 he served for two more years but eventually retired on 17 September 1921 to Walcott-on-Sea, Norfolk. Hunt died on 1 April 1942.…

The Zulu War Medal awarded to Private H. Muldowney, Army Hospital Corps, who is understood to have been wounded in action at the Battle of Bronkhorstspruit in December 1881, during the First Boer WarSouth Africa 1877-79, 1 clasp, 1879 (3891. Pte. H. Muldowney. A.H.C.), contact marks overall, nearly very fineHarry Muldowney was born St Faith, Winchester in 1860 and enlisted in the Army Hospital Corps in 1878. Having served in South Africa, he saw further active service in the Egypt & Sudan 1882-89 campaign.… SALE 25001 NOTICE:Gold match safe weighs 34g. Naming of the Aero Club of America Medal now added to the Lot.

A successful Escaper's campaign group of four Signaller N. F. Gresty, Royal Corps of Signals, whose regiment fought to the last round during operations on the Gazala Line and found himself imprisoned in Italy, managing to escape to Switzerland in October 19431939-45 Star; Africa Star; War Medal 1939-45; Efficiency Medal, Territorial, G.VI.R. (2576624 Pte. N. F. Gresty. R.A.P.C.), good very fine (4)Norma Frederick Gresty was serving with the Royal Corps of Signals, attached to Field Regiment which he does not name on his escapees questionnaire. Taken prisoner of war on 15 December 1941 in North Africa he states of his capture:'The Field Reg. to which I was attached fought for 4 days against the Germans until running out of ammunition. We were then surrounded and taken prisoner.'Held initially at Benghazi he was sent to Tripoli on 24 December and from thence to Camp 66 in Italy. Moving on to Camp 59 on 29 January 1942 Gresty was to spend much of the rest of the war there only being moved again to Camp 146 in May 1943 to undertake farm work. His questionnaire again goes into detail on the manner of his escape stating:'After the Armistice we were released by the Italians and hid around the farm on which we had worked, for 3 weeks we were fed by the people of Vairano. Early in October we met a civilian who offered to take us to Switzerland.'He goes on to outline the escape itself stating:'The organisation guide met us at Vairano and we walked to Vidigolfo when we were picked up by a Fiat van and taken to Milan. At 1700 hours we left Milan by train for Como where we hid in the house of a man from the Argentine, who was Managing Director of Kodaks in Italy. We stayed the night here and were then guided over the mountains to the Swiss Frontier at Chiasso. The Journey was accomplished in 2 days.'Touchingly Gresty was careful to name the four Italian civilians who did the most to feed and house him during his escape although sadly he was not able to provide surnames for them. Upon his return a newspaper article was written describing his journey, it states:'Signalman Norman F. Grestsy of Horton Road, Rusholme, has escaped from the Italian prison camp where he was interned and reached Switzerland. He is 22 and had been a prisoner for nearly three years.'Sold together with copied research and an original postcard of 'Modder' the 3rd Battalion, Grenadiers Pet Dog in 1900.…

The 2nd Battalion, 4th 'King's Own Royal' RegimentThe unit received orders at the North Camp, Aldershot, in the first week of December 1878 to proceed to Natal on active service. Embarked in the transports Dunrobin Castle and Teuton on 10 and 13 December respectively, the Battalion arrived at Cape Town in early January 1879. United once again after a long voyage, the men marched to Pietermaritzburg, and from there, upon receipt of the news of the disaster at Isandhlwana, on to Helpmakaar.The companies of the Battalion were subsequently distributed in reserve over a wide area of country, including the Utrecht district, Potgreter's Farm, Luneberg, Balte's Spruit and Conference Hill. Following the Battle of Ulundi, the men were relieved by those of the 24th Regiment, and proceeded to the Transvaal; on 8 September, Colonel Bray, with three companies of the regiment, assisted by the Frontier Light Horse and a detachment of Engineers, blew up the caves known as Umbellini's, in the neighbourhood of the Intombi River. Manyanyoba, the independent chief who had long given great trouble, then surrendered.On 8 February 1880, the Battalion embarked for Bombay, leaving two companies behind to assist with the defence of the frontier.999 Medals were issued to 2/4th Regiment, 971 of them with the '1879' clasp.South Africa 1877-79, 1 clasp, 1879 (421. Pte. D. Sullivan. 2/4th. Foot), very fineDaniel Sullivan was born at Tosist, Kinmaine, County Kerry in 1855 and enlisted at Cork in October 1874. Having served in South Africa, he transferred to the Army Reserve at Lancaster in October 1880. Sullivan re-enlisted in the Royal Artillery at Portsmouth in December 1880 and served in India from November 1882-March 1889 and would see further active service in the Third Burmese War (Medal & clasp). He was released for the second time in April 1889; sold together with copied research.…

United Arab Emirates, Lebanon Peace Keeping Force Medal 1976-78; Liberation of Kuwait 1991 Medal; Somalia Peace Keeping Force 1993 Medal, all by Spink & Son, each mounted on pin for wear, very fine and better (3)The Lebanon Peace Keeping Force Medal 1976-78 was awarded to all ranks who were part of the U.A.E. force in the Bekka Valley in Lebanon in 1976-78. The Medal features the emblem of the U.A.E. military forces accompanied by an enamel representation of the Lebanese flag and the U.A.E. flag, surrounded by laurel leaves. The Liberation of Kuwait Medal was bestowed upon all ranks of the Federal Armed Forces who were with the Allied Forces in Kuwait's liberation in 1991. U.A.E. forces suffered casualties during the conflict which amounted to ten killed and fifteen wounded. The Medal features the geographic outline of the Gulf Cooperation countries and the U.A.E. military emblem.All ranks who were a part of the U.A.E. force in Mogadishu, Somalia from 1993 to 1994 alongside the U.N.'s multinational force for Operation Restore Hope were awarded the Somalia Peace Keeping Force 1993 Medal. The obverse design sees an enamel flag of Somalia alongside an enamel U.A.E. flag, with each bordered by laurel leaves and the emblem of the U.A.E. military forces at the upper centre.…

The fascinating Victorian inkwell with a V.C. connection, fashioned from a Crimean cannonball and commissioned by Major-General Viscount R. Frankfort De Montmorency, who was recommended for the Victoria Cross at the Redan Redoubt, and whose son won the award with the 21st Lancers at OmdurmanRound Shot, 2.7 inches diameter, hollowed out, with an ornate silver cap atop, hallmarks for London 1857, the shot set on the obverse with a Crimea Medal and on the reverse with a plate engraved with the cypher of Viscount Frankfort De Montmorency, three grape-shot 'legs' 0.9 inches diameter affixed beneath, with - but not affixed to - its original wooden stand, somewhat dented in places but overall very fineRaymond Harvey de Montmorency, 3rd Viscount Frankfort de Montmorency, was born at Theydon Bower, Essex on 21 September 1835; the only son of Viscount Lodge Raymond de Montmorency, 2nd Viscount Frankfort de Montmorency and Georgina Frederica de Montmorency, the daughter of Peter Fitzgibbon Henchy Q.C. of Dublin. The young De Montmorency was educated at Eton before entering the Royal Military College at Sandhurst, being commissioned Ensign with the 33rd (Duke of Wellington's) Regiment of Foot on 18 August 1854. Further promoted Lieutenant on 12 January 1855 he was serving in that rank on the outbreak of the Crimean War. De Montmorency entered the war in the trenches of Sevastopol and was present for the storming of the Great Redan on 8 September 1855 (Medal and clasp). His gallantry during the attack, which cost the British dearly, he was recommended for the Victoria Cross - although the recommendation was not successful. Instead, his reward was an independent command and he was sent to India for the suppression of the Indian Mutiny and placed in command of a detachment in Central India (Medal and clasp).Promoted Captain on 29 March 1861, he exchanged into the 32nd Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry and served as Aide-de-Camp to Major-General Edward Brooke from 6 December 1861 until 31 December 1864. During this time Brooke was commanding troops in the Windward and Leeward Islands. Following this De Montmorency moved on to become Aide-de-Camp to Lieutenant General (later Field Marshal) Sir John Michel commanding the British Forces in North America during the 1866 Fenian Raids (Medal and clasp). Doubtless the logistical difficulties of organising a defence against the raids kept him busy, however he did find time to get married on 25 April 1866 to General Michel's eldest daughter Rachel in Montreal.De Montmorency also found the opportunity to travel and was in Abyssinia at the time of Napier's expedition; he volunteered privately to take part and was with the Army up to the gates of Magdala (Medal). Promoted Major on 28 September 1869 and further advanced Lieutenant-Colonel on 14 June 1876, he served with the British Forces in Egypt and the Sudan from 1886-7. De Montmorency was given the local rank of Major-General in 1887 and commanded the troops at Alexandria before directing a British field column during operations on the Nile for which he received a 'mention'. Promoted Major-General in the British Army on 30 November 1889, he succeeded to the peerage on 25 December of that year upon the death of his father.Posted to India, the now-Viscount Frankfort de Montmorency was given command of a first-class district in Bengal (1890-1895) and later Dublin District from 1895-1897, retiring on 21 September 1897. The next year, his son Lieutenant Raymond de Montmorency, 21st Lancers, went on to serve at the Battle of Omdurman on 2 September 1898. During the fighting he was awarded the Victoria Cross for his bravery in attempting to rescue Lieutenant Grenfell who had been unhorsed. Driving away the Dervishes around him he found the Lieutenant already dead, rescuing the body and placing it upon a horse; with the assistance of two other men he cut his way free. Promoted Captain on 2 August 1899, the young De Montmorency raised his own company - Montmorency's Scouts - for the Boer War but was killed in action at the Battle of Stormberg. His father died on 7 May 1902 of apoplexy at Bury Street, London and was buried at Dewlish, Dorsetshire. The titles passed to his younger son Willoughby John Horace de Montmorency; sold together with copied research including a biography of the 3rd Viscount de Montmorency and his entry in the Dictionary of National Biography, 2nd Supplement, Volume I.…

The superb posthumous 'Amiens 1918' M.M. awarded to Corporal W. H. Bowen, 19th Battalion, Australian Infantry, who saw service at Gallipoli, was four times wounded, and finally killed in action at the time of earning his decorationMilitary Medal, G.V.R. (1149 Cpl H. W.Bowen. 19/Aust.Inf.), very fineHerbert William Bowen was born in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia in 1888 and enlisted on 10 March 1915 with the Australian Imperial Force. Posted to the 19th Battalion Bowen embarked with them on 25 June 1915 for Gallipoli where they formed part of the first wave of reinforcements after the initial landings. The unit landed on 21 August and were immediately thrown into the Battle of Hill 60, Bowen appears to have passed through this unscathed however he was wounded on 1 September 1915. A telegraph sent to his wife confirming this notes that it was not reported to be a serious wound.Joining the evacuation of the Peninsula the Battalion was posted to the B.E.F. in France on 18 March 1916. They were soon in action during the Battle of the Somme at the bloodily contested front of Pozières, here the Australian 1st Division suffered over 5,000 casualties before eventually being relieved. Bowen was wounded here suffering multiple gunshot wounds on 28 July and being treated at the 44th Casualty Clearing Station before hospitalization.Rejoining his unit on 9 April 1917 after an extended rehabilitation in England he served without incident for the rest of the year during which time the Battalion saw action at Bullecourt and Passchendaele. In the effort to resist the German Spring Offensive however he was again on the frontline and was gassed on 28 May 1918, necessitating another recovery process.Finally returning to his unit on 13 July 1918 Bowen joined the action on 11 August 1918 during the Battle of Amiens. After his act of gallantry he was again wounded in action, the witness statement of Private H. S. Doohan, quoted in his service papers gives further details, stating:'I saw Cpl. Bowen. D. Company. after he was wounded (think arm) at Framerville about 5 or 6 a.m. I was a runner and was going up to the position when I saw him. He called out as he passed me on his way back to R.A.P. He was a walking case. I did not see anything more of him. He had to go through the orchard to get to the Aid post and the shelling was very heavy. Bowen was big, broad, fair, reddish complexion, about 33 years.'Bowen is commemorated upon the Villers-Bretonneux Memorial; sold together with copied research.…

A rare post-war K.P.M. for Gallantry awarded to Constable 1st Class E. B. O'Regan, New South Wales Police Force, who was shot while confronting armed robbersKing's Police and Fire Services Medal, for Gallantry, G.VI.R., 1st issue (Const. 1/Cl. Edward B. O'Regan, N.S.W. Police Force), in its Royal Mint case of issue, official naming on pre-prepared ground, extremely fineK.P.M. London Gazette 29 August 1947.Edward Bernard O'Regan was born on 15 August 1916 and joined the New South Walers Police Force as a Constable in July 1939. A native of Lithgow in N.S.W., he was described on his enlistment papers as standing at 6.1 feet and weighing nearly 12 stone.By the time of his K.P.M.-winning exploits in May 1946, he was still serving as a Constable, but he was about to receive accelerated promotion to Constable 1st Class. And of those gallant deeds, his service record states:'Specially commended for the very fine policeman ship and conspicuous bravery displayed when, in company with Constable A. E. Gilchrist, the arrest was affected of an armed bandit, M. J. Delaney, at Harris Park on 23 May 1946, and also in connection with the attempted apprehension of two offenders who were disturbed when about to break into the Cabramatta Post Office at 2 a.m. on 30 May 1946. Promoted to Constable 1st Class as on, from 23 May 1946, and submission made for the award of the King's Police and Fire Services Medal 'for Gallantry' in accordance with the recommendation of the appraisement committee.'Of the incident at Cabramatta - and under the headline 'Two More Police Shot; Big Manhunt' - a local newspaper takes up the story:'The men shot were detectives Regan and Gilchrist. They disturbed the men at the back of Cabramatta Post Office. The men fired shots and wounded both detectives. The wounds were not serious.The men ran across to a black sedan car, in which they drove off at high speed towards Fairfield. All police cars in the metropolitan area were posted to a search for the sedan. Detectives were called from their beds in all parts of the metropolitan area.Detectives Regan and Gilchrist, though wounded, joined in the hunt. Later, however, both detectives had to abandon the hunt and seek treatment at Parramatta Hospital. Regan was shot in the thigh, but the nature of Gilchrist's injuries were not known at 3 a.m. today.The sedan in which the men made their getaway was stolen in Newtown earlier in the night.One of the men was wearing a blue suit. A pocket was torn from his coat during a struggle with the detectives.Three detectives have been shot in two days. On Tuesday night Detective Sergeant Wilson was shot while in plain clothes room of Darlinghurst Police Station.'O'Regan, who was duly recommended for the K.P.M. for Gallantry, resigned from the N.S.W. Police Force in August 1947. He died at Parramatta in July 1967; sold with copied service record and newspaper reports.…

A scarce Boer War Militia Officer's D.S.O. group of four awarded to Major M. A. Foster, 4th Battalion, Somerset Light Infantry, who was further twice 'mentioned'Distinguished Service Order, V.R., silver-gilt and enamel, with integral top riband bar; Jubilee 1897, silver, unnamed as issued; Queen's South Africa 1899-1902, 1 clasp, Cape Colony (Capt. & Adjt. M. A. Foster, D.S.O., Som. L.I.), unit officially corrected to include post-nominals; King's South Africa 1901-02, 2 clasps, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 (Maj. & Adjt. M. A. Foster. D.S.O., Som. L.I.), the last three mounted as worn in this order, minor enamel damage to D.S.O. and contact wear overall, very fine (4)Provenance:Noonans, June 2012.Spink, July 2018; April 2023.D.S.O. London Gazette 27 September 1901.M.I.D. London Gazette 10 September 1901, 29 July 1902.Montagu Amos Foster was born on 19 March 1861, the son of William Foster of Wilbury Road, Brighton, Sussex. Foster was privately educated and became a notable linguist over the course of his life. Commissioned Second Lieutenant in the Second East Norfolk (Militia) on 10 December 1879, he was gazetted to a regular commission with the Somerset Light Infantry on 28 January 1882, with the rank of Lieutenant. Promoted Captain in September 1887, he served as an Adjutant in the Militia from May 1899 until February 1904.Foster also returned to the Militia, serving as Captain and Adjutant with the 4th Battalion, Somerset Light Infantry. It was with this role that he appears upon the roll for the Jubilee Medal. Later entering the Boer War, with the Battalion sailing on the Kildonan Castle in Spring 1900, upon arrival they were split up with the majority of the unit divided along the lines of communication between East London and Queenstown, Cape Colony, while some officers were detached to the Staff. Foster's role would likely have been with one of the mobile columns that operated in the region hunting down the Boer Commandos - a role for which he was further 'mentioned' twice on 10 September 1901 and 29 July 1902.Foster certainly came home to receive his D.S.O. in an investiture on 29 October 1901, however, he returned to South Africa, being promoted Major in April 1902 and is listed as stationed there until 13 May. Seeing further service in the East Indies between 1902 and April 1904, Foster returned to Britain on 16 April and served at home until March 1909 when he was placed upon the retired list. Foster had married Ida Frances, the daughter of Brigadier-General W. G. Thompson, C.M.G., D.S.O. and had two children with her, Mary and Cecil William Foster; sold together with copied research comprising a C.D. containing research and photographs, a copied caricature and career summery as well as a Record of Service, medal rolls and extracts from the London Gazette and West Somerset Free Press.…

A fine Second World War Coastal Command D.F.C., D-Day airborne operations A.F.C. group of nine awarded to Wing Commander C. J. Mackenzie, Royal Air Force, late Auxiliary Air ForceHaving been credited with the destruction of a U-Boat in the Western Approaches piloting a Hudson of No. 500 (County of Kent) Squadron in April 1942, he transferred to glider towing duties in Dakotas of No. 233 Squadron, in which he participated in Operations 'Tonga' & 'Market Garden'Distinguished Flying Cross, G.VI.R., the reverse officially dated '1942'; Air Force Cross, G.VI.R., the reverse officially dated '1944'; 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star, clasp, France and Germany; Burma Star; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45; General Service 1918-62, 1 clasp, S.E. Asia 1945-46 (Act. Sqn. Ldr. C. J. Mackenzie, R.A.F.); Coronation 1953, mounted as worn, together with embroidered R.A.F. uniform 'Wings', very fine or better (9)D.F.C. London Gazette 28 July 1942, the original recommendation states:'Flying Officer Mackenzie has been employed in an operational squadron since the outbreak of war and has completed over 400 hours operational flying in Anson, Blenheim, and Hudson aircraft, mainly on patrols to the enemy coast. He has at all times shown courage, determination, and devotion to duty of the highest order in carrying out any task allotted to him.On the 28 April 1942, he was captain and pilot of Hudson aircraft K/500 carrying out an A./S. patrol at 4,400 feet in the Western Approaches, when he sighted a U-boat on the surface eight miles away. He made full use of all available cloud cover and sun, and made a dive-bombing attack, pulling out at 60 to 70 feet and releasing four depth charges across the forward part of the still surfaced U-boat. The attack was almost certainly a successful one, the second charge exploding within 10 feet of the hull. The depth-charge attack was followed by a front and rear gun attack, the U-boat then disappearing from sight stern first, leaving a very large patch of frothy brown disturbed water behind.Flight Lieutenant Mackenzie exploited his sighting to the maximum and made a complete surprise attack. An award to this officer is recommended in the strongest terms, both for general good work since the outbreak of war and for this excellent attack on an enemy undersea raider.'A.F.C. London Gazette 1 September 1944, the original recommendation states:'Acting Squadron Leader Mackenzie has displayed exemplary zeal and devotion to duty as a flight commander. His untiring efforts, initiative and exceptional ability have been an inspiration to all with whom he has come into contact, and enabled the flight to reach the high standard of efficiency which led to the carrying out of its airborne operations on D-Day with unqualified success.'Charles John Mackenzie, born in India on 25 May 1915, was a pre-war member of the Auxiliary Air Force who was called up in August 1939 when he joined No. 500 (County of Kent) Squadron at R.A.F. Detling in the acting rank of Pilot Officer. Initially equipped with Ansons, the squadron converted to Blenheims in April 1941, and thence to Hudsons in November 1941.In March 1942, the squadron moved to R.A.F. Stornoway for patrols over the Atlantic and the approaches to the Clyde and the Irish Sea. On 28 April, whilst the captain and pilot of a Hudson, Mackenzie convincingly attacked an enemy U-boat in the Western Approaches, approximately 350 miles due west of the Outer Hebrides, an act of skill and gallantry which resulted in the award of his Distinguished Flying Cross.Operation 'Tonga'Advanced to Squadron Leader, Mackenzie next transferred to Transport Command and was posted to No. 233 Squadron at R.A.F. Blakehill Farm. And it was from here that he was charged with glider-towing operations for Operation 'Tonga' between 5-7 June 1944, delivering paratroopers and equipment for the 6th Airborne Division. According to the squadron's Operation Record Book (O.R.B.), it was 'given the envious choice of Drop Zone 'K' - the furthest inland.'Taking off at 23:14 hours on 5 June 1944, the squadron successfully dropped 407 paratroopers complete with kit bags and containers in an area north-west of Toufreville. The O.R.B. noted much light flak being encountered along the French coast and two Dakotas failed to return to base. Mackenzie's aircraft was among those damaged the following night, when he returned to Normandy for Operation 'Rob Roy One'. But the squadron's good work had not been in vain, for on the morning of 7 June it received the following message from Air Chief Marshal Sir Trafford Leigh Mallory:'Will you please convey my heartiest congratulations to 46 Group on their magnificent performance in carrying over the 6th Airborne Division in the initial operation. The fact that so successful and difficult an operation has been carried out with such complete success in so short a time after the formation of the squadrons reflects highest credit on all concerned.'For his services as a flight commander in the run-up to the Normandy Landings, and for his work on D-Day itself, Mackenzie was recommended for and received the A.F.C.Operation 'Market Garden'The squadron's next mission was Operation 'Market Garden', when in order to facilitate the Second Army's advance through Holland, the 1st Airborne Division was to be landed at several landing zones in the vicinity of Arnhem to secure bridges over the River Rhine. On 17 September, with Mackenzie piloting one of 22 squadron Dakotas, No. 233 successfully released gliders that contained 309 troops, 18 handcarts, 15 motor cycles, 10 Jeeps, 11 trailers, 5 wireless set, 11 cycles, and 1 6-pounder anti-tank gun, without any loss. On the second day they repeated this feat, with 17 aircraft from the squadron towing gliders containing 84 troops, 15 Jeeps, 7 trailers, 8 6-pounder anti-tank guns, and 3 machine-guns, but the re-supply missions were less fortunate, and the squadron lost 5 aircraft over the next three days, losses recalled by the posthumous award of the V.C. to David Lord, another Dakota pilot.The R.A.F. Memorial Flight's C-47 Dakota is currently painted up to represent a No. 233 Squadron aircraft, as flown by the likes of Charles Mackenzie over Arnhem.With the war in Europe over, Mackenzie remained in the Royal Air Force, going out to South-East Asia later in the year. He was promoted Wing Commander in July 1954 and, having settled in Eastbourne on his retirement, died in February 1970.Sold with his original 'Notice of Calling Out', dated 23 August 1939, together with his original commission warrant for the rank of Pilot Officer, dated 17 May 1940, and several photographs.For his corresponding dress miniatures please see lot: 447.…

Military General Service 1793-1814, 3 clasps, Vittoria, Orthes, Toulouse (W. Cook, 20th Foot.), traces of lacquer, very fine, mounted as wornProvenance:Glendining's, September 1987.William Cook was born at Totham, Essex circa 1785 and was a labourer also serving in the West Essex Militia upon his enlisting in the 20th (East Devonshire) Regiment of Foot (Lancashire Fusiliers) at Haslar under a bounty of £5-5-3; a vast sum in that period. At that time he was described as having dark eyes, dark hair and a 'brown' complexion, perhaps being of West Indian heritage whose parents had made it to England.Cook was wounded by gunshot at Orthes. A fine account is offered by Colonel John Hogge, K.H., who commanded the Light Company:'I embrace the first moment I had to spare since the battle of the 27th to let you know I have again escaped one of the most murderous battles that ever I believe the old 20th witnessed. I had three most wonderful escapes, three balls struck me, one entering the glass you bought me in London, when in the act of looking at the troops opposed to us, the ball still remains in but has entirely destroyed the glass. Another entered my jacket near the right breast, was turned by striking a button, passed along my waistcoat, came out and badly wounded a man of my company. A grape shot struck the top of my shoulder, carried away the bugle and most of my right wing but did no other injury except a slight bruise. You will say my dear brother I am a fortunate fellow, I think to myself, for I believe no man ever had narrower escapes, the jacket and spyglass I shall preserve and one day I hope to show you them. I shall now begin to relate what passed on that eventful day confining myself to that part of the tragedy our Brigade acted.The Light Companies of the 23rd, 7th, 20th, and a company of Rifles were in advance about 2 miles, when we came in contact with the advance post of the enemy, we immediately engaged them and drove them about a mile into a village where they had posted, unbeknown to us, a number of men in every part. We attacked it three times but did not succeed, soon after two companies of the 7th reinforced us and we quickly drove them out, took possession and retained it till the Brigade came up, we lost in this affair two Captains and about 60 men out of the light companies of the Brigade, eleven of my company were killed and wounded. It was here I had two escapes. We were then ordered to join our Regts. I found mine just in rear of the village.Soon after an order came to us to advance and support our Portuguese Brigade, as they had just given way about half a mile in front of us. The great bone of contention was a small town [St Böes] and a range of hills just in the van of it, upon which a strong column of French were posted with 6 pieces of Artillery. The main road ran directly through the town, and the heights and all the Artillery commanded it, we fixed bayonets and there the bloody scene commenced. I passed the Portuguese and actually carried the town under a most dreadful fire of grape shot and musquetry, that ever a regiment was exposed to, out of 291, all we had, 126 men and nine officers were killed and wounded. We had two other officers wounded but they were not returned so, being slightly hit. The enemy attempted again to take it from us, they got into the town but we managed to drive them out again. They carried away about 25 of our men and Captain Tovey, they surrounded them. The 7th Division soon came up and the French retreated in all directions. We followed till darkness put an end to the contest.Genl. Moss was wounded but not badly before we took the town. Major Bent who nobly commanded us had first his horse shot and was immediately afterwards killed himself. Three balls entered him. One Captain killed and three badly wounded. Capt Russell commands what few of us are left, he certainly gets the Brevet. Col Ellis, who commands the Brigade, rode into the town after we had taken it and declared that there never was a more gallant thing done by any Regt, and his Lordship sent in soon after to know what Regt it was that had taken the town. It is certain that they had in it double our numbers, posted so as to rake every part of the road leading through the town. Had we not succeeded we should have been cut to atoms, the only chance we had was to charge through it instantly, and after driving them out get under cover of the houses. It was impossible for our men to have stood it for five minutes longer, the grape from the Artillery on the hills cut us down by the dozens at a time. I got off most fortunately with the loss only of a strap. We mustered on parade next day only 144 men and nine officers. Soult may now say he annihilated us.’Cook was in fair shape to share in the action at Toulouse and was discharged on 31 January 1816. …

A post-war K.P.M. awarded to Superintendent 1st Class and Deputy Commissioner W. R. Lawrence, New South Wales Police Force and afterwards a Member of the N.S.W. Legislative Assembly, who was further awarded the M.B.E. in 1966King's Police and Fire Service Medal, for Distinguished Service, G.VI.R., 2nd issue (Walter L. Lawrence, Supt. Cl. 3, N.S.W. Police), note second initial, official naming on pre-prepared ground; good very fine[M.B.E.] London Gazette 1 January 1966.'For public and social welfare services in the state of New South Wales.'K.P.M. London Gazette 2 January 1950.Walter Richard Lawrence was born at Lawson's Creek, Mudgee, New South Wales on 3 January 1895. Educated at country public schools, he originally found employment as a wool classer and station manager but, in January 1922, he elected to join the New South Wales Police Force.Appointed to the Criminal Investigation Department, he was advanced to Detective Sergeant (D.S.) 3rd Class in January 1933, D.S. 2nd Class in June 1927 and D.S. 1st Class in June 1939, followed by his promotion to Inspector in November 1942. Having latterly served in the Traffic Department, Lawrence was awarded the K.P.M. and promoted to Superintendent 1st Class in October 1951.Having then retired in January 1955, he added the M.B.E. to his accolades for his good deeds and public service to the state of New South Wales, where he was a Member of the Legislative Assembly 1956-66 and an Alderman for Drummoyne. He died in Sydney in March 1966; sold with copied service record, which confirms his entitlement to the Coronation Medal.…

'After receiving Surrender Order from Southern Area Command via Major J. E. Eliot R.A., I took a small craft with a motor and approx. 18 Officers & men of R.A., R.E., A.C.S., Bombay Sappers & Miners, from Tebay Island-Singapore and with some hazards reached the Indragivi [SIC] river Sumatra on the evening of the 18-2-1942. The names of those on board whom I can remember are shown below…Sgt. A. E. Armstrong [SIC] No 1059778.'(The Testimony of Captain James Gordon, 9th Coast Regiment, Royal Artillery on his dramatic escape from the Fall of Singapore)The Evaders group of five awarded to Warrant Officer Class II J. E. Armstrong, 9th Coast Regiment, Royal Artillery, whose unit went 'in the bag' during the Fall of Singapore, Armstrong however escaped capture and managed to join a small group of survivors in a remarkable journey to safety in India via Sumatra1939-45 Star; Burma Star; War Medal 1939-45; Army L.S. & G.C., Regular Army, G.VI.R. (1059778 Bmbr. J. E. Armstrong. R.A.); Meritorious Service Medal, G.VI.R. (1059778 W.O. Cl. 2. J. E. Armstrong. R.E.M.E.), minor pitting, very fine (5)John Ernest Armstrong was born at Wallsend in 1910 and enlisted on 22 December 1924. Posted to the 9th Coast Regiment, Royal Artillery at Singapore in February 1942 where they manned the guns of Changi Command, being responsible for No 7, 22 and 32 Batteries. When the city came under attack by the Japanese and it's fall became inevitable, their commanding officer, Lieutenant-Colonel Heath ordered the guns destroyed. The men on the Island were ordered to act as infantry however this did not account for the men who had left Singapore Island.Amongst these was Armstrong who is listed upon the Liberation Questionnaire of Captain James Gordon, 9th Coast Regiment. On his Questionnaire he noted the names of several men whom he had organised when the surrender order came through. Requisitioning a small boat he led them to Sumatra, Gordon lists those whose names he remembered aboard the boat which includes Armstrong.Very few managed to escape the Fall of Singapore and fewer still made it back to Allied lines, the Regimental History notes that Armstrong and 4 other Senior N.C.O.Ss from 22 (Sphinx) Battery managed to get away. Two of these were later 'mentioned' having been caught by the Japanese and killed in a massacre on 21 February.Armstrong however was not amongst them having travelled to Padang, Western Sumatra. From there he made it back to India, transferring to the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers on 22 March 1945. He was awarded his Meritorious Service Medal with them in 1950; sold together with copied research.…

A Second World War D.F.M. awarded to Flight Lieutenant W. Woodhouse, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, who was decorated for his gallantry as a Navigator in No. 57 Squadron, his operational tour including the famous daylight raid on Le Creusot in October 1942 and four trips to the 'Big City'Distinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. (1166133 F./Sgt. W. Woodhouse, R.A.F.), good very fineD.F.M. London Gazette 11 June 1943.Wilfred Woodhouse was educated at Raddlebarn School, Maple College and Birmingham University, and attended a course at Ruskin College of Art in 1937-38. Having also attended several civil defence courses in the interim, he joined the Royal Air Force in June 1940 and was trained as a navigator.He subsequently joined No. 57 Squadron at R.A.F. Scampton as a Flight Sergeant in August 1942 and flew his first sortie - against Cologne - on the night of 15-16 October 1942. Next up was Operation 'Robertson', the daylight raid against Le Creusot on the 17th, when 94 Lancasters from No. 5 Group were assigned to attack the Schneider works, the whole under Wing Commander L. C. Slee, the C.O. of No. 49 Squadron.Woodhouse flew in one of several 57 Squadron aircraft allocated to the force, he and his crew having undertaken special low-level flying exercises over Lincolnshire in the interim. Despite the obvious risks, the raid turned out to be a great success, just one Lancaster becoming a cropper after hitting a roof top. Others suffered damage from bird strikes, as the force raced over 300 miles of French countryside at tree-top height, but all returned home, having delivered their attack in just seven minutes. Even the likes of Guy Gibson, who led six aircraft against the nearby transformer station at Montchanin, appeared to be satisfied with the results.'Bomber' Harris was also impressed and ordered another daylight raid, this time against Milan, in which Woodhouse participated on the 24th. In fact, he was to make three further trips to Italy over the next month or so, namely two sorties to Turin and another to Genoa. These besides sorties to Duisburg, Stuttgart and Weismar. And in mid-January 1943, he flew his first sortie to the 'Big City', one of four such trips undertaken by him at the height of Bomber Command's battle of Berlin.Two further trips to Cologne - and other heavily defended targets such as Essen, Hamburg and Munich - made up the remainder of his operational tour and he was recommended for his D.F.M. in April 1943. Subsequently commissioned, he was demobilised as a Flight Lieutenant in October 1945.Post-war, Woodhouse qualified as a teacher and was employed by the City of Birmingham Education Department, including a stint as headmaster of Leigh School; sold with copied career correspondence.…

United Arab Emirates, Order of Independence, 2nd Type, 2nd Class, breast Star, trial, by Spink & Son, silver-gilt with ten paste stones, some toning, very fine, scarceThe Order of Independence, 2nd Class, is bestowed upon Ministry undersecretaries and others who perform excellent services to the State. The three classes of the 2nd Type were instituted by Federal Law no. 8 in 2016.This breast Star trial piece features the flag of the U.A.E. being flown in the central medallion, which is circled by a ring of a geometric designs in red and green. The heptagonal star design features (paste) emeralds in each of the ten stylised rays, the colours of the designs all referencing the colours of the U.A.E. flag.…

The 'Post-War' R.R.C. group of six awarded to Matron E. Prescott, Queen Alexandra's Imperial Military Nursing Service, who was further 'mentioned' for her services in Sicily in March 1944Royal Red Cross, 1st Class (R.R.C.), silver-gilt and enamel, the reverse officially dated '1949', mounted for wear upon a lady's bow riband in its fitted Garrard & Co. box of issue; 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star, clasp, France and Germany; Africa Star, clasp, North Africa 1942-42; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf, mounted as worn, sold together with original material including the R.R.C. slip of issue named 'Matron E. Prescott, R.R.C.' and the envelope of issue named to the same, overall nearly extremely fine (6)R.R.C. London Gazette 1 January 1949.Ethel Prescott was born at Lund near Driffield, East Riding, Yorkshire on 22 October 1893, the daughter of Thomas and Jane Prescott. She was educated at Dame Chatterton's School for Young Ladies, North Dalton and after a brief spell as a housekeeper she went to train as a nurse with the Royal London Hospital.Qualifying as a state registered nurse and midwife she joined Queen Alexandra's Imperial Military Nursing Service on 15 August 1927 at Shorncliff, Kent as a Staff Nurse. Posted to India, Prescott was stationed at Rawalpindi in 1928 and saw a further six years of service on the subcontinent with postings at Murree, Peshawar, Nowshera and Quetta.Returning to service as a Sister on 30 May 1941, her first wartime posting was the Hospital Ship H.M.H.S. Aba. Later posted to South Africa she served at Pietermaritzburg in 1943 before being transferred to service in Italy. It was here that Prescott was 'mentioned' (London Gazette 23 March 1944, refers) before being posted to New York with the rank of Matron swiftly following.She remained in North America and Britain between 1944-45 before finally returning to the front in Germany in 1945. Prescott served in Burma in 1946 and finally at Wheatley in a hospital well known for its treatment of head injuries.After the war Prescott went on to serve as Matron at Dulverton Hall, Scarborough, a home for retired clergymen. Her medals were sent to her on 31 August 1948 at The Woods, Beckingham, Doncaster and she retired from Queen Alexandra's Imperial Military Nursing Service on 22 October 1948 with the rank of Honorary Principle Matron. She was admitted into the Royal Red Cross the next year, her award was sent to her at 72 Greengate, Malton, Yorkshire.Sold together with copied research and an original archive comprising a named slip of issue for the R.R.C., photograph of the recipient in uniform, newspaper cutting announcing the award, box and addressed envelope of issue and corresponding riband bar for the campaign medals.…

United Arab Emirates, Dubai Police 3rd Series, Order of the Dubai Police (4), 1st Class, gilt; 2nd Class, gilt; 3rd Class, silvered; 4th Class, silvered; Decoration of Excellent Service (2), 1st Class, for 40 years' service, gilt for Officers; 2nd Class, for 40 years' service, silvered for non-commissioned Officers; Order of Security Cooperation (2), 1st Class, gilt; 2nd Class, silvered, all by Fattorini, each with riband bar and in case of issue, overall good very fine and better (8)The Order of the Dubai Police is awarded to members of the police force, or to any citizen or foreigner, in recognition of services rendered or a specific excellent work regarding the police.The Decoration of Excellent Service is bestowed upon Officers, non-commissioned Officers, and individuals who have served for at least ten years, have excelled in performance, and have had a distinguished career without any disciplinary sanctions. The Order of Security Cooperation is given to members of the police, and to military and civilian personnel, who have done distinguished service in security cooperation and have contributed to security upgrades.…

The 'Tail End Charlie's' D.F.M. group of six awarded to Sergeant R. A. Norcross, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, who downed a FW.109 over HungaryDistinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. (1589610 Sgt. R. A. Norcross. R.A.F.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted court-style for wear, minor pitting, very fine (6)D.F.M. London Gazette 7 July 1944, the original recommendation states:'Sergeant Norcross was posted to this unit in November 1943, and has completed 20 Operational sorties over Italy, Yugo Slavia, Austria and Bulgaria.2. Sergeant Norcross is the rear gunner in a crew which has already carried out many successful operational sorties, and has achieved a high standard of crew co-operation. He is a keen and efficient Air Gunner, and had the complete confidence of his captain and the other members of the crew.3. On the night of 3rd April 1944, Sergeant Norcross had an opportunity of proving his alertness and efficiency when his aircraft had been ordered to attack the [M]anfred Weiss Works at Budapest. Shortly after leaving the target, two enemy aircraft were encountered. One of these aircraft, identified as a FW.190, fired a short burst of tracer at the Wellington, which turned to starboard. The enemy aircraft then continued its course, and passed approximately 20 feet under the Wellington's port Wing. Sergeant Norcross had been told over the intercom. that the FW.190 was "coming up on port at 300 yards 8 o'clock". He fired a three second burst with the FW.190 dead in his sights, and saw it burst into a blue white flame, descending then in a vertical dive. Several other Wellington crews saw the enemy aircraft crash, and Group have officially admitted the claim of one FW.190 destroyed.4. The above incident well illustrates the alertness and efficiency which Sergeant Norcross has displayed in all his operations. His action was typical of the manner in which he invariably carries out his work, and it is submitted that he well deserves the immediate recognition, which is strongly recommended.'Ronald Albert Norcross was serving with No. 37 Squadron based in Southern Italy when he won his award. They completed a number of missions from that region, notably helping to supply the Yugoslavian Partisans resisting German occupation and disrupting their supply routes to the Eastern Front.He was notably present on a raid on 20 January 1944 over the Cecina Railway Bridge in Tuscany. The raid was largely successful except for Norcross' own aircraft, commanded by Flying Officer Stanton, the Squadron Operations book notes:'F/O Stanton in "V" collided with another aircraft ("A" - F/Sgt. Kelly) over the target area but neither aircraft sustained very serious damage.'Despite this Norcross's Wellington found the bombing mechanism damaged, leaving them unable to complete the attack. During the attack over the Manfried Weiss works several months later fifteen Wellington's targeted Budapest to good effect but encountered heavy resistance as the Operations Book makes clear, stating:'The target was well defended, both from the ground and in the air, and moderate to intense H.A.A., and intense L.A.A., with "flaming onions" and 15-20 searchlights were reported. Several enemy fighters were seen in the target area, and one aircraft, captained by F/O Stanton, shot down a FW.190 over the target.'The official recommendation was seconded by The Officer Commanding No. 231 Wing who added his own opinion, stating:'I consider that the coolness and courage displayed by this N.C.O. was largely responsible not only for the destruction of an enemy aircraft but also for his own crew's and the aircraft's safe return to base.'Sold together with copied research.…

A superb I.D.S.M. awarded to Havildar D. Chand, 1-2nd Punjab Regiment; who latterly joined a Indian Parachute Regiment after Indian Independence and was killed in action during Operations in Jammu and Kashmir in 1947Indian Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (12524 Hav. Durga Chand, 1-2 Punjab. R.), minor official correction to forename, very fineI.D.S.M. Recommendation confirmed 20 September 1945, the recommendation states:'During the recent operations in the Sillaro valley Hav Durga Chand has on several occasions distinguished himself.On 15 Feb 45 in C Di Lucca 008298 he was in command of a party of eight IORs at pt 358 013297 when enemy estimated twenty attacked this post. Hav Durga Chand engaged them at short range and though outnumbered stuck to his post and inflicted at least five casualties on the enemy who then withdrew.In the third week of February 45, Hav Durga Chand with another sepoy led two recce patrols around pt 342 013299 and obtained very useful and accurate information of enemy mortars and Spandau positions on the reverse slopes of that feature. These enemy posns were subsequently engaged by our mortars and heavy casualties were inflected resulting in the reduction of enemy activity in that area.Again on 5 March 45 when the enemy attacked pt 358 Hav Durga Chand was in comd of a section there. Working his way behind the leading enemy scouts he captured one of them whilst his section inflicted four casualties on the remainder.During this period of one month in which his coy was actively engaged Hav Durga Chand on every occasion led his men with great gallantry. His leadership devotion to duty, and perseverance have been of the highest order.'Note the recipient's recommendation has been located and the book The Indian Distinguished Service Medal lists him as receiving the award, however, no London Gazette entry has been located either by the cataloguer or in the above-mentioned reference work.Durga Chand was born at Dharmpur Dasuya Hoshiarpur, Punjab. He served through the Second World War with the 1-2 Punjab Regiment and is listed as killed in action with the 1st Parachute Regiment during the Jammu and Kasmir Operations on 1 August 1949; sold together with copied research.…

An outstanding 'Trench Raid' M.C. group of eight awarded to 2nd Lieutenant J. F. Thoburn, 13th Battalion, Rifle Brigade, later Lieutenant-Colonel, Royal Army Service CorpsThoburn was photographed alongside his comrades before going into action and also wrote at length regarding the action which won his decorationMilitary Cross, G.V.R.; British War and Victory Medals (2. Lieut. J. F. Thoburn.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, clasp, 1st Army; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; Efficiency Decoration, Territorial, G.VI.R., reverse officially dated '1947', good very fine (8)M.C. London Gazette 11 January 1919:'When the enemy, in a determined counter-attack, gained a footing in our trenches this Officer led his men over the top and attacked those who had got through the wire, killing several, dispersing the remainder, and capturing a machine-gun and trench mortar. The confidence inspired in his men by his example restored a critical situation.'Jack Fancourt Thoburn enlisted into the Honourable Artillery Company on 17 April 1916 and served in France with the 3rd Company, 2nd Battalion (as No. 7455) from 18 November 1916. Sharing in the action at Bucquoy in February 1917, he was wounded in action. Thoburn was subsequently commissioned 2nd Lieutenant into the Rifle Brigade, serving with the 13th Battalion in France from March 1918. He earned his outstanding M.C. for his actions on 12-13 September, when a Trench Raid captured the enemy positions around Havrincourt Wood. Poison shells were sent down and a heavy counter came the following evening. Thoburn was photographed with his comrades before going into action and also wrote of his experiences:'I am off in an hour's time to the line, Captain Jenkins and Wallis are going with me for which I am awfully glad. We three are great chums. You know that since I have been a soldier I have passed through some awfully rough times and most trying experiences, especially in the earlier stages of the war, and I am by now pretty used to being knocked about : but going again into the thick of the fighting gives one a strange sensation - an indescribable feeling - going up to face death, but one must not think of that, the same Mighty Power that kept me all through those awful Somme battles, can still keep me. I'm just going to do my duty to the very best of my ability - my safety lies in Higher Hands. God knows what I have done in the last few days. I must tell you a little of what I have been doing, in myself I am quite fit, but very tired. My hands are cut up with innumerable cuts, my feet are shooting with pain from not taking my boots off for so long, but we are all in the same boat and are feeling quite happy. It is a lovely sunny day and quite warm, all our company officers are squatting outside our little dugout writing home.Now as some time has elapsed since these episodes, I think I can give you a few details of my adventures without in any way falling foul of my duties as a censor. One comes to my mind - We were leading the Company up, preparatory to "going over the top". Wood (the Coy Commander) and myself were trying to find our way in a wood, it was pitch dark. Wood went first and he suddenly disappeared, the next moment I followed him, falling about twenty feet through bushes, thorns and brambles. At the bottom I stumbled to my feet, breathless with the fall and choked with the gas from the shells that the Boches were firing around us. I heard Wood's voice for a moment and then I lost him - I got caught among the barbed wire - round and round I ploughed until I heard to my immense relief Davis' voice. We lay there together, our men just behind us waiting for the moment. Just like a cyclone it came, with one terrific roar our barrage breaks - then clear and distinct above the rumble of the guns came the sharp crack of the Machine guns - then over we went, and did some quick work. The prisoners came trooping up in groups. I came upon a party of young boys, they were terror stricken - up went their hands the moment they saw me and actually cried like babies. Two of our officers were killed, it was awfully hard luck, they were both such jolly good chaps, one of them was married. In consequence of their death, Hunter and I went to their company to help them and which meant we were very unfortunate, because we had to do the work of both companies. When "C" Coy was in, we were, and when "D" Coy was in, we were also, getting no respite from fighting.I enclose two ribbons - the black and white is the Iron Cross, the other ribbon is foreign, probably Turkish. I cut them from the tunic of a Boche Machine gunner - with his gun he held me up for some time doing a good deal of damage. He it was who killed our two officers, anyhow he was dead when I got up to him and these ribbons were his decorations; he was an intelligent looking fellow and looked quite peaceful in death.In one of the captured trenches we had a meal off German bread and sausage, the bread was damp, heavy and nearly black - the sausage reminded me of the German Mail and their uncooked dainties. Some tried the Boche wine, but the general verdict was that it was like methylated spirits. We found some good cigars and it was really amusing to see all our men swaggering about with cigars in their mouths. But there was more serious work ahead. The afternoon of the attack I had come off duty in the advance line and was lying down at Coy Headquarters - when there was a cry, "the Boches are coming", I sprang up and rushing along by a way that I know, gained the front line. There I found Hunter with some men retiring down the trench and some twenty yards away the Germans were coming down toward us. Our men were a bit windy, but Hunter and I made them make a stand and fetch bombs. Hunter is a fine bomber, so he threw the bombs, while I carried on with a borrowed rifle and my revolver. We retired very slowly - the Boches were chucking their bombs. These bombs of theirs make an awful row, but don't do much damage unless you get too close to one. Unfortunately they had also got some of ours, which are of a different calibre. I was bringing up the rear as we retired, and was having quite a pretty little duel with the Hun Serg. Major who was leading their attack - he evidently wanted me as a prisoner, for every time we faced each other round a traverse he signed and shouted to me to put my hands up. Of course my only answer was revolver ammunition, it was not likely that I was going to put my hands up to a Boche. Well at last we got to a fair stock of bombs, so we made a halt and bombed steadily. Hunter stands 6 ft 4 in and throws bombs magnificently. This went on for about twenty minutes, and then we found that we were not being answered, so we decided to advance. First of the party came myself with my revolver - then came Hunter with bombs and one or two men. We went round two traverses then we came upon two Huns. The first was the Serg. Major - dead, the next was a young lad, he had been hit in the hand and had a nasty gash in his head. As this poor lad saw me he tried to collect himself but he was far too gone, I can see his bloodshot eyes now as he tried to raise his head - on the other side of the trench was a Boche officer, dead, As we advanced we found quite a number of dead, we had done better than anticipated - we made a rush and took six machine guns, one Minnen-werfer and coil of telephone wire. So we had managed to stop rather a large counter attack. The "D" Company Commander sent in a very good report to Battalion Headquarters about our work, which was encouraging. The Corporal and two men who backed us up have been recommended for the Distinguished Conduct Medal and the Military Medal. I have written but bald facts, of course there is much more but I must not tell just yet.The German Planes a…

The 1944 D.F.C. group of four awarded to Flight Lieutenant L. C. Ainsley, Royal Air Force, who ploughed on through heavy flak despite taking a total of four hits and successfully bombed the target: making it back to Britain he crash landed without any casualties and little damage to the aircraftDistinguished Flying Cross, G.VI.R., the reverse dated '1944'; 1939-45 Star (P/O L. C. Ainsley R.A.F.); France and Germany Star (F/O L. C. Ainsley No. 51. Sqd. R.A.F.; War Medal 1939-45 (F/O. L. C. Ainsley. D.F.C. R.AF.), all campaign awards privately in the same style, mounted court style as worn, sold together with a Buckingham Palace slip of issue named to the recipient and a related telegram, good very fine (4)D.F.C. London Gazette 31 October 1944, the original citation states:'This officer is a most competent pilot and a first-class captain of aircraft. One night in September 1944, he was detailed for an attack on a synthetic oil plant at Nordstefn. When nearing the target area the aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire and the starboard inner engine was rendered unserviceable. Shortly afterwards the aircraft was hit in the port aileron; making it difficult to steer correctly. In spite of this, Flying Officer Ainsley continued to the target and bombed it. On the turn for home the bomber was hit once more. The port engine was affected and the hydraulic system was put out of action. After crossing the-English coast the defective port engine became useless. Flight Lieutenant Ainsley thereupon headed for the nearest airfield where he made a safe landing with the undercarriage retracted. This officer set a fine example of skill, courage and tenacity.'Lawrence Cuthbert Ainsley enlisted with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve on 19 June 1941 and was commissioned Pilot Officer with the General Branch on 21 April 1944. Initially posted to No. 41 base, Marston Moor, Yorkshire on 21 April he later joined No. 51 Squadron on 30 July. His first raid as a Captain of Aircraft occurred on 3 August 1944 in a Halifax III over Bors-de Cassan.Three further raids that month saw good results and Ainsley was present for an attack over Le Havre on 10 September. It was for the raid the next day, 11 September 1944, that he was awarded the D.F.C, the Squadron Record book provides details for that day stating:'This aircraft sustained flak damage over the target, causing on [SIC] engine to be feathered. On arriving over this country another engine had to be feathered, and the aircraft was landed safely away from base on two engines. No members of the crew were injured. The aircraft landed away from base.'The initial recommendation for the award expands upon this, stating:'On 11th September 1944 this officer was the captain of an aircraft detailed to attack the synthetic oil plant at Nordstorn. When about fifteen miles distant from the target and at 18,000 feet, his aircraft was hit by heavy flak which rendered the starboard inner engine unserviceable, but he continued one his course and shortly afterwards the aircraft was hit again, causing damage to the port aileron and making it difficult to handle. Flying Officer Ainsley still continued on his course, however, and although he was hit yet again and had lost height to 14,000 feet, he pressed home his attack and bombed the target. Then as he was turning away and was about to leave the defended area, the aircraft was hit by a fourth burst. This time the wireless operator was slightly wounded in the head, the hydraulics were hit and the port inner engine was destroyed.After clearing the Ruhr defences he set course for Woodbridge, but on crossing the English coast the port inner engine finally stopped and a crash landing had to be made at the nearest aerodrome. Without hydraulics to operate the undercarriage and flaps, he landed the aircraft without appreciable damage or any injury to the crew.Flying Officer Ainsley's devotion to duty in continuing to bomb the target in spite of serious damage to his aircraft and in the face of intense flak, and his skill in bringing his aircraft back and landing it without more serious consequences, deserves the highest praise and his courage and determination are an example to all.Flying Officer Ainsley had now carried out nine sorties against the enemy, and has proved himself to be a most competent pilot and a good captain and leader. He is recommended for the immediate award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.'The station Commander commanding R.A.F. Snaith added his own recommendation stating:'This officer undoubtedly showed courage and determination in pressing home his attack in the face of what appears to have been very accurate predicted flak, and a high degree of skill in bringing home his badly-damaged aircraft back to this country and landing it with so little damage and without injury to his crew.He also displayed great coolness and presence of mind, and proved himself to be an excellent operational captain. He is strongly recommended for the immediate award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.'This is back up by an exciting account in the Sunday Sun (Newcastle) on 29 October 1944 which states:'A young man called L. C. Ainsley born in Carlise in 1916, was working on a television research bench in America when the war began, but he was determined not to miss it. So he "jumped" an oil tanker and worked his way to England. To-day he is Flying Officer Ainsley and has just gained the immediate award of the D.F.C. for fine work during the bombing of the oil works at Nordstern. His Halifax was thrice hit before reaching the target - but it got there. One more it was hit after the bomb load had gone - but it got home with a crash-landing near a drome. Now he thinks he will stay on this side of the Atlantic and make the R.A.F. a career. He has married a Scots Girl.'Ainsley was advanced Flying Officer on 21 October 1944 and continued to fly, seeing a total of seventeen successful sorties. Transferred to R.A.F. Tangmere on 15 May 1945 he was posted to the Administrative and Special Duties Branch on 26 April 1945 and then transferred to Andrews Field on 27 July.Several more transfers occurred to sites such as R.A.F. West Malling on 5 September, Castle Camps on 27 September and R.A.F. Duxford on 10 December. However he was to leave the R.A.F. under a cloud, being dismissed by sentence of a Court Marshal on 6 August 1946.…

The stretcher-bearer's D.C.M., 'Great War' M.M. group of four awarded to Corporal W. J. Barltrop, 17th (British Empire League) Battalion, King's Royal Rifle CorpsDistinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (C-3553 L.Cpl W. J. Barltropp. 17/K.R.R.C.); Military Medal, G.V.R. (C-3553 L.Cpl W. J. Barltrop. 17/K.R.R.C.); British War and Victory Medals (C-3553 Cpl. W. J. Barltrop. K.R.Rif.C.), some light edge wear, minor contact marks, overall very fine (4)D.C.M. London Gazette 22 October 1917, the original citation states:'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty as stretcher bearer. He worked untiringly for six days, dressing the wounded under fire with admirable skill and disregard of personal danger. During this time he carried a wounded man, who was in need of immediate medical treatment, over ground which was swept by enemy snipers; they had already that day accounted for four runners who were using the same road. No praise can be too great for his courage and devotion.'M.M. London Gazette 6 January 1917.William James Barltrop, sometimes spelled Barltropp, was born near Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire around 1886. He appears on the 1901 census living at Henham Hall Cottages, near Stansted, Saffron Walden. Enlisting with the 17th (British Empire League) Battalion Barltrop entered the war in France with them at some stage after 1916.The Battalion entered the war in April 1916 and saw action during the Somme Offensive starting at Ancre in September before moving to support the attack on the Schwaben Redoubt in October. Given the date of Gazette for Barltrop's M.M. it is quite likely that his medal was related to these actions.The 17th Battalion saw out a gruelling Christmas and New Year in the Ypres Salient suffering a constant attritional stream of losses. They were back in the action proper at the start of the Third Battle of Ypres at Pilckem Ridge and saw continual fighting through July, August and into September. It was very likely during the early engagements of that Offensive that Barltrop won his D.C.M.The Regiment was seriously mauled during the German Spring Offensive of early 1918 and as such they were amalgamated into a composite Brigade. After the Offensive was halted they went into the reserve as a training cadre. Barltrop appears to have taken his pension from April 1919, his death was registered in 1925; sold together with copied research.…

The campaign group of six awarded to Nurse K. L. Lane, French Red CrossBritish War and Victory Medals (K. L. Lane.); France, Republic, Medal of Honour, Ministry of War for Epidemics, silver, reverse embossed 'Miss K. Lane 1917'; Union of Women of France, Nurses Medal 1914-18, silver issue; Great War Medal 1914-18; French Red Cross Medal, very fine (6)Purchased September 1996.Kathleen L. Lane (latterly Lane-Turner served as a Nurse with the French Red Cross in France from September 1914 (Pair only confirmed on MIC). She had qualified in France and also worked at some point in Russia, meeting her husband, Hugh Turner, who was a Surgeon. She is understood to have died in Staines in the early 1950s.…

Sold by Order of a Direct Descendant'After some delay...a letter was received on Tuesday from Sir George explaining that the claim of the old Peninsular veteran had been doubly recognised; with the sanction of H.R.H, the Queen has been informed through Sir Henry Ponsonby of Captain Gammell's case, and Her Majesty was so interested in it that she decided to present to the veteran her Jubilee medal, in addition to the Peninsular medal...Those who know what a staunch supporter of the Throne and Constitution he has always been, as well as a brave officer in his younger days, will heartily congratulate him on the double honours he has received, especially his kind recognition by the Queen' (Bath Chronicle & Weekly Gazette, Thursday 28 September 1893, refers)The historically fascinating and unique Peninsular War and Queen Victoria Jubilee pair awarded to Captain J. Gammell, late 59th, 92nd and 61st regiments of Foot, who was almost certainly the last surviving British Officer of the Peninsular War and who claimed his campaign Medal in 1889 - an astonishing 75 years after the battle in which he participated and such a remarkable circumstance that The Queen herself then commanded that he should also be awarded her Jubilee MedalMilitary General Service 1793-1814, 1 clasp, Nive (Ensign, James Gammell. 59th Foot.), this officially named in the style of the Egypt and Sudan Medal 1882-89; Jubilee 1887, silver, unnamed as issued, mounted together upon a silver bar for wear, on their original ribands and contained within a bespoke fitted leather case by Mallett, Goldsmith, Bath, the top lid tooled in gilded letters stating: Presented by Command of Her Majesty Queen Victoria to Capt. James Gammell, late 92nd, 61st and 59th Regiments, when in his 93rd year, 9 March 1889., traces of old lacquer, otherwise about extremely fine (2)James Gammell, second son of Lieutenant-General Andrew Gammell and Martha Stageldoir, was born in London on 3 January 1797. Scion of an old Scottish family, his father enjoyed a long (if undistinguished) military career and appears to have been a personal friend of H.R.H. the Duke of York; it is he who may have been responsible for the elder Gammell's appointment to the socially-prestigious 1st Foot Guards in September 1803.On 29 September 1813, young James Gammell was commissioned Ensign (without purchase) in the 59th (2nd Nottinghamshire) Regiment of Foot (London Gazette, 2 October 1813, refers). The 2nd Battalion of the 59th had already seen its fair share of active service during the Napoleonic Wars, having been in Spain in 1808 and 1809 before being re-deployed on the disastrous Walcheren Campaign. Returning home, in 1812 the unit was sent back to the Iberian Peninsula where they participated in most of the final battles of that campaign including Vittoria (June 1813); Nivelle (November 1813) and the Nive (December 1813). Gammell clearly must have joined his regiment in the summer or autumn of that year, as his single-clasp Medal attests; for his first (and indeed only) major battle he must have seen a significant amount of fighting as the 59th suffered casualties of some 159 men killed and wounded. The regiment returned home at the conclusion of hostilities, and Gammell is next noted as being promoted into the Sicilian Regiment on 27 April 1815 (London Gazette, 6 May 1815, refers).Remaining in the peacetime Army, like many young junior officers Gammell moved through several different units over the next few years. The Sicilian Regiment may have offered the chance for some interesting soldiering, but it is unlikely he ever spent time with them as on 1 June the same year he transferred (still as Lieutenant) into the 61st (South Gloucestershire) Regiment of Foot. Likely with them on garrison duty in Jamaica from 1816-22 on 21 August 1823 he moved again, this time to the 64th (2nd Staffordshire) Regiment of Foot - but again still as a Lieutenant. In 1825 he was promoted to Captain in the 92nd (Gordon Highlanders) by purchase (London Gazette, 14 May 1825, refers) - but yet again he was not destined to remain long in his regiment as a mere five months later the London Gazette carries another entry (dated 22 October) stating that he had retired on 6 October that year.It is quite likely that, in reality, Gammell had no need to be a soldier as he was an independently wealthy man. In 1816, soon after his father's death, his grandfather purchased an agricultural estate for him and, though the two were later to fall out over the subject of Gammell's marriage to a Miss Sydney Holmes, the estate ensured he was to receive a steady source of income for him and his family for the rest of his life. Marrying Miss Holmes on 21 September 1825, the couple went on to have no less than ten children and in 1834 the Gammell family moved to Edinburgh before relocating to Bath in 1856-57 and taking up residence at 16 Grosvenor Place. Here Gammell was to remain until his death on 23 September 1893 at the remarkable age of 96, which makes him quite likely the last surviving British officer to have participated in the Peninsular War - a fact supported by several primary and secondary sources, the latter including a reference in the Journal of the Orders and Medals Research Society (March 2009) and the book Wellington's Men Remembered: A Register of Memorials to Soldiers who Fought in the Peninsular War and at Waterloo. He was interred at Locksbrook Cemetery, Bath, and the occasion included his coffin being conveyed to the site in a closed hearse, covered in a Union Jack, and a wreath stating: 'In kindly remembrance of the last of the Peninsular officers.'However, his story does not end here, as just a few years previously he became the subject of a remarkable tale which led to the award of two medals - the first of which he had earned as a 17-year-old Ensign in the 59th Foot all those years ago. The 'Bath Chronicle' takes up the story:'Captain James Gammell, the only surviving officer of the British Army which fought in the Peninsular War, died on Saturday last at 16, Grosvenor Place, Bath, where he had resided for many years...By his death the work of charity in the neighbourhood of Larkhall loses a generous friend, the Conservative cause one of its most ardent supporters, and the Queen one of the most loyal and devoted of her subjects. His loyalty and attachment to her Majesty was one of the dominant features of Captain Gammell's character and his enthusiasm was evidenced during the celebration of the Royal Jubilee in 1887. Flags were liberally displayed at his residence, and the letters "V.R." in gas jets, with a shield bearing the Royal arms, and the motto "Tria in juncta uno - Quis separabit." ...In March, 1889, the Bath Chronicle thus described how Captain Gammell received the Peninsular medal and the Queen's Jubilee medal: -A curious and gratifying incident has just occurred, which for the credit of all concerned is worth recording. At the latter end of December Colonel Balguy happened to be at the National Provincial Bank, and a casual remark made by him led a venerable gentleman near to say that it was just 75 years ago that he donned the red coat. Surprised at the communication, Colonel Balguy rejoined "You must have been in the Peninsula." "I was at Bayonne in 1814, when the French made their sortie," replied the stranger. "Then you have a medal?" He explained that he never had one nor had he applied for one, and in reply to further questions, stated that he was an Ensign in the 59th Regiment, and retired as a Captain from the Gordon Highlanders in 1825. The conversation again turned upon the medal, and after some hesitation he accepted Colonel Balguy's o…

The Naval General Service Medal awarded to Rear-Admiral E. R. P. Mainwaring, who saw a remarkable forty-two years of active service and commanded the boats during the capture of the American letter-of-marque Rapid in 1814Naval General Service 1793-1840, 1 clasp, Egypt (E. R. Mainwaring.), note absence of third initial, good very fineEdward Reeves Philip Mainwaring was born on 16 June 1788 at Prince Edward Island, Canada. Scion of a great 'fighting' family of Whitmore, Staffordshire and with lineage stretching back to the Norman Conquest, his father fought during the American War of Independence and all four brothers also entered either the Army or Royal Navy - one, Benjamin, was an officer aboard 'The Fighting Temeraire' at Trafalgar and another, Frederick, fought at Waterloo as a Lieutenant in the 51st Regiment of Foot.Young Edward entered the Navy in the summer of 1799 as a First-Class Volunteer and was appointed to the 44-gun H.M.S. Roebuck which acted as a troopship between March and September 1801 for British operations during the Egyptian campaign. In November 1801 he was appointed Midshipman in the 64-gun H.M.S. Haarlem and, as was usual for the time, continued to receive appointments to other vessels when required. He was advanced to Acting-Lieutenant in 1806 aboard the 18-gun sloop H.M.S. Espoir but shortly afterward was promoted Lieutenant (11 June 1807) and removed to the 74-gun H.M.S. Plantagenet, with which vessel he saw out the rest of the Napoleonic Wars.It was with this ship that Mainwaring appears to have experienced the most exciting days of his active service. After a deployment to the Baltic Plantagenet and her crew were next assigned to the North American and West India stations. Consequently seeing much action during the War of 1812, Mainwaring must have been aboard in July 1813 when U.S. Navy Sailing Master Elijah Mix tried to destroy Plantagenet with torpedoes designed by inventor and engineer Robert Fulton. Mix made the attempt no less than seven times; the first six all missed, and the seventh prematurely exploded. The 'Yankey Torpedo' was a known threat to officers and men of the Royal Navy, and one wonders what Mainwaring thought about being on the receiving end of such an 'ungentlemanly' way of warfare.Returning to more traditional ways of engaging with the enemy, in 1814 Plantagenet was pursuing the American latter-of-marque Rapid when both vessels were becalmed when the wind died away. Mainwaring was ordered to take command of the ship's boats and, after rowing for an astonishing 11 hours, came up with the Rapid, boarded and captured her notwithstanding a spirited defence by her crew of 40 men. For this action, Mainwaring was publicly thanked by the Commander-in-Chief of the North American Station, Admiral Sir John Borlase Warren.Despite the vast reductions in manpower and ships in the aftermath of the conflict, after a mercifully short period on half-pay (1815-18) Mainwaring was fortunate to be employed at sea once again and for the following eight years served aboard the 74-gun Ramillies and the 84-gun Ganges; in the latter vessel on the West India and Brazilian stations as well as at home. Promoted Commander on 27 May 1826, perhaps a desire to somewhat settle-down led to both an appointment with the Coast Guard service and his marriage to Miss Eliza Hill, daughter of the Reverend Hill, Rector of Snailwell in Cambridgeshire. He was employed by the Coast Guard until 1835 and four years later was given command of the 18-gun sloop H.M.S. Electra on the South America Station, returning home in 1841 on promotion to Captain. Slowly but steadily rising up the seniority list to be promoted Rear-Admiral (Retired) on 12 April 1862, Admiral Mainwaring died at Brighton on 5 October 1865 at the age of 77, with his death being noted in many local newspapers and journals - all of which specifically state that he was actively employed for more than 40 years; an impressive feat indeed during the age of sail and many years of peace in Europe.…

The Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St. George, Knight Commander's (K.C.M.G.) set of Insignia, comprising neck Badge, silver-gilt and enamel; breast Star, silver with appliqué centre in gold and enamel, by Edward Thomason, 'ET' hallmarks to pinback and catch, nearly extremely fine with full neck riband as worn and in fitted Garrard & Co., 24 Abermarle St. case, this with broken exterior clasp (2)The 'ET' hallmark is associated with the workshop of Edward Thomason, who was knighted by King William IV in 1832, and whose workshop was headquartered in Birmingham and active circa 1806-1835. The breast Star is therefore an older example of the insignia which is held inside a more modern case.…

Three: Private M. Wabanoose, 52nd Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force, who died of wounds sustained in action on 31 August 1917, shortly after the Battle for Hill 60 - he was a First Nations Canadian from Wiikwemkong on Manitoulin IslandBritish War and Victory Medals (754976 Pte. M. Wabanoose. 52-Can. Inf.); Great War Bronze Memorial Plaque (Michael Wabanoose), good very fine (3)Michael Wabanoose was born on 5 July 1895 at Wikwemikong, Manitoulin Island, Ontaria, son of Antoine Wabanosse. Today, these lands remain a reserve of First Nations Canadians and is occupied by Ojibwa, Odawa, and Potawatomi peoples under the Council of Three Fires. A farmer by trade upon his joining the Canadian Forces in March 1916, his complexion was described as 'swarthy', he served initially with the 119th (Algoma) Battalion, who were based at Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario and took a number of the 'Manitoulin Boys' into their ranks. Sailing from Halifax on 8 August 1916, he joined the 52nd Battalion in the field in France on 4 December 1916. Wabanoose went into action in the Third Battle of Ypres and would have shared in the Battle for Hill 60. He was mortally wounded - with gunshot wounds to his arms and legs - on 26 August 1917, was admitted to 22nd Casualty Clearing Station but died on 31 August 1917. Wabanoose is buried in the Bruay Communal Cemetery Extension.…

The Great War C.M.G., '1918' D.S.O. group of six awarded to Brigadier-General N. G. Barron, Royal Garrison Artillery, who commanded the Heavy Artillery for XVII Corps for three years before being appointed a Divisional Commander of the Royal Irish Constabulary after the Great War, he was further awarded the C.B.E. in that roleThe Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St. George, Companion's (C.M.G.) neck Badge, silver-gilt and enamel, in its Garrard & Co. case of issue; The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, Commander's (C.B.E.) neck Badge, Civil Division, silver-gilt and enamel, note the Badge on incorrect riband, Distinguished Service Order, G.V.R., silver-gilt and enamel; 1914-15 Star (Lt. Col. N. G. Barron. R.G.A.); British War and Victory Medals (Brig. Gen. N. G. Barron.), with M.I.D. oak leaves; Delhi Durbar 1911, unnamed as issued, the last five mounted as worn, overall good very fine (6)C.M.G. London Gazette 1 January 1919.C.B.E. London Gazette 1 January 1923.D.S.O. London Gazette 1 January 1918.M.I.D. London Gazette 4 January 1917; 11 December 1917; 20 December 1918.Netterville Guy Barron was born at Dover, Kent on 8 December 1867, the son of John and Louisa Barron of Kensington, London. His father had been the head of the 'Barron Syndicate' a fraudulent business partnership in which he had been manipulated into taking the fall for a number of false land purchases, the elder Barron shot himself in 1893. The younger Barron was educated Haileybury College (Leith House) before matriculating to the Royal Military Academy, Woolwich which he joined as a Cadet on 28 August 1885. Commissioned 2nd Lieutenant on 16 February 1887, he was advanced Lieutenant on 16 February 1890.Further promoted Captain on 9 October 1897 he was still serving in that rank when he married Esmee Katharine Mary Lloyd in 1899. Barron was promoted Major on 2 May 1906 and was serving in that rank on the outbreak of the Great War in 1914. Further promoted Lieutenant Colonel on 30 October 1914 he entered the war in France in July 1915.Appointed to command the heavy artillery of XVII Corps in 1917 with the acting rank of Brigadier-General on 9 April 1916 Barron held that role until the end of the war, being thrice 'mentioned' in the process. He is also believed to have been wounded at some stage during the action.After the end of hostilities Barron retired in 1920 with the rank of Brigadier-General and took up a position as Divisional Commissioner of the Munster branch of the Royal Irish Constabulary from 1920-1922. A photograph exists of him at the centre of the County Westmeath Force on its disbandment in 1922. It is notable that his award of the C.B.E. came a year later and may well have been as a result of his services in Ireland during the War of Independence and Civil War (neck Badge).Barron settled initially at Farnham, Surrey and later died at Kensington, London on 21 April 1945.…

A very fine Gold Al Valore Militare awarded to Vice-Commander of the Bologna Partisan Division A. Cucchi, who served in the field under the code name JacopoItaly, Republic, Al Valore Militare, Gold issue, silver-gilt, marked 'A-800' (Cucchi Aldo - Imola-Bologna - 9-9-943 - 21-4-45.), good very fineCitation states:'Founder, organizer and commander of the partisan units in the Imola area, he stood out from the first days for his sagacity in organization and his courage in action. These qualities shone later in Bologna where, in command of a GAP, he carried out actions against Nazi headquarters and units, actions that had a wide resonance encouraging the people of Bologna to resist Nazi oppression.Arrested by the SS and managing to escape, he worked as a doctor and fighter in a Brigade operating behind the German deployment on the Gothic Line.During a tough battle, seeing his commander fall, he picked up his body and rushed with a few men into the midst of the advancing enemy. He then re-established the seriously compromised situation, dragging the partisans in the wake of his courage. Commander of a Brigade and deputy commander of the "Bologna" Division, he was recognised and remembered as one of the clearest figures of the partisan movement in Emilia and as one of the major architects of the heroic recovery of that region.'Aldo Cucchi was born on 27 December 1911. A graduate in medicine and surgery, Cucchi had secretely joined the Communist Party in 1938. He took part in the Second World War as a Medical Lieutenant on the Greek-Albanian front and was transferred in 1942 to the hospital in Bologna with the rank of Lieutenant. After the armistice of 8 September 1943, he actively participated in the resistance movements with the battle name of Jacopo, becoming Vice-Commander of the Bologna Partisan Division in 1945. After the war, he worked as a forensic doctor but turned to politics. In 1948 he was elected as Deputy of the Italian Communist Party and ventured to the Soviet Union in 1950, writing about his experiences in a 1952 book entitled Una delegazione italiana in Russia. With various factions and changes to the party in Italy, he ended his career in the ranks of the Italian Democratic Socialist Party. An Honorary Citizen of Bologna, Cucchi died on 8 May 1983.…

The '1916 Trench Raid' D.C.M. awarded to Sergeant H. P. Evans, 19th Battalion, Australian Infantry, who was killed in action during the final days of the Somme OffensiveDistinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (1890 L.Cpl. H. P. Evans. 19/Aust:Inf:), nearly extremely fineD.C.M. London Gazette 22 September 1916, the original citation states:'For conspicuous gallantry during a successful raid on the enemy's trenches. He carried in the body of a sergeant, who had been killed, 200 yards under intense shellfire. On another occasion he shot the leader of an enemy patrol whilst reconnoitring.'Hamblett Poole Evans was born at Coldfield, Warwickshire in 1889, the son of George and Kate Evans of Silverdale, Manor Road, Sutton Coldfield. Emigrating to Australia he was working as a storekeeper when the Great War began and joined the Australian Imperial Force in New South Wales, being posted to the 19th Battalion.This unit was posted to Gallipoli, arriving at Anzac Cove just after the initial landings they saw action at the attack on Hill 60. Evans was not to remain with the unit for the duration of their time in Gallipoli, being evacuated with gonorrhoea on 13 November. Almost immediately upon his recovery he caught malaria on Lemnos which incapacitated him until after the evacuation of the peninsula.He joined the British Expeditionary Force Evans and the rest of the Battalion went into the trenches in the Armentières area. Around this time his service papers record:'Complimented by Lt Gen W. R. Birdwood K.C.S.I., K.C.M.G., C.I.E., D.S.O., in Army Corps Orders dated 26.6.16. for gallant action on the night of 20/21st June 1916.'A week after the action he was commended for, on the night of 25-26 June he took part in a trench raid, it seems to have been for this action that the award of the D.C.M. was made. Caught in a shell blast in August, Evans was evacuated to Britain with shrapnel wounds and a sprained ankle.Rejoining his unit on 3 November he was with them for the capture of Gird trench on 14 November 1916. Evans was killed in action during the attack and is commemorated upon the Villers-Bretonneux Memorial.…

BRITISH ARMYThe 1st King's Dragoon GuardsWhen stationed at Aldershot, on 12 February 1879, the King's Dragoon Guards received a sudden order for service in South Africa. With as little delay as practicable, they were brought up to war strength by volunteers from other corps and the transfer of horses; on 27 February the left wing embarked at Southampton under the command of Major Marter, in the hired transport Spain; the right wing, with Headquarters, followed the next day under Colonel Alexander in the Egypt.Both ships arrived at Durban on 8 April, the men marching to Pietermaritzburg and then on to Dundee where they were joined by the 17th Lancers. On 19 April both regiments began marching towards Rorke's Drift, arriving at the battleground of Isandhlwana two days later; here they attempted to identify and bury the bodies of those who perished almost three months previously.Engaged in reconnaissance for a time thereafter, on 6 June the K.D.G's were involved in a particularly savage exchange at Erzungayan: the Zulus were found strongly posted in a wood which was intersected with dongas, and in front of which was a line of four large kraals and from here they poured a heavy fusillade upon men under the command of Colonel Buller and those of the 17th Lancers under Colonel Lowe. Seeing this, and fearing the Zulus might rush out upon the horses, the K.D.G's formed up on the flank and right rear of the 17th; the Zulus however remained completely concealed in the wood, and General Marshall had little choice but to give the order to retire. Realising their opportunity and following in skirmishing order, the Dragoon's had barely crossed the Upoko, in which there were quicksands, when a brisk fire was opened upon them.Thereafter, the regiment was employed on regular reconnaissance and skirmishing duties, using Fort Newdigate as a staging post; in these raids scores of native villages were destroyed. On the night of 7 August 1879, a detachment marched to Emptonjaneni, twelve miles distant from Ulundi. In the night a fearful storm of wind and rain smashed into the camp and continued until 11 a.m. the next morning. Lightning strikes, shock and the sheer ferocity of the weather left 360 transport bullocks dead in the camp, with approximately 90 more being discovered dead in the surrounding bushes.On 18 August Major Marter marched with a squadron of K.D.G's under orders to establish a chain of outposts to St. Paul's, 40 miles distant, and to keep up communications throughout the line by patrolling day and night, in order to prevent the King from breaking across. The men subsequently joined Clarke's Column and on 27 August the expedition commenced which resulted in the capture of the King.719 Medals were issued to the 1st King's Dragoon Guards, 641 of them with the '1879' clasp.Pair: Troop Sergeant-Major W. McGill, 1st King's Dragoon GuardsSouth Africa 1877-79, 1 clasp, 1879 (2181. Sergt. W. McGill. 1st. Dn. Gds.); Army L.S. & G.C., V.R. (2181. Tp: Sgt: Maj: W. McGill. 1st Dgn. Gds.), very fine (2)William McGill was born at Edinburgh in 1847 and was discharged to pension on 13 May 1890.…

An 'Arnhem P.O.W.' group of five awarded to Corporal R. S. Telford, 7th Battalion, King's Own Scottish Borderers, who went 'in the bag' on 23 September during a fierce tank attack on the Battalion's perimeter1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; Cadet Forces, E.II.R. (WO. R. S. Telford. A.T.C.), sold together with the recipient's dog tags and soldier's release book, light pitting and contact marks, very fine (5)Robert Smith Telford was born on 13 June 1919, a native of Dumfriesshire and enlisted on 1 September 1939 with the King's Own Scottish Borderers. Joining the 7th (Galloway) Battalion he was with them in Scotland during the Fall of France, indeed the Battalion was not to leave Britain for some time. They transferred to the 1st Air Landing Brigade in 1943 and continued to train with them until the D-Day Landings.7th Battalion took off on 17 September 1944 for Operation Market Garden, landing in the Ede area in 1944 and initially all went well. The next day however they came under attack by several parties of German troops with armoured vehicles in support, a situation which would become increasingly familiar over the next week of fighting.Moving off they fought a sharp action at Johanna Hoeve farm but managed to repel a German attack and continue on towards Arnhem. Arriving at Oosterbeek, some 5 kilometeres west of Arnhem on 19 September they dug in there to assume their corner of the perimeter. The enemy started to probe their lines not long later, and by 09:00 on 20 September they had established the Battalion's positions allowing the battle to begin in earnest. Some of the ferocity of the fighting can be ascertained from the war diary which notes the first armoured 'kill' made by the unit:'The first "kill" was an armoured car which was blown up and set on fire by the atk gun covering the NORTH face. Later another atk gun under Lt HANNAH, and escorted by a Pl of B Coy, went out to watch the rd leading SOUTH from the rd and rly crossing at 699791. Soon after it was in posn a TIGER tk, towing a flame-throwing apparatus, appeared and a spirited action took place. As a result of the courageous behaviour of our atk gun crew, and of Cpl WATSON and Pte McWHIRTER in particular, the TIGER tk was completely knocked out and the crew killed.'Through that day and the next, 7th Battalion halted the enemy advance, unable to withdraw due to constant pressure and concern over losing their limited equipment in the dark. A break in the attacks on 22 September allowed them the chance to reform and prepare their positions for another attack, however they could not have been prepared for the forces ranged against them.A heavy barrage opened the day and at around 11:00 'B' Company came under heavy attack by a force of tanks with infantry and artillery support. Their anti-tank gun was knocked out, forcing them back from a line of buildings, however they gamely held on to their slit trenches and bunkers, fighting for every yard. Their partial withdrawal allowed the German infantry to push onto the flank of 'C' company who also came under attack from Armoured cars to their front.Soon the action became an attempt by the Germans to consolidate a piece of their hard won gains in the face of heavy fire and counter-attacks by the Battalion. They were able to prepare machine gun positions in the wood between 'B' and 'C' companies, thus keeping that gap open and completing their objective.The only option was a counter-attack which was carried out by 'C' Company, who despite several losses managed to retake the wood and capture a number of the enemy. The line re-established they managed to hold off further attacks for the rest of the day, taking a tally of German tanks, damaged or destroyed in the process. It was noted in the war diary that the Regimental Aid Post was full to bursting as the Medical Aid Post had fallen into enemy hands, suggesting that some areas of the perimeter were still occupied by the enemy.Telford is listed as being taken prisoner of war during the days fighting, it is likely he was a victim of the morning offensive which almost saw the line break. Taken to Stalag 11B at Fallingbostel he remained there until being repatriated at the end of the war. Upon his return to the British Army he was posted to a Holding Regiment, Royal Artillery but saw no service with them instead being demobilised on 11 April 1946. Later joining the Cadet Forces he was awarded the Cadet Forces medal with them. Telford died in Dumfries on 8 December 1898 and is buried at Lockerbie; sold together with copied research, a set of original dog tags and an original soldier's release book named to the recipient.…

United Arab Emirates, Ministry of Interior, Emirates Police and Security Order, 5th Class breast Badge, gilt and enamel, with riband bar, in its case of issue; Sincere Service Order (3), 1st Type, 1st Class, gilt with seven pearl-tipped ends; 2nd Type, 1st Class, gilt with seven pearl-tipped ends, with riband bar, in its case of issue; 2nd Type, 2nd Class, silvered with seven pearl-tipped ends, with riband bar, in its case of issue, all by Fattorini, very fine and better (4)The Emirates Police and Security Order is bestowed upon both members of and civilians working for the Police and Security force who render excellent service or outstanding work. The 5th Class of the Order is awarded to non-commissioned Officers, candidate students and individuals. The obverse of the Order displays the emblem of the U.A.E. surrounded by an Arabic inscription which translates to 'Ministry of the Interior - Emirates Order of Police and Security'.The Sincere Service Order is given to members of the Police and Security force who have served for a minimum of ten years who have displayed honesty and sincerity throughout their period of service. The 1st Class Medal is bestowed upon Officers and the 2nd Class upon non-commissioned Officers and individuals. The obverse of the star bears an antique tower and walls, with a tree in the foreground.…

StaffSome 48 Medals issued to the Staff, 3 of these to Interpreters and all with clasp '1879'.'The Border Horse now began to fire at the distant snipers, and Wood waited to see what effect the shots might have. A Zulu suddenly popped up from a rock a scant fifty yards away and fired. Wood noted that the shot seemed low, but Lloyd fell back, exclaiming, "I'm hit - badly! My back is broken!" Wood and Campbell caught him and carried him down to the stone kraal. Wood then started back up, leading his horse, but a shot struck it and killed it, and when he regained the kraal he found that Lloyd had died. Wood now ordered Weatherley to take the Border Horse up to clear the trail, but the men balked again. Campbell then picked up Lysons and four privates from Wood's escort and started up the trail in single file, making for a cave from which several Zulus were firing. The narrow passage was only two feet wide between towering rock walls, and as Campbell plunged into the mouth of the cave, a Zulu fired a shot straight into his forehead, killing him instantly. Undaunted, Lysons and Private Edmun Fowler sprang over his body, driving the Zulus into the recesses of the mountain. Lysons then held the mouth of the cave while the others dragged Campbell's body back to the kraal…'High drama on Hlobane Mountain on 29 March 1879; The Washing of the Spears by Donald R. Morris, refersThe outstanding South Africa Medal awarded to Mr. L. Lloyd, Evelyn's Wood's interpreter, who - in one of the most contentious episodes of the conflict - was mortally wounded in the disastrous action at Hlobane on 29 March 1879South Africa 1877-79, 1 clasp, 1879 (L. Lloyd, Esq., Interpreter), suspension claw tightened, minor contact wear, very fineLlewelyn Lloyd was a prominent casualty in the disastrous action fought at Hlobane Mountain on 28 March 1879, his death being indelibly linked to that of Captain Hon. R. G. E. Campbell of the Coldstream Guards, as outlined in Colonel Evelyn Wood's much quoted despatch to Lord Chelmsford. It was an episode in which incompetence played its role, amidst charges of cowardice, and has accordingly remained the subject of ongoing debate.In fact, no history of the Zulu War would be complete without mention of this contentious chapter, some historians claiming that Wood (later Field Marshal Sir Evelyn Wood, V.C., G.C.B., G.C.M.G.) momentarily lost the plot.An excellent account of events may be found in John Young's Horror at the Devil's Pass - The Battle of Hlobane, 28 March 1879, from which the following extract has been taken:'…Dawn broke and a new horror became apparent. The Zulus were behind prepared barricades and concealed within caves that riddled the mountain, awaiting the assault. From behind their positions, the Zulus opened fire on the scaling troops. Two officers of the Frontier Light Horse, Lieutenants Otto von Stietencron and George Williams, fell dead, two troopers also fell to the fire.Wood and his escort rode to the sound of the firing. Just below the summit of the mountain plateau they chanced upon Lieutenant-Colonel Frederick Augustus Weatherley and his Border Lancers. Weatherley's unit should have been with Buller, but during the storm they had become separated and now lagged behind. Wood spied a Zulu rifleman level his gun in his direction and he expressed his contempt of the Zulu marksmanship. The Zulu fired, and his bullet found its mark, shattering the spine of Mr. Llewelyn Lloyd, Wood's Political Assistant and his interpreter, who was at Wood's side. Wood attempted to lift the mortally wounded man, but stumbled under the weight. Captain the Honourable Ronald Campbell, Coldstream Guards, Wood's chief staff officer, came to his aid and carried the dying Lloyd out of the line of fire. Again a Zulu fired at Wood, killing his lead mount. The horse fell against Wood, and caused him to stumble.A gasp went up from his men, fearing their commander wounded. Wood shouted a reassurance that he was not hit, and picking himself up, he made his way downhill to the troops' position. Angered at being pinned-down, Wood ordered Lieutenant-Colonel Weatherley to assault the position from where the fire was coming. Weatherley in turn, addressed his men, ordering them forward, but only Lieutenant J. Pool and Sub-Lieutenant H. W. Parminter responded to the command. The remainder of the Border Horse refused to assault the position, saying that it was unassailable. Captain Campbell was horrified; this was tantamount to mutiny - if not cowardice.Campbell was of ennobled birth, the son of the 2nd Earl Cawdor. Such behaviour was unheard of within the class to which he belonged. Uttering his contempt of the fainthearted volunteers, he sprang forward towards the foe, supported by Second-Lieutenant Henry Lysons, 90th Light Infantry and four mounted infantrymen of Wood's personal escort, also drawn from the 90th. The small party advanced in a determined manner, clambering over boulders and through crevices, which led to the Zulu position. The path was so narrow that the advance could only be made in single file. Campbell gained the mouth of the cave first, only to be shot in the head at point-blank. Undeterred, Lysons and Private Edmund Fowler carried the position, forcing the Zulus to withdraw into a series of subterranean passages and, with Lysons and Fowler in pursuit, they killed all those who offered resistance, and put the others to flight.With Lysons covering the cave mouth, Campbell's body was brought down and placed alongside Lloyd, who had succumbed to his wound. Fearful of the bodies being mutilated, Wood decided to bury them on the field. Being the son of a clergyman, he wished to conduct a proper burial service, only to realise that his service book was still in the wallets of his saddle on his dead mount. He ordered his bugler, Alexander Walkinshaw, to recover the prayer book. Walkinshaw, whom Wood described as "one of the bravest men in the Army," calmly strode up, under heavy fire and recovered not only the prayer book but also the entire saddle.Wood had the two bodies removed some three hundred yards downhill, to where the soil was less rocky and the Zulus of Wood's escort dug the grave with their spears, under the watchful eye of Prince Mthonga. Their task completed, Wood committed the two bodies to the ground, reading an abridged version of the burial service from a prayer book which belonged to Captain Campbell's wife, who was the daughter of the Bishop of Rochester, Kent…'Lieutenant Henry Lysons and Private Edmund Fowler, both of the 90th Regiment, were awarded the Victoria Cross.PostscriptOn 21 May 1880, Mrs. Campbell was taken to Hlobane where a headstone was placed on the grave of her husband and Llewelyn Lloyd. Some of the party, including Empress Eugenie, actually climbed up the Devil's Pass to the summit. Finally, they reached the site where the Prince Imperial was killed. Another memorial stone was laid and the empress planted cuttings of a tree she had brought from the family estate at Camden Place in Chislehurst. The grief-stricken party returned to England by the end of July.… 25001 SALEROOM NOTICE:Clasp an old tailors copy, naming details as described. The estimate is revised to £6,000-8,000.

A good 'Air Gunner's' D.F.M. group of five awarded to Flight Sergeant A. Massey, No. 51 Squadron, Royal Air Force, who served in multiple air combats, certainly downing an Me109Distinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. (649458 F/Sgt. A. Massey. R.A.F.); 1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, light contact marks, very fine (5)D.F.M. London Gazette 13 October 1944, the original recommendation states:'Flight Sergeant Massey has completed 29 sorties against the enemy, 21 of these against heavily defended targets in Germany. On several occasions, his aircraft has suffered damage and at all times his coolness and courage in the face of the enemy fire has been an inspiration to his crew. He has had several combats with enemy fighters and on one occasion destroyed an ME109. His devotion to duty at all times set a good example to his fellow gunners and as a crew member, he inspire[d] great confidence. This NCO is recommended for the award of the DFM.'Allan Massey was serving with No. 51 Squadron in 1943, operating out of R.A.F. Snaith as part of No. 4 Group. He was with them on 27 August when his aircraft was attacked by a JU88, they managed to lose him in the clouds but were hit by flak on the return journey. Another dramatic incident occurred in early August 1943 when the rear turret gunner collapsed and had to be returned to base for medical treatment.The mission for which Norcross was awarded his D.F.C. occurred on 30 August, in an attack over Muchen-Gladback. The Squadron Operations Book adds further details:'10 miles NNE Antwerp. Mid Upper gunner saw twin engine aircraft on port side coming in towards Halifax. Mid Upper Gunner fired about 25 rounds, and enemy aircraft dived to starboard and was lost to sight.'His station commander added his recommendation for the award of the D.F.M., stating:'Flight Sergeant Massey is a thoroughly competent and reliable Air Gunner and by his skill and determination has contributed to the success of his crew and to the safe completion of an operational tour. His ability and spirit have been a fine example to his unit. Strongly recommended for the award of the D.F.M.'…

China 1842 (E. Pitman, Lieutenant, 55th Regiment Foot.), fitted with replacement silver clip and swivel suspension, pitting, very fineEdmund Pitman was born circa 1820, the son of Major Pitman of Dunchideock House, Devon. Young Pitman joined the 55th as an Ensign in January 1837, he served as a Lieutenant in the First Opium War with the 55th (Westmoreland) Regiment of Foot, who saw a great deal of action in that campaign. Deployed to China in 1841, they participated in the Battle of Amoy in August of that year and were the first to land from the boats at the disembarkation and subsequent capture of Chusan that October. During this action, the 55th assaulted Guards Hill under heavy fire but successfully took the position before going on to capture the heights above Tinghai; they then planted their Regimental Colours on the walls of the city.On 10 October the regiment participated in the Battle of Chinhai, forming the garrison of that city until the following year when they played yet another active part in the battles of Chapu and Chinkiang - remaining in garrison of the latter until the Treaty of Nanking was signed on 29 August 1842. The 55th subsequently received the battle honour "China" and a dragon badge was added to their Regimental Colour.Pitman was presented to Queen Victoria by Colonel Sir J. H. Schoedde in May 1845 and was promoted Captain. Latterly serving as Adjutant of the 1st Devon Militia, he died at Heavitree, Exeter in January 1882.…

Military General Service 1793-1814, 1 clasp, Java (Samuel Whittle, 22nd Light Dragoons.), traces of brooch mounting at 3 and 9 o'clock respectively, suspension sometime re-affixed, some edge bruising and contact marks, otherwise very fineWhittle is one of only 54 members of the cavalry with entitlement to a clasp for Java.Samuel Whittle was born in Whitley, Chester circa 1778 and made his living as a hatter prior to his enlistment with the 22nd Regiment of Light Dragoons on 1 July 1795 upon reaching eighteen years of age. Whittle was to embark on what would be a twenty-four-year career with the Colours, twenty-one of which were to be spent serving abroad in the East Indies.The 22nd Light Dragoons were renumbered from the 25th Dragoons in 1794, which had been raised by Francis Edward Gwyn that same year for service in India. Whittle, therefore, joined the Regiment whilst it was still in its infancy and was likely first embarked to India with the rest of his unit to serve in the Anglo-Mysore War in 1799. Whittle would remain in the region for the next two decades. The conflict in Mysore saw the 22nd Light Dragoons fight with distinction at the Battle of Seringapatam, which was awarded to them as a battle honour.During the Napoleonic Wars, Whittle and his Regiment took an active role in the British effort to seize Java from Franco-Dutch forces in 1811. They landed on 4 August and the next day a small number escorted Colonel Robert Gillespie to the capital of Batavia. They reached the undefended city on 8 August, which immediately surrendered to Gillespie and his men. They next advanced on Dutch General Janssens stronghold at Weltervreeden, which fell to a British attack on 10 August. The British sustained under 100 losses while the enemy lost over 300 men. The nature of the island made the deployment of cavalry difficult, however after the action at Weltervreeden the 22nd were utilised in their traditional role of pursuing the retreating enemy. Some of the Regiment may have taken part in the fighting dismounted, as Gillespie's Brigade Orders refer to:'I have also to thank Captain Gall of the Body-guard, Lieutenant Dudley of the dismounted dragoons twenty-second regiment, and Captains Smithwayte and M'Craith of the Madras pioneers, for their support in the affair.'Lieutenant Dudley's Dragoons also participated in the siege of Fort Cornelis which took place later that month. The column was guided into position by a Franco-Dutch deserter who rode at their head with Serjeant Smith of the 22nd, capturing two enemy redoubts in the surprise attack after a fierce battle, at which the critical moment Gillespie led the mounted detachment of the 22nd after the fleeing enemy. The Batavians rallied several more times prolonging the conflict, however in the end most of the force was cut off and the British seized the fort on 25 August. The British sustained 630 casualties, with the 22nd suffering 6 dead and 17 wounded. The wounded included the commander of the dismounted detachment, Lieutenant Dudley, who was again 'mentioned' although this time by the Adjutant General. The Battle of Cornelis ended effective resistance in Java, though the stubborn resistance of General Janssens carried on into September.The 22nd remained in Java until 1813, after which Muster Lists indicate that they served in Bangalore, India. British occupation of the island came to an end in 1814 when Java was returned to the newly independent Netherlands. Whittle was promoted Corporal in India on 22 February 1814 and served in this capacity with John Floyd Patterson's troop. The Regiment remained there and as such did not fight at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815.Whittle was at some stage advanced Serjeant, and served as such at the Battle of Maheidpoor in Captain Vernon's troop on 21 December 1817. This battle saw a decisive British victory over the Marathas, resulting in the conclusion of the Anglo-Maratha War and the cession of much territory to the British, which were incorporated into the British Raj. It was just a few years after the engagement at Maheidpoor that Whittle's time in the service finally came to an end. He was discharged in India in consequence of 'being worn out by length of service & unable to ride' on 25 August 1819. While this poor state of health is certainly understandable given his twenty years in the harsh Indian climate, one wonders if his discharge might have been influenced by his Regiment being disbanded the following year.Whittle is further entitled to an Army of India 1799-1824 Medal with a clasp for Maheidpoor, being one of only 167 Europeans with entitlement to the clasp, 28 of which were awarded to the 22nd Light Dragoons; sold together with copied research including medal rolls.… 25001 SALEROOM NOTICE:Lot is NOT subject to 5% Import Tax. 

A rare Second World War tunneller's 'Gibraltar Key' group of seven awarded to Major D. Taylor, Royal Canadian Engineers, who was subsequently killed in action in Italy in September 19441939-45 Star; Italy Star; Canadian Voluntary Service Medal 1939-45, with overseas clasp; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, silver, in their boxes of issue, together with Canadian Memorial Crosses, G.VI.R. (2), silver, both officially inscribed 'Major D. Taylor' and in their cases of issue, and Royal Canadian Engineers' Gibraltar Key award 1941-42, for use as a watch fob, the reverse officially engraved, 'Major D. Taylor', silver, by B. M. & Co., in its case of issue, extremely fine (8)Around 325 Gibraltar Key awards were issued to Canadian Engineers for their drilling and tunnelling work on the Rock during the last war, few of which appear to have survived. Struck in silver by the Wartime Mining Association in Canada - and based on a design by Sapper R. J. Cunningham, No. 2 Tunnelling Company, R.C.E. - the first awards were presented by General A. G. L. McNaughton, a fellow Canadian, at a special ceremony held on 27 March 1943.David Taylor was born in Surbiton, Surrey on 28 October 1911 but was working as a bank teller in Canada by the outbreak of hostilities. Enlisting in the Royal Canadian Engineers in Toronto in January 1940, direct from an appointment in the Militia, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant and embarked for the U.K.The RockIn November 1940, at the head of No. 1 Tunnelling Company, R.C.E. - a detachment of four officers and 99 men - Taylor arrived for duties in Gibraltar, the first Canadian troops to ever be stationed on the Rock. His sappers were to use their special skills in diamond drilling and hard-rock mining in close co-operation with the Royal Engineers, to develop and perfect the subterranean works required to bolster the Rock's defences. They arrived with 219 cases of equipment and were soon at work, the arrival of No. 2 Tunnelling Company in March 1941 adding to the valuable work undertaken by the Canadians.That work is described at length in Major George F. G. Stanley's article Canadian Tunnellers at Gibraltar, which was published in the Canadian Geographical Journal in June 1944, and a copy of which is included. But by way of eye-opening statistics, it is said that excavation work in Gibraltar in the last war amounted to shifting 1,087,905 cubic yards of rock and rubble.ItalyTaylor finally departed Gibraltar for the U.K. in early 1942, where he was posted to the Shetlands to carry out work on an old iron mine near Sollum. Having then been advanced to Major at the year's end, and taken command of No. 1 Tunnelling Company, he was embarked for Naples, Italy in January 1944.The unit then moved to Bianchi to help construct an underground Command Centre, where it was re-titled No. 1 Drilling Company, R.C.E., followed by further construction work at Taranto, Cassino and elsewhere. Tragically, however, as related in the pages of The History of the Corps of Royal Canadian Engineers, Taylor met his end in the course of subsequent operations:'On 1 September [1944] Major D. Taylor was killed while making too early a reconnaissance in Pesaro, on the Polish front. Company Sergeant-Major S. Dempster lost his life at the same time. Captain J. M. Thompson was driving their jeep; while he turned it around, Taylor and Dempster went to make a last check of the area before returning to camp and ran into an ambush. Thompson managed to avoid capture and escaped to take over command as Major. It had been understood that the town was clear of enemy and they had passed through the Polish troops on the outskirts without receiving any information to the contrary.'Taylor, who left a widow, was buried in Ancona Military Cemetery; sold with copied research, including a statement of services that credits him with a mention in despatches.…

The 'St. Pancras bombing 1941' B.E.M. awarded to Constable H. J. Smith, Police War Reserve, 'N' Division, Metropolitan Police who, whilst off duty, saw a women trapped in her home by a parachute mineFinding a ladder he climbed the crumbling, bomb damaged building, dug her free and pulled her to safety, all while the bombs continued around him, his original recommendation was for the George Medal, later downgradedBritish Empire Medal, Civil Division, G.VI.R. (Henry John Smith), officially engraved naming on a pre-prepared background, light edge wear, very fineB.E.M. London Gazette 12 September 1941, the original citation states:'A bomb damaged a building, the remains of which were liable to collapse. War Reserve Constable Smith obtained a ladder, climbed to the top of it and then hauled himself on to a balcony which went round to the first floor. He climbed through a window and entered a room where he found a woman buried up to the neck in rubble. He began to dig with his hands although debris was falling and further bombs were dropped in the neighbourhood. Smith eventually released the victim and carried her to safety.'Henry John Smith worked as a packer in civilian life and was living at 41 Goldington Buildings, St. Pancras during the Second World War. He volunteered for the Police War Reserve and was posted to 'N' Division, Metropolitan Police. The original recommendation for his award was for the George Medal however it was downgraded to the B.E.M., the text goes into further detail on the events of 17 April 1941:'On 17th April 1941 at about 3.15 a.m. a parachute mine fell in Pancras Square, Platt Street, N.W.1., causing widespread devastation to the surrounding property including a very large block of flats and the "Star" P.H. at the corner of Platt Street and Goldington Street.War Reserve Smith, who was off duty but lived in the vicinity had returned from assisting at another incident at St. Pancras Hospital when he saw a parachute mine descending in the vicinity of Somers Town Police Station. He immediately went towards Pancras Square and while on his way the mine exploded. On arriving at the scene he rendered assistance, in the course of which he rescued a pregnant woman, and then heard cries for help coming from the first floor of the public house.This building appeared to be in imminent danger of collapse and part of it had to be pulled down next day, but War Reserve obtained a ladder (which was too short) climbed to the top of it and then hauled himself on to a balcony which went round the first floor. He climbed through a window and entered a room where he found a woman buried up to the neck in rubble and debris. He began to extricate the woman with his hands although pieces of ceilings and brickwork were falling and further bombs were still coming down in the neighbourhood.The woman was eventually released and carried to the window. War Reserve Smith then shouted to another police officer to fetch a longer ladder and when this arrived he put the woman over his shoulder and descended to the ground. She had by this time fainted.With the assistance of the woman's brother-in-law he took her to a Rest Centre and then returned to the scene of the incident and rendered what further assistance he could until 5.15 a.m. when he returned home, cleaned himself and reported for duty at 5.45 a.m. at Somers Town Police Station.Although War Reserve Smith was due to parade for duty at 5.45 a.m. the same morning he voluntarily rendered assistance at various incidents during the night. He attended a major incident at St. Pancras Hospital and then generally assisted at Pancras Square, in the course of which he rescued the two women. It is likely that had it not been for the efforts of this War Reserve the second women would have been buried by debris.The conduct of War Reserve Smith, who was off duty, was meritorious and his conduct was of a very high order.The acting Superintendent of the Division recommends War Reserve Smith for an award or mention in the London Gazette. The Deputy Assistant Commissioner of the District considers his conduct worthy of high award and recommends the award of the George Medal.'Whilst impressive this recommendation does little to underline the danger of the situation and can be better outlined by the testimony of the witnesses, firstly the victim of the bomb, Mrs. Constance E Keevil, who states:'My house partially collapsed, and as I attempted to leave my office the door collapsed on me, pinning me in the corner with the door, by this time the ceiling and walls were collapsing on me, burying me in the debris up to my shoulders. I was completely helpless, and shouted for help; this was answered by a man's voice, telling me to wait; shortly afterwards a policeman entered my office through the balcony window, he started to clear the debris off me with his hands, repeatedly telling me to keep calm. All the time he was doing this masonry was falling in patches and was dangerous to us both. He eventually cleared me of the debris, took me to the window and shouted for someone to bring a longer ladder, still doing his best to keep me calm, which I might say was a great effort on his part. The raid was still very heavy; the next I remember was being thrown over the P.C.'s shoulder and carried down the ladder when I completely collapsed.'P.C. Richardson adds his verdict:'The air raid was still in progress and of a severe character; the public house was in a very bad condition and liable to collapse further.In my opinion The War Reserve acted with great promptitude and courage, and at great personal danger considering all the circumstances of the night.'Sold together with copied research.…

South Africa 1877-79, 1 clasp, 1879 (1700. Gunr. E. James. 6th Bde. R.A.), polished and worn with pride, fineServed with M Battery, 6th Brigade, who had the Prince Imperial attached to them for about a month whilst at Cato's Manor in the Spring of 1879.…

Wodehouse True Blues53 Medals issued to this unit, 15 of them with clasp '1877-8'.'The gallant Captain Spillman (Edward) who commanded a troop of Wodehouse Volunteers, a genial gentleman, and one of the very best if not the crack shot of the colony is dead.'Natal Witness, 20 July 1880, refersThe South Africa Medal awarded to Captain E. Spillman, Wodehouse True Blues, who commanded his unit in the 9th Xhosa WarSouth Africa 1877-79, 1 clasp, 1877-8 (Capt. E. Spillman. Wodehouse True Blues.), a later issue with engraved naming in upright serif capitals, very fineEdward Spillman commanded the unit during the 9th Xhosa War, he passed over command to Cpatain Dugmore for the 1879 campaign.…

A scarce 'Saboteurs' campaign group of five awarded to Sergeant F. Tibbets, 4/1 Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment, Royal Artillery, who was taken prisoner of war during the Fall of Kos and was later punished for sabotaging Focke-Wulf engines during his work detail1939-45 Star; Africa Star; War Medal 1939-45; Korea 1950-53 (1438983 Sgt. F. Tibbets. R.A.); U.N. Korea 1950-54, light pitting, very fine (5)Frank Tibbets was a native of Birmingham, born on 26 February 1918 and enlisted in March 1939, listing his address as 3 Stewart Road, Blackheath, Birmingham. Seeing service in North Africa he notably received training from his section officer on escape, evasion and how to behave after capture. Later Tibbets was part of the British forces posted to the Island of Kos in October 1943 when their Italian Garrisons joined the Allies.Unfortunately for the British Garrison there the Germans were able to respond quickly, they hammered the British airfields, preventing them from resupplying. Paratroopers were landed in bulk and, unable to resupply, the British were pushed back to the town of Kos itself, eventually being forced to surrender.Tibbetts went in the bag on 7 October 1943, being initially held at Mooseburg before being transferred to Mullberg in November. From there he joined a work camp at Zwickau and was set to coal mining later being set to paper making at Crossen in March 1944. Returning to Zwickau after this he gained access to a number of Focke Wolfe Engines in August 1944, his Liberation Questionnaire goes into detail stating:'At Zwickau, during the month of August 1944 I pushed into the river Mulde [Zwickauer Mulde] 28 twenty eight [SIC] Focke Wolfe 190 aeroplane engines and lots of spares for same.'He notes for this that he was punished with 14 days of detention and was repatriated, eventually being posted to the Reserve in July 1946. Re-joining in September 1950 he embarked for Korea on 11 October 1950 with 8/11 Light Anti-Aircraft Battery. Posted to a Depot on 11 December 1951, this was the last active service Tibbets was to see; sold together with copied research.Further entitled to an Italy Star, as commonly seen with groups to men stationed in the Aegean.…

The Zulu War Medal awarded to Private W. Keall, 2nd Battalion, 24th Foot, who was discharged on account of injuries suffered in a fall from the horse of his master in August 1879 whilst on campaign - that master was one 'Major Bromhead'South Africa 1877-79, 1 clasp, 1877-8-9 (1614. Pte. W. Keall. 2-24th. Foot.), toned, good very fineWilliam Keall was born at Welton, Lincolnshire circa 1841 and joined the 24th Foot in October 1864. He served with the 2nd Battalion during the Zulu War and was groom to 'Major Bromhead' - either C. J. Bromhead D.C.M. or Gonville Bromhead V.C., of Rorke's Drift fame.His Service Records note the injuries which caused his discharge:'Fracture of right radius - on the 4th of August 1879, when on the march in Zululand he fell from a horse belonging to Major Bromhead of his Regt., to whom he was groom & sustained the fracture of right arm.'At that time both of the famed Bromhead brothers held the rank of Major in the unit and thus would both have had a horse to their name. Keall was discharged on account of the injury with a pension of 7d per day for life.…

The 2-clasp Naval General Service Medal awarded to Admiral Alexander Montgomerie, Royal Navy, who served at sea for almost twenty years and participated in a number of fiercly-fought actions, not least at Barque island; the subsequent capture of Guadeloupe; and at Rugen island where he successfully defended a fort against French infantry assaultsNaval General Service 1793-1840, 2 clasps, Anse La Barque 18 Decr 1809, Guadaloupe (Alexr. Montgomerie, Lieut. R.N.), good very fineProvenance:Sotheby's, March 1995.Colin Message Collection, August 1999.Jason Pilalas Collection, July 2024.Alexander Montgomerie, of an old Scottish family, was born at Dreghorn, Ayrshire, Scotland on 30 July 1790. Joining the Royal Navy at the tender age of 12 on 27 June 1802, he was initially appointed a First-Class Volunteer aboard the 16-gun sloop H.M.S. Hazard, with which he saw brief service in the English Channel before spending the next six years with both the 44-gun frigate H.M.S. Argo and the 74-gun H.M.S. Tigre, as a member of their Midshipman's berth. With Argo (under the command of Captain Benjamin Hallowell) young Montgomerie saw his first taste of action, as this vessel participated in the captures of St. Lucia and Tobago - the former earned Hallowell and his men a very favourable 'Mention', with Admiral Hood stating: 'To Captain Hallowell's Merit it is impossible for me to give additional Encomium, as it is so generally known; but I must beg Leave to say, on this expedition, his Activity could not be exceeded; and by his friendly Advice I have obtained the most effectual Aid to this Service, for which he has been a Volunteer, and, after the final Disembarkation, proceeded on with the Seamen to co-operate with the Army.' (London Gazette, 26 July 1803, refers).When Hallowell was appointed to command the Tigre, Montgomerie followed him and this ship was part of Admiral Lord Nelson's fleet in the great hunt for the combined Franco-Spanish fleet prior to the Battle of Trafalgar on 21 October 1805. Tigre, unfortunately, missed the battle due to being away at Gibraltar to take on water and escort convoys, but subsequently participated in the operations off Egypt in 1807: Montgomerie must have been aboard when Tigre captured two Ottoman frigates (the Uri Bahar and Uri Nasard) and his subsequent biography states he was then employed with 'much boat service' on Lake Mareotis - scene of British landings against French, Ottoman, and Albanian troops.In September 1809, Midshipman Montgomerie passed his Lieutenant's examination and was thence sent (though still as Midshipman) to the 36-gun frigate H.M.S. Orpheus, before shortly afterwards removing to the 74-gun H.M.S. Sceptre - the ship with which he was to earn the clasps to his Medal. Sceptre, commanded by Captain Samuel James Ballard, was part of a force ordered to capture the French-held island of Guadeloupe. On 18 December 1809, a British squadron (including Sceptre) attacked two French ships (the Loire and Seine, variously described as 'frigates' or 'flutes') anchored at Anse a la Barque and protected by batteries of artillery ashore. Notwithstanding a spirited defence, in fairly short order both French vessels had been dismasted and surrendered - though they were subsequently abandoned, caught fire, and blew up. The attack was under the overall command of Captain Hugh Cameron of H.M.S. Hazard, and after destroying the Loire and Seine the British force next landed ashore to silence the batteries: this objective was also achieved but in the moment of victory Cameron was killed, one report stating that after personally hauling down the French tricolour he wrapped it around his body before being accidentally shot by a British sailor who mistook him for the enemy. It seems likely that Montgomerie played a very active part in this action, as the very next day he was appointed Acting Lieutenant of H.M.S. Freija/Freya, which was confirmed by official commission on 4 May 1810, and during the intervening time also appears to have been equally active in the ships' boats in minor actions against further French shore batteries around Guadeloupe.Returning home, after three months in command of H.M.S. Magnanime on 28 January 1811 he was appointed Lieutenant aboard the 32-gun frigate H.M.S. Aquilon, with which vessel he served until 1814, concluding his time aboard her as First Lieutenant. This period of his career also saw much active service - but rather than the tropical Caribbean, this time in the distinctly cooler North Sea and Baltic in the supression of enemy trade and coastal traffic, and the escorting of British and allied convoys. Though little further information appears immediately available, his service biography states that: 'When in the Baltic in 1812, and engaged with the boats under his orders in an attempt to bring some vessels off from the island of Rugen, he greatly distinguished himself by his conduct in capturing a temporary fort occupied by a superior number of troops, whom, on their being reinforced and endeavouring to recover their loss, he several times repulsed.' (A Naval Biographical Dictionary - Montgomerie, Alexander, W.R. O'Byrne, p.774, refers).Promoted Commander on 7 June 1814 on his return from the South America station, despite theoretical appointment to H.M.S. Racoon she was off the coast of Brazil and he never joined her. With the conclusion of the Napoleonic Wars Montgomerie had to wait until 21 March 1818 for his next command - the 18-gun brig-sloop H.M.S. Confiance, which position he held for two years until moving in July 1820 to the 26-gun H.M.S. Sapphire as Acting-Captain. This was a fortuitous change as, two years later, Confiance was wrecked off Ireland with the loss of the entire crew. Returning home in September 1821, he does not appear to have received another seagoing appointment but nevertheless remained on the Active List until his official (and well-earned) retirement on 1 October 1856.By virtue of longevity, Montgomerie moved slowly up the seniority list; promoted Rear-Admiral in 1852, then Vice-Admiral in 1857, he reached the rank of Admiral on 27 April 1863. Admiral Alexander Montgomerie appears to have remained a bachelor throughout his life and died in January 1864 at Skelmorlie, Ayrshire, not far from where he was born 73 years earlier.Sold together with a small quantity of copied research.…

Four: Private J. Wright, Seaforth Highlanders and Imperial Yeomanry, who managed to re-enlist despite having been discharged unfitIndia General Service 1895-1908, 1 clasp, Relief of Chitral 1895 (3647 Pte. J. Wright 2nd Bn. Seaforth Highld.); Queen's Sudan 1896-98 (3647. Pte. J. Wright. 1/Sea:Hrs.); Queen's South Africa 1899-1902, 4 clasps, Cape Colony, Orange Free State, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 (32976 Pte. J. Wright. 71st Coy. Imp:Yeo:); Khedive's Sudan 1896-1908, 1 clasp, Khartoum (3647 Pte. J. Wright 1st Sea. Highrs.), contact marks, some edge bruising, nearly very fine (4)James Wright was born in London around 1874 and worked as a labourer prior to enlisting with the Seaforth Highlanders in London on 25 June 1891, just one month after his eighteenth birthday. After serving for the first few years at home, Wright was posted to the East Indies in December 1893 with the 2nd Battalion. There, he participated in the Relief of Chitral in India where he continued to serve for a number of years before being stationed directly to Malta in January 1897. After a few months in Malta, Wright was sent to Crete in April to participate in the occupation of the island. He remained there until November, when he was again posted to Malta and served there until March 1898, when he was sent to Egypt with the 1st Battalion. After serving in the Nile expedition of 1898, Wright finally returned home to England in July 1899 after his several years of service abroad. Back home, Wright was medically examined at Fort George and found to be unfit for active service in South Africa and was subsequently discharged from the Seaforth Highlanders on 16 February 1900. Details as to his condition are not given, however, his medical record notes several ongoing bouts of ague and gonorrhoea, caused by the climate and contagion. It is possible that these illnesses contributed to his deteriorated condition. Wright appears to have returned to London and worked as a fitter following his discharge, though he was not away from the Army for long. Now 26 years of age, he enlisted for service with the Imperial Yeomanry at Cockspur Street, London, on 11 March 1901. His attestation papers reflect that Wright did reveal his eight years of service with the Seaforth Highlanders, though citing 'time expired' as the reason for discharge. He was posted to the 71st Company and shipped to South Africa, where he served until his discharge on 14 July 1902 at Elandsfontein in South Africa. He was apparently discharged at his own request to take up a civil engagement in Cape Colony, where he intended to reside thereafter. Wright does not appear to have attempted to re-enlist for third time; sold together with copied service records.…