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Beaufort Rangers Cavalry VolunteersWith their HQ at Fort Beaufort and under the command of Captain Hall, who was succeeded by Captain Richards in February 1878, the unit were armed with carbines and short rifles. 10 men left for the front in October 1877 with the remainder suffering through the drought and regular patrols and ammunition escorts. Some of their number went on operations in the Perie Bush during the campaign.Approximately 62 Medals issued to the unit, 60 of them with clasp '1877-8'.South Africa 1877-79, 1 clasp, 1877-8 (Tpr. E. Dyer. Beaufort R. C. Vol:), very fine…

Six: Battery Sergeant-Major W Bell, Royal Artillery, one of the few men of 10th Mountain Battery who evaded capture at Nicholson’s Nek and got back into Ladysmith on 30 October 1899, suffering a wound to the fingers of his right handEgypt and Sudan 1882-89, undated reverse, no clasp (33729 Driv: W. Bell. 2/1. So: Ir: Div: R.A.; Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 4 clasps, Defence of Ladysmith, Orange Free State, Laing’s Nek, Belfast (33729 Sgt. W. Bell, 10th M.B., R.G.A.); King’s South Africa 1901-02, 2 clasps, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 (33729 Serjt. W. Bell, R.G.A.); Army L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue (33729 Sjt. W. Bell. R.H.A.) official correction to unit; Army Meritorious Service Medal, G.V.R., 3rd issue (Sjt. W. Bell. R.A.); Khedive’s Star 1884-6, unnamed, mounted court-style, the Egypt pair with contact pitting, therefore good fine, otherwise very fine and better (6)William Bell was born at Brighton, Sussex in 1853 and attested on 17 July 1882. Joining the 2/1st South Irish Division he saw service with them in Egypt and was posted to 10th Mountain Battery on 1 July 1889. Joining this unit in South Africa before the Anglo-Boer War he was advanced Sergeant there on 18 January 1896.He was still present in Natal on the outbreak of the Anglo-Boer War. As the war got underway the British withdrew their forces back towards Ladysmith with the Boer's in hot pursuit. General White decided to try and halt the Boer advance before they reached the town with a daring night march which would take them to positions above the Boer's allowing them a dawn assault. The British had three main targets, Farquhar's Farm, Pepworth Hill and- the farthest position- Nicholson's Nek.The 10th Mountain Battery was part of Colonel Carleton's column aimed at Nicholson's Nek, supported by an enormous mule train carrying their weapons and ammunition. At some stage during the march a loud noise startled the mules and they stampeded, carrying all the equipment and some of the gunners off.Carleton continued his march and made the Nek however in the dark his men set up in the wrong place. When dawn came they found themselves on a plateau overlooked by a number of Boer positions and worse yet, without much of their artillery. Swiftly surrounded by the Boer commandos large numbers of the British were taken prisoner. Around 80 men managed to escape, including Bell, but 29 officers, 898 men and 4 Mountain Guns were taken.Bell's service papers note a wound to the fingers of his right hand however no date is given to confirm that it occurred during his escape from the trap of Nicholson's Nek. He served throughout the Defence of Ladysmith and for the rest of the war, being posted to 107th Company, Royal Garrison Artillery in 1903. Discharged later that same year he returned to service at Southampton on 2 September 1914.Serving with a reserve Brigade of the Royal Garrison Artillery he was discharged in July 1918 having earned no medals for his efforts; sold together with copied research.… 25001 SALEROOM NOTICE:Lot is NOT subject to 5% Import Tax. 

A 'Mesopotamia 1917' D.C.M. group of four to Private A. H. Price, North Staffordshire Regiment,Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (8586 Pte A. H. Price. 7/N. Staff: R.); 1914-15 Star (11575 Pte A. H. Price. N. Staff: R.); British War and Victory Medals (11575 Pte. A. H. Price. N. Staff. R.), mounted as worn, light contact marks and polishing, otherwise very fine (4)D.C.M. London Gazette 29 August 1917, the original recommendation states:'For conspicuous gallantry in action. Being the only man left of a gun team except the No.1, he kept the gun supplied with ammunition all day. He was the last to leave the enemy's trench, bringing back the gun and tripod.'Albert H. Price is noted upon his M.I.C. as entering the war at Gallipoli prior to 1 January 1916, serving with the 7th Battalion of the North Staffordshire Regiment. This unit left Avonmouth on 19 June 1915 first landing in Alexandria before moving to Mudros.They landed on Cape Helles between 6-16 July 1915 to relieve the 29th Division, returning to Mudros at the end of July. The entire Division landed at ANZAC Cove between 3-5 August 1915 and were in action at the Battle of Sari Bair, Russell's Top and Hill 60. Soon afterwards they transferred from ANZAC to Suvla Bay, remaining there until the sector was evacuated on 19-20 December 1915. They moved to the Helles bridgehead having been rested for a week. They were then in action during the last Turkish attacks at Helles on 7 January 1916 and were evacuated between 8-9 January.The Division concentrated at Port Said, holding forward posts in the Suez Canal defences. Posted to Mesopotamia on 12 February 1916, they joined the force being assembled near Sheikh Sa'ad for the relief of the besieged garrison at Kut al Amara. Joining Tigris Corps on 27 March they were in action in the unsuccessful attempts to relieve Kut and the Battle of Kut al Amara. They saw further fighting at the capture of the Hai Salient, the capture of Dahra Bend and the Passage of the Diyala, in the pursuit of the enemy towards Baghdad.Units of the Division were the first troops to enter Baghdad when it fell on 11 March 1917; it was around this time that Price received his award. The Division then joined 'Marshall's Column' and pushed north across Iraq, fighting at Delli Abbas, Duqma, Nahr Kalis, crossing the Adhaim on 18 April and engaging again at Shatt al Adhaim. Later in the year they were twice action at Jabal Hamrin and at Tuz Khurmatli the following April. By 28 May 1918 the Divisional Headquarters had moved to Dawalib and remained there until the end of the war, enduring extreme summer temperatures. The 39th Brigade was detached and joined the North Persia Force in July 1918 which was in Transcaspia, Russia by October 1918.Sold together with a card mounted studio photograph of him in uniform with two other colleagues - his D.C.M. riband clearly visible - the photograph taken by a studio 'George' in Baku, the reverse of this marked in coloured pencil 'From Albert To Mrs E. Price, 80 Copland St, Stoke, Staff, England'; together with a further photograph of him with young recruits c.1922/24 wearing the mounted group sold here.…

The 'Capture of the Canale Bianca 1945' M.M. group of six awarded to Lance Corporal J. Holton, 9th Battalion, Royal Fusiliers, who charged forward under heavy fire and swept a Bridge with his Bren gun, allowing the rest of his unit to capture the vital crossing point even as it was rigged for demolitionMilitary Medal, G.VI.R. (3976638. L/Cpl. J. Holton. R. Fus.), the number officially corrected; 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, slight contact marks, very fine (6)M.M. London Gazette 13 December 1945, the original recommendation states:'L/C. Holton has been conspicuous in his conduct in action during the period of the battles of the month of April.On one occasion, when a Fusiliers, L/C. Holton was moving in a section when it came under fire from a strong enemy position on the North bank of the CANALE BIANCA.Although the enemy fire from the North bank was intense and without waiting for orders L/C. Holton ran forward with his bren gun and despite snipers and Spandau fire brought such effective fire to bear on the enemy dug-in positions on the bank that his section were able to storm across and capture intact a vulnerable bridge prepared for demolition and also take the enemy position from the rear.During the whole of this engagement L/C. Holton lay in an exposed position on the floodbank and continued firing his bren gun until all his ammunition was exhausted.This is only one of many instances in which L/C. Holton has shown great gallantry and courage under heavy fire. Since he joined the Bn in January 1944 he has by his devotion to duty been an example and inspiration to his comrades.'Note the Battalion received 33 M.M.s during the Campaign in Italy.John Holton served with the Battalion in North Africa where they were in action for the first time in Tunisia at Enfidaville. They were present for the Salerno Landings and suffered severe losses at Battipaglia, afterwards they were present at the Second Battle of Monte Camino and the crossing of the River Garigliano.In action again during the breaking of the Gothic Line they finished the war in Italy, with Holton winning his award for gallantry during the final pushes of the campaign, most notably the capture of the Canale Bianca. His medals were sent to him at 42 Wellcrope Close, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire; sold together with copied research.…

'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."

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…

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.…

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.…

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…

An extremely rare Edward VII gallantry K.P.M. awarded to Senior Constable J. C. Gates, New South Wales Police Force, the first Australian police officer to be so honoured and one of just four to receive the Edwardian issueIn his gallant pursuit of an armed burglar in North Sydney in April 1909, he exchanged fire until the latter ran out of ammunition, following which he closed with him to make an arrest: in the ensuing struggle, Gates was severely beaten about the head with the burglar's empty revolver, his wounds requiring 23 stitchesKing's Police Medal, E.VII.R., on gallantry riband (J. C. Gates, Sen. Const., N.S. Wales P.), minor edge bruises, good very fineK.P.M. London Gazette 14 January 1910.James Charles Gates was born in Christchurch, New Zealand on 28 February 1885, the son of a distiller. Opting for a new life in Australia when a teenager, he was working as a blacksmith when he enlisted in the New South Wales Police as a Constable.By the time of his K.P.M.-winning exploits in North Sydney, Gates had been advanced to Constable 1st Class but, as reported in various newspapers, he was about to receive accelerated promotion to Senior Constable.The incident in question commenced in Carabella Street, on the heights overlooking Neutral Bay, when an armed burglar broke into the house of Mr. Russell Sinclair in the early morning hours of 1 April 1909. Alerted by a lodger to the burglar's presence, Sinclair gave chase and a violent struggle ensued, in which he was twice shot in the groin. The burglar then made off down the street. Here, then, the moment at which Gates arrived on the scene. A newspaper report takes up the story:'It was after his escape into the streets that the fugitive waged another fight, this time with the constable who arrested him. When Constables McDonald and J. C. Gates, having been informed of that had occurred, proceeded to the locality, Gates saw a man near Milson's Point ferry. He watched the man, and at last he accosted him near Jeffrey Street. The man, who kept his right hand in his pocket, replied that he was on his way to visit someone in Carabella Street. The constable asked him why he kept his hand in his pocket, whereupon the man drew a revolver, fired, and then bolted. The shot missed Gates, who started off after the man, who, while he ran, turned and fired again twice, but still without effect. Constable Gates then fired, and an exchange of shots was kept up. The policeman was not hit but it was afterwards shown that one of his bullets grazed the fugitive's neck, causing a slight flesh wound. Gates, still in pursuit, reached his quarry near Livingstone Lane, and a hand-to-hand fight ensued.The man hit Gates a blow with the butt end of his revolver, and partially stunned him, but the Constable never allowed his prisoner to elude him, and was all the time endeavouring to hand cuff him. The Constable was furiously attacked, blow after blow being delivered about his head with the butt end of the revolver, and at length the man actually got free, but Gates, gallantly refusing to be beaten off, followed him and was joined by a civilian who had been alarmed by the noise of the conflict. Finding the chase hot, the fugitive dashed down some steps into an area in Fitzroy Street, and here he was finally captured, the Constable getting the hand cuffs on him.'The gallant Gates was duly awarded the K.P.M. as well as being advanced to Senior Constable. He was also presented with a Testimonial by the Mayor of North Sydney. His assailant - James Frederick Crook - was sentenced to death, a sentence later commuted to life.Gates died at Ghatswood in the northern district of Sydney in July 1955; sold with copied service record and newspaper reports.…

The Bronze Star group of ten to Indirect Fire Infantryman (Mortarman) W. J. Scovil, 2nd Battalion 8th Cavalry who served as part of 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile)United States of America, Bronze Star with V emblem (William J. Scovil) engraved; Purple Heart; Air Medal, bronze (William J. Scovil) engraved; Commendation Medal with V and oak leaf emblems (William J. Scovil) engraved; Good Conduct Medal (William J. Scovil) engraved; National Defence Service Medal; Vietnam Campaign Medal with 1960- clasp; Vietnam, Campaign Star; Vietnam, Cross of Gallantry with Palm; Vietnam, Civil Action Honour Medal, mounted on a framed display, very fine (10)William James Scovil studied at Ullman High School, Birmingham, Alabama, he received a Diploma and completed his studies in 1968.Joining the United States Army at Montgomery, Alabama, on 8 April 1969 he served at 2nd Battalion 5th Advanced Infantry Training (A.I.T.) Brigade at Fort Polk, Louisiana from 15 June 1969.Posted to United States Army Pacific (USARPAC) on 16 August 1969 he saw service in Vietnam from 6 September 1969 as part of the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) in the role of an Indirect Fire Infantryman (Mortarman) with the 2nd Battalion 8th Cavalry Regiment (Airmobile).1st Air Cavalry Division 1969 -1970In late 1968, the Division moved and set up operations in III Corps at the other end of South Vietnam in late 1968. They were still there when Operation Cheyenne Sabre began in areas northeast of Bien Hoa in February 1969. Their actions here were to prove decisive and by the end of the year the enemy's domination of the northern areas of III Corps had been smashed - thoroughly.When Operation Rock Crusher was launched on 1 May 1970, the First Team was "First into Cambodia" hitting what was previously a Communist sanctuary. President Nixon having given the go-ahead for the surprise mission. They pushed into the 'Fish Hook' region of the border and occupied the towns of Mimot and Snoul whilst troopers scattered the enemy forces, depriving them of much needed supplies and ammunition.The men of the 2nd Brigade found an enemy munitions base that they dubbed 'Rock Island East' on 8 May. The Mission to Cambodia, ending on 30 June, far exceeded all expectations and proved to be one of the most successful operations of the First Team. All aspects of ground and air combat had been utilised and the enemy had lost enough men to yield three NVA divisions and enough weapons to equip two divisions. Further successes included a year's supply of rice and corn seized, uncommonly large quantities of ammunition taken, including 1.5 million rounds for small arms, 200,000 anti-aircraft rounds and 143,000 rockets, mortar rounds and recoilless rifle rounds. As well as 300 trucks, a Porsche sports car and a plush Mercedes Benz sedan.The campaign was to have severe political repercussions in the United States for the Nixon Administration however and pressure was mounting to remove America's fighting men from the Vietnam War. Although there would be further assault operations, the war was beginning to wind down for many troopers.Posted away from Vietnam on 5 September 1970 Scovil began his return to the U.S.A. on 22 September 1970 and on 11 October he was an Indirect Fire Crewman with the 6th Battalion of 32nd Armour based at Fort Knox, Kentucky, where he completed his Army service on 8 April 1971.Sold together an original archive comprising:(i)Combat Infantryman Badge(ii)Air Assault Badge(iii)Valorous Unit Award 1st May - 29th May 1970 for "Fish Hook" region Cambodia(iv)Dress Cap Badge(v)Specialist 4th Class patch (2)(vi)Riband bar for uniform(vii)1st Air Cavalry Division patch(viii)8th Cavalry patch(ix)8th Cavalry cap badge(x)Assorted copied research which shows various service details including medal entitlement.(xi)Safe Conduct Pass(xii)A further set of uniform medal ribands…

A very fine 1917 D.C.M., 1916 M.M. group of five awarded to Acting Warrant Officer Class II C. E. Nicol, 4th Battalion, Yorkshire Regiment (T.F.), later 150th Company, Machine Gun Corps, who was further 'mentioned' for his services in 1916 before being tragically killed in action during the Spring Offensive in 1918Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (23495 Sjt. C. Nicol. 150/Coy M.G.C.); Military Medal, G.V.R. (2028 Sjt: C. Nichol. 4/York: R.-T.F.); 1914-15 Star (2028 Pte. C. Nicol, York. R.); British War and Victory Medals (2028 A. W. O. Cl. II. C. E. Nicol. York. R.), mounted court style for wear, sometime lacquered, overall good very fine (5)D.C.M. London Gazette 18 July 1917, the original citation states:'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He covered the withdrawal of an exposed flank until his ammunition was all used. On the same day he volunteered and took up one gun to the threatened flank under heavy barrage, and remained there until relieved next day.'M.M. London Gazette 11 October 1916.M.I.D. London Gazette 15 June 1916.Charles Edward Nicol was born in 1892, the son of James and Fanny Nicol of Hornby Castle Gardens, Bedale, Yorkshire. Enlisting at Richmond, Yorkshire he entered the war on 17 April 1915, they went into action less than a week later when the German Army struck a surprise blow at the Second Battle of Ypres. They suffered heavy casualties around Armagh Wood and Hill 60 between February-March 1916 when a mine was detonated beneath it in February and their C.O. was killed in action by a sniper the next month.The Battalion was stationed at Kemmel when the Somme Offensive began and it was there that Nicols was 'mentioned', possibly for good service at the start of the year around Hill 60. They joined the Battle at Flers-Courcelettes in September, advancing alongside tanks for the first time towards Martinpuich. Unfortunately they found their flanks exposed to heavy fire from the German positions in High Wood and suffered severe losses to heavy shell fire from that position. Despite this, they stuck to the advance and managed to take Martinpuich, with High Wood falling several hours later. Nicol's M.M. was awarded the next month, likely as a result of his service at Kemmel rather than the Somme given the dates involved. However, the exact reason for the award is unknown.Transferred to the Machine Gun Corps in late 1916, Nicol was serving with 150 Company when his D.C.M. was awarded. 150 Company was the Brigade Company for 150th (York and Lancaster) Brigade so he was serving alongside his old Battalion at the time, either in the latter stages of the Somme Offensive or early in the Battle of Arras. The formation was amalgamated in March 1918 to form part of the 50th Machine Gun Battalion, serving the entire Division rather than a single Brigade.Nicol was posted as missing on 10 April 1918, shortly after the opening blows of the Battle of Lys. His death was officially accepted on 27 May 1918 and he is commemorated upon the Ploegstreet Memorial.…

'The C.O., Michael, and John had each destroyed an Me. 110, while Mac [McArthur] shot down two Junkers 87 dive-bombers. He would have got an Me. 110 also and got his sights on it, but nothing happened when he pressed his trigger. His ammunition was finished. So a very lucky Me. 110 lived to fight another day. Mac was very pleased about this fight, and certainly a bag of two for one's first action is very good. But it made him rather over-confident, and for the next few days he regarded the German Air Force rather as an organization which provided him with a little target practice and general harmless amusement. He soon learnt better!'One of numerous references to J. H. G. 'Butch' McArthur in David Crooks's wartime account of No. 609 Squadron in the Battle of Britain; Spitfire Pilot, refers.The outstanding Battle of Britain ace's immediate D.F.C. group of seven awarded to Wing Commander J. H. G. 'Butch' McArthur, Royal Canadian Air Force, late Royal Air ForceA superb airman, who had honed his flying skills in the Experimental Section of the Royal Aircraft Establishment in the lead up to hostilities, he claimed 8 confirmed 'kills' and 3 'probables' as a Flight Commander in Spitfires of No. 609 (West Riding) Squadron at the height of the Battle, on one occasion closing the range to just 10-20 yardsHis numerous combats, and those of his fellow pilots in 609 Squadron, are vividly recounted in the pages Flight Lieutenant D. M. Crook's famous wartime publication Spitfire PilotPost-war, and having served in the Royal Canadian Air Force at the time of the Korean conflict, his remarkable flying career ended in tragedy during a pleasure flight over Las Vegas in May 1961: both he and his passenger - a croupier from the famous Horseshoe Club - were killed when their aircraft inexplicably dived into the groundDistinguished Flying Cross, G.VI.R., the reverse officially dated '1940'; 1939-45 Star, clasp, Battle of Britain; Air Crew Europe Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; U.N. Korea 1950-54 (30386 McArthur J. H. G.), officially inscribed Canadian issue; Canadian Forces Decoration, G.VI.R., 2nd issue, the reverse of the suspension bar officially inscribed 'F/L J. H. G. McArthur', mounted as worn, good very fine (7)Provenance:Sotheby's, 6 March 1986 (Lot 628), when sold by the recipient's sister.D.F.C. London Gazette 22 October 1940:'This officer has led his flight and squadron with skill and determination. His brilliant leadership has been reflected in the high standard of morale in the flight. He has destroyed at least seven aircraft.'The original recommendation, for an immediate award which was approved by Dowding, states:'This officer has been a great asset to the Squadron since he joined it on 1 August 1940. His flying has been of the highest standard and he always leads his flight with skill and determination. On the occasions that he has led the Squadron he has displayed a sound sense of leadership and initiative. Individually he has always been keen and energetic in his desire to engage the enemy.To date he has destroyed 7 (confirmed) and 2 (unconfirmed) enemy aircraft and has severely damaged 2 others.'Covering remarks:'An outstanding fighter pilot who has now destroyed 8 enemy aircraft (confirmed) and 3 others probably, besides damaging a further 2.His brilliant and inspiring leadership has raised the morale of his flight to a very high standard since he took it over.'James Henry Gordon McArthur - or "Butch" to his friends and comrades - was born in Tynemouth on 12 February 1913 and was educated at West Jesmond Council School and Rutherford College, prior to attending the Marine School in South Shields. He subsequently found employment with the Marconi Company as a seagoing Radio Officer, in addition to obtaining certificates for Aircraft Radio Operation and Navigation.The latter qualifications led to his participation in the England to Australia 'MacRobertson Air Race' in 1934, when he flew with Captain Neville Stack, A.F.C., as his Radio-Navigator but their attempt ended in Athens - under controversial circumstances.On his return home, McArthur qualified for his Aero Certificate (No. 12614) at Redhill Aero Club in March 1935 and then teamed up with Captain T. Campbell-Black for an attempt on the London to Cape Town return record. Having flown non-stop from Hatfield to Cairo in their De Havilland Comet G-ADEF 'Boomerang', they took off for another refuelling stop in Kenya but, due to a problem with the aircraft, they were compelled to bale out north of Khartoum. Both landed safely in the desert and, on being rescued, gained membership of the famous Caterpillar Club, McArthur then being the youngest member.Brief employment as a First Officer in British Continental Airways having followed, McArthur was granted a short service commission in the Royal Air Force in May 1936. Confirmed in the rank of Pilot Officer after attending a course at R.A.F. Thornaby, he was posted to the Station Flight at Aldergrove and thence, in May 1938 to the Experimental Section at the Royal Aircraft Establishment at Farnborough as a Flying Officer and test pilot.McArthur was likewise employed on the outbreak of hostilities in September 1939 and, on being advanced to Flight Lieutenant, attended a refresher course at No. 7 O.T.U., Hawarden in July 1940. A subsequent posting to No. 238 Squadron was short-lived, however, for he was called back to Farnborough. But he continued to press for an operational posting.Battle of BritainThat wish was granted on 1 August 1940, when McArthur joined No. 609 (West Riding) Squadron, an Auxiliary Air Force unit, as a Flight Commander at Middle Wallop. Commanded by Squadron Leader H. S. Darley, D.S.O., 609 was largely manned by a pre-war class of weekend gentlemen fliers, among them Noel "Aggy" Agazarian and John Dundas; the latter's brother, Hugh, flew as wingman to Douglas Bader throughout the Battle.Over the coming weeks, on being 'scrambled' out of Middle Wallop and the satellite airfield at Warmwell, McArthur's 'brilliant leadership' of his flight - and on occasion the squadron - undoubtedly left its mark on such men. In writing to his mother in October 1940, John Dundas reported with pride that 609 was finally gaining recognition, listing McArthur's award of the D.F.C. as a case in point. He also noted that he had been given command of 'B' Flight, owing to McArthur being in hospital. More on that, later.Meanwhile, McArthur opened his operational account on 8 August 1940, when he destroyed a brace of Ju. 87s in a dogfight over the Isle of Wight-Weymouth sector. His combat report takes up the story:'…I dived on the outside of the Ju. 87 from just over 5,000 feet, fired a 7 second burst and saw him turn on his back and go into the sea. The formation then split up and I regained 4,000 feet very quickly. Height of Ju. was about 100 feet. I then dived again and gave a long burst of 10 seconds on another Ju. 87 which started to emit black smoke and dive into the sea. I then found the Me. 110. I climbed up a bit and was coming in at him from the port side and slightly above him. I turned quickly away from him and after a turn or two found myself quickly on his tail. I then found I had no more ammunition so pulled the override and hurried home … 'In Spitfire Pilot, David Crook recalls the squadron's 'bag' thus:'The C.O., Michael, and John had each destroyed an Me. 110, while Mac [McArthur] shot down two Junkers 87 dive-bombers. He would have got an Me. 110 also and got his sights on it, but nothing happened when he pressed his trigger. His ammunition was finished. So a very lucky Me. …

A good immediate 'Tobruk 1941' M.M. group of six awarded to Corporal G. Guthrie, 2nd Battalion, York and Lancaster Regiment, for his conspicuous gallantry in commanding a mortar detachment in a Bren Carrier during the capture of 'Dalby Square' on 23 November 1941 during Operation CrusaderHe subsequently served in Orde Wingate's Second Chindit Expedition, Operation Thursday, in 1944Military Medal, G.VI.R. (4745714 Cpl G. Guthrie Y.& L.R.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Burma Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, good very fine and better (6)M.M. London Gazette 24 February 1942, the original recommendation states:'On 23 November 1941, during operations outside Tobruk, Corporal Guthrie was commanding a Mortar detachment in a Bren Carrier supporting the attack by a rifle Company on an enemy post, when about 500 yards from the objective the company came under very heavy Machine Gun and Mortar Fire. The Carrier was turned sideways to enable the mortar to come into action behind it; whereupon it immediately came under heavy and accurate Machine Gun Fire. In spite of this Corporal Guthrie immediately proceeded to unload the mortar and ammunition himself and got his mortar into action. When short of bombs he made several journeys to the enemy side of the carrier to obtain more bombs although the enemy fire had not been subdued. During the whole operation Corporal Guthrie maintained his mortar in action and by his coolness and disregard of the enemy fire set an excellent example to the men under his command.'The recommendation was additionally endorsed by the Brigadier Commanding 14th Infantry Brigade:'Recommended for an immediate award of the Military Medal for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty under fire.'George Guthrie was a native of Leeds, a mill worker at Pool, Lorrimer and Tabbener's prior to the war. He attested as a regular soldier in the York and Lancaster Regiment and served with the 2nd Battalion during the Second World War initially in North Africa. Awarded the M.M. for his gallantry on 23 November 1941, he was with 'B' Company, 2nd Battalion, under Captain Northover when he was given the task of capturing 'Dalby Square', a large enemy post on the western side of Tobruk:'The attack was across flat country devoid of cover. The enemy put up a very strong resistance. He was holding his post with a large number of machine guns and light automatics, which his defensive artillery fire was intense and accurate. About 400 yards from the objective "B" Company was held up. Two Bren carriers with 3-inch mortars were then brought forward, and using the carriers as cover, both detachments opened up on the enemy. This had the immediate effect of reducing the enemy's small-arms fire. "B" Company then advanced again and rushed the position with the bayonet.' (The Regimental History refers).After serving in the Western Desert, Guthrie proceeded to India and saw further service with the 2nd Battalion as part of Orde Wingate's second Chindit Expedition, Operation Thursday, in early 1944 where the 2nd Battalion, York and Lancaster Regiment was part of 65 and 84 Columns; sold together with copied research.…

The scarce 'Benin 1897' casualty's East and West Africa Medal awarded to Gunner A. A. Targett, Royal Marine Artillery, who was specially recommended for his service in the expedition, having been seriously wounded while manning a Maxim Gun outside Benin CityEast and West Africa 1887-1900, 1 clasp, Benin 1897 (A. A. Targett, Gr R.M.A., H.M.S. St George.), slight contact wear, very fineAlred Arthur Targett was born at Portsmouth in June 1869 and attested with the Royal Marine Artillery at Eastney Barracks on 9 March 1888. He served with a number of shore establishments before being posted to Royal Arthur on 2 May 1893 and served with her for three years. Joining St. George on 24 January took part in the Benin Punitive Expedition, helping to crew a Maxim gun.In this role he was present for the attack on Benin City which occurred on 18 February 1897. Targett's service papers note, 'Feb 197 Present at attack on Benin Specially Recommended'.Unfortunately there was stiff opposition to the advance and Targett was to suffer as a result:'-shot by a man in a tree while storming Benin - when trying to remove the bullet it was found that the pubic bone was shattered & the bullet impacted - also bullet wound of chest (which was removed).'(IBID)It should be noted that the diary of Private Lewis (OMRS Journal March 2019) states that Targett continued firing the Maxim despite his wounds. The Globe and Laurel quotes the journal of Corporal Rogerson, R.M.A. which describes the role of the Maxim's during the Battle, stating:'Water was being served out, our guns put down, and we were lying about, glad of a rest, when, suddenly, fire was opened on us. "Mount the gun," was the order, and mounted it was, and in action, in less than thirty seconds, on the bush to the right, while the infantry fired volleys. The St. George's bluejackets, the 1st Section of the Marine Battalion, under Captain Byrne, our two maxims and their thirteen men, were the only troops in front, Lieut. Robertson, with the 2nd Section of the Marine Battalion being with the carrier column, in the rear. As soon as the bush to the right. Everything was stopped, as before, by the carriers burying their heads in the earth. The respective Nos. I shouldered the guns, another picked up the tripods, and the rest of the guns' crews brought up the belt boxes, but it was with difficulty that any advance was made as the coolies laid down on, and hid, the ammunition.Meanwhile the Bluejackets and Marines had left us about 200 yards in rear, while desultory firing from the right bush was still going on. This became so hot that Sergeant Turner halted and mounted his gun in a position just in front of the hot spot and backed by a large tree, I came up and took up a position and mounted three yards on his right and immediately opened fire. We had not been there five minutes before Gunners Howlett, Targett and Sinister were wounded- Captain Byrne was shot through the right side and Private Varndell in the open during the advance, while Gunners Jones and Denman were wounded slightly. An incessant fire came from the trees opposite, scarcely fifty yards away and as the guns had not sufficient elevation to clear them, I directed Gunner Flatman to place boxes under front legs…'They held their ground until the rearguard came up and then brought their guns forward to the now captured Benin City. Targett was posted to S.S. Malacca on 3 March 1897, his wound was clearly severe however despite this he was able to continue serving until March 1909 with a number of ships and shore establishments. Targett returned to service in August 1914 and served at Dunkirk before being transferred to Holm in the Orkneys in October 1915; sold together with copied research including service papers, a copy of Globe and Laurel and a casualty roll.Further entitled to a 1914 Star Trio.…

The Second World War D.S.M. group of nine awarded to Chief Petty Officer Cook A. V. E. Smithurst, Royal Navy who won his award serving on H.M.S. LondonLondon was the flagship for the escort force that failed to safeguard convoy PQ17 resulting in the loss of two thirds of the convoys vesselsDistinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (C.P.O. Cook (S) A Van Eck Smithurst. C/M. 33903); British War and Victory Medals (33903 A.V.E. Smithurst. CK.R.N.); Naval General Service 1915-62, 1 clasp, Palestine 1936-1939 (MX.33903 A.V.E. Smithurst. C.P.O. CK.R.N.); 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Burma Star; War Medal 1939-45; Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., G.V.R. (M 33903 A.V.E. Smithurst C.P.O. CK. H.M.S. Enterprise), contact marks, good very fine (9)D.S.M. London Gazette 14 June 1945.Allan Van Eck Smithurst was born on 7 September 1900 at Grantham, Lincolnshire, the son of Percy Smithurst. A baker, Smithurst enlisted in the Royal Navy on 10 September 1918, he was shore based for the duration of the Great War. Remaining in service after the war he served variously on Calypso, Ceres, and Cumberland in 1927 by which time he had been promoted to Leading Cook. On 24 November 1930 he was promoted to Petty Officer Cook and on 22 October 1933 whilst serving on Enterprise he was awarded his L.S. & G.C. Promoted to Chief Petty Officer Cook on 7 November 1934 he was posted to Sussex for service in the Mediterranean qualifying for his Naval General Service Medal.Shore based at the beginning of the Second World War he was posted to London on 7 February 1941 and served aboard her for the duration of the war.London was involved in the pursuit of the German battleship Bismarck in May 1941. During this time at sea, many cracks appeared in her upper deck and hull, due to the weight of the new superstructure causing stresses. She entered a commercial shipyard on the River Tyne in October 1941 and was under repair until February 1942. London then spent March-November 1942 in the North Atlantic on convoy protection duties in the company of several US Navy warships.Convoy PQ 17On 27 July 1942, convoy PQ-17 departed Iceland for the Soviet Union. Out of 34 merchant ships, only 11 would make it to port. At first, things seemed to be going well for the convoy as they beat off multiple German air attacks with relative ease. But, on 4 July, everything went wrong. An order arrived from Admiral Sir Dudley Pound, the First Sea Lord himself, reading 'Convoy is to scatter'. Fearing an imminent attack from German surface ships like Tirpitz the escort ships fled west while the merchant ships made for the Soviet Union.But the Tirpitz was nowhere near the convoy, in fact, it was still at its moorings in northern Norway. Instead of saving the convoy from disaster, Admiral Pound's order had doomed PQ-17 to destruction. Over the following week, two thirds of the convoy were sunk by German aircraft and U-Boats. It was the biggest loss to a British convoy of the Second World War.This period of operations in the heavy North Atlantic seas caused hull cracks and popped rivets in her lower hull, necessitating the ship again going into the dry-dock in December 1942 for strengthening of the hull and for the fitting of newer and more refined radar, and of more light anti-aircraft guns. This refit rectified her hull and was completed in May 1943, with the ship ready for sea in July. After sea trials and loading of ammunition, she was assigned to operate off the South African coast and then to the Eastern Fleet for the rest of the war.The story of H.M.S. London is the subject of a book written by Iain Ballantyne, ' From Fighting Sail to The Arctic Convoys & Tomorrow's War.', which relates the following about PQ17, stating:'Relentless air attacks by bombers flying from German airbases in northern Norway, coupled with incendiary attacks by submarines operating in Wolf packs, began to take a heavy toll on the merchant ships with losses increasing daily. On 4 July the First Sea Lord Admiral Pound, expecting a German surface attack in superior strength on the close support group, ordered the cruisers and escort destroyers to turn back to the west and instructed the convoy to scatter. Between 4 and 6 July, 18 freighters were sunk by surface ships, submarines and land-based aircraft. On 7 July three further ships were torpedoed by submarines. On 10 July three ships were bombed and sunk by aircraft. Only when the surviving ships of the convoy began to straggle onto Archangel did it become apparent that the convoy had suffered catastrophic loses. Nine ships of 56,611 tons were sunk by U-Boats; eight ships of 40,376 tons were sunk by the Luftwaffe; and eight ships which were damaged during air attacks were finished off by U-Boats. A total of 24 ships totalling 143,977 tons were lost, along with 3,350 military vehicles, 430 tanks, 210 aircraft and 99,316 tons of war supplies.'Smithurst was shore pensioned on 1 August 1945. He died at Hastings, Sussex in 1974; sold together with copied research.…

Sold by Order of the Recipient'We swing between the steel gates to see sabotaged cranes lying toppled and half-immersed in the foul thickness of what was once water - like the skeletons of prehistoric creatures preserved in their death throes...Their only light relief is when they are allowed to blow up the massive stocks of light ammunition left behind by fleeing Iraqis...My team is working just inside the main harbour wall; those not diving or supervising are huddled around a brazier in whatever layers of clothing they can fit over their uniform. They look like a group of down-and-outs surviving inner city decay on an English winter's day.I am met by their CO, Lieutenant Peter Williams, once a carefree Sub Lieutenant with me in Avenger. He now looks drawn and a good deal older - but I dare say so do I. His exploits will rightly win him a Distinguished Service Cross...I inspect their 'goodies', row upon row of Iraqi ordnance: booby traps extracted from dark corners; abandoned shells and grenades; flares and machine-gun bullet bandoliers and weapon cases. They are all stacked neatly into little symmetrical pyramids along the jetty.'Captain Craig brings to life the scenes in the Gulf in Call for FireAn outstanding Gulf War Bomb Disposal 1991 D.S.C. group of twelve awarded to Commander A. P. Williams, Royal Navy, who led Fleet Diving Unit B during Operation 'Granby'He led 'utterly from the front' with a cool confidence to the task, keeping a detailed - and hitherto unpublished - diary of events during those pivotal days and 'personally led several countermining sorties - by day and night - against some of the 1,500 Iraqi mines' and latterly in the post-War efforts in 'appalling and hazardous conditions to clear the Kuwaiti harbours' - thus adding a scarce 'Kuwait' clasp to his laurels for his work commanding Fleet Diving Unit B & NP1037Distinguished Service Cross, E.II.R., the reverse engraved 'Lt A P Williams RN', with its Royal Mint case of issue; Gulf 1990-91, 1 clasp, 16 Jan to 28 Feb 1991 (Lt A P Williams RN); General Service 1962-2007, 1 clasp, Kuwait (Lt A P Williams RN); N.A.T.O. Medal, 1 clasp, Former Yugoslavia; N.A.T.O. Medal, 1 clasp, Kosovo; Jubilee 2002; Jubilee 2012; Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., E.II.R., with 2 Additional Service Bars (Lt Cdr A P Williams DSC RN), with the named box of issue; Oman, Sultanate, Sultan's Commendation Medal (Midal ut-Tawsit), with emblem upon riband; 45th Anniversary National Day Medal; Saudia Arabia, Kingdom, Kuwait Liberation Medal; Kuwait, Emirate, Liberation Medal, silver grade, mounted court-style as worn, these last two separately as per Order of Wear, good very fine, in a case used by the recipient, the lid blocked 'Commander Peter Williams DSC' (12)Approximately 11 D.S.C.s awarded in the post-Second World War era for actions relating to Minewarfare, Diving and EOD work.Just 7 D.S.C.s awarded for Operation 'Granby'.D.S.C. London Gazette 29 June 1991:'Williams arrived in the Northern Arabian Gulf on 1 February 1991 as Deputy Officer in Charge of Fleet Diving Unit B (FDU B). He moved into action immediately, co-ordinating training, refining techniques on new equipment, establishing an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) cell and overseeing inspections for Improvised Explosive Devices (lEDs) in ships of the RN Task Group as they arrived in Bahrain.During hostilities Williams was the supervisor of an airborne EOD team and of diving operations from Gemini craft, spending many hours in helicopters in the front line of Naval operations, often within ten miles of the enemy coast. Insisting on putting himself in the way of danger before his men, he showed remarkable courage and stamina by leading personally on countermining sorties, placing charges on live buoyant mines and diving for protracted periods, often at night, on live ground mines in order to bring them to the surface for exploitation. In addition he conducted the unenviable task of recovering dead bodies from the sea into helicopters. He led a team of two men on an inspection of HMS Gloucester to search for a mine reportedly entangled in her propeller shafts.Moving ashore on 5 March to Mina Ash Shuaybah he took over as Officer In Charge of FDU B. He established a base camp and helped co-ordinate EOD operations with American and Australian Units for clearing the ports of Mina Al Ahmadi, Mina Ad Dohah and Faylakah Island. The work involved rendering safe unstable live ordnance, beached mines, booby traps and lEDs, clearing buildings and oil tankers of ordnance and collecting dead bodies from the harbour waters. Often these jobs required him and his team to first reach the scene through areas of antipersonnel mines and barbed wire. Throughout this extremely dangerous operation he showed an implacable professionalism and positive leadership which was beyond his experience. At all times his men saw him in the leading role, tirelessly taking on the most hazardous tasks himself.The conditions under which FDU B operated were atrocious. With no infrastructure ashore the men lived in cargo containers on a jetty with no light, sanitation or potable water, in an atmosphere heavy with acrid smoke and toxic fumes from the oilfield fires burning inland, and diving in water with zero visibility due to the thick oil pollution.All the time they were at risk from random gunfire from uncontrolled factions of the local population. Williams's conspicuous leadership, resolute professionalism and boundless energy ensured that his Unit's effectiveness remained at peak levels from start to finish and that his men's morale was of the highest order in the face of dire adversity.'Personel Report covering the dates 1 February-23 April 1991, as Officer in Charge Fleet Diving Unit B & NP1037 to Commander Task Group 321.1, from Commodore C. J. S. Craig, Commander Task Group 321.1:'This is to certify that Lieutenant Williams has conducted himself to my entire satisfaction.Williams came into theatre after two weeks has elapsed of the Gulf War, becoming Deputy Officer in Charge of a Fleet Diving Unit. Initially a supervisor of the airborne EOD teams, he personally led several countermining sorties - by day and night - against some of the 1500 Iraqi mines.Shortly after the war finished he took over he took over as the Officer in Charge of the combined diving team which worked for several weeks in appalling and hazardous conditions to clear the main Kuwaiti harbours - a task which was completed ahead of time and thankfully without any casualties. Throughout this period Williams has led courageously, and utterly from the front, has shown stamina, cheerfulness and professionalism, and has set a fine example to his people. He has briefed clearly, shown economical style with his signalled reports and demonstrated an ability to organise events sensibly and wisely.I have recommended his without reservation for transfer to the General List and would see him developing his professional potential through further command for which I also have recommended him.Altogether Williams can be extremely proud of his achievements in peace and war in the Gulf.'SALE 25001 NOTICE:Now offered together with his Royal Navy Divers Log (Form S. 1627), covering the periods 12 February 1985-8 March 2004, including his Ops during the Gulf War, a terrific resource with a plethora of detail. Further accompanied by his SBS RN Officers MCD Advanced EOD Course Certificate (9 June-25 July 1986) and MCD Officer Qualification Certificate (3 November 1986) and Minewarfare brochure, featuring Williams as OIC FDU2.

A poignant and early Second World War D.F.M. awarded to Pilot Officer C. G. L. Williams, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, who was decorated for his part in a protracted dogfight between his Anson of No. 217 Squadron and a Heinkel 115 seaplane in October 1940Subsequently commissioned, he was assigned to a suicidal daylight sortie against the Admiral Hipper at Brest, from which his Beaufort failed to returnDistinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. (580129 Sgt. C. G. L. Williams, R.A.F.), extremely fineD.F.M. London Gazette 24 December 1940, the original recommendation states:'On 16 October 1940, when navigator [and Captain of Aircraft] of Anson K.8745, an enemy U-boat and Heinkel 115 were attacked in a position 100 miles S.W. of the Scillies. The attack against the Heinkel was pressed home and the action continued until the Heinkel made its get away due to its superior performance.This action was typical of this N.C.O. who has completed 600 hours of operational flying during the first year of the war which has included night raids on Brest and attacks against barges and shipping. The devotion to duty shown by this N.C.O. has been of the highest order.Appointment held: Airman Pilot, No. 217 Squadron.Recognition recommended: Distinguished Flying Medal.'Cilmyn George Lane Williams was born in Caernarvonshire in December 1911 and was likely a pre-war Halton aircraft apprentice. More certain is the fact he was serving as a member of No. 217 Squadron on the outbreak of war, a Coastal Command unit based at St. Eval, Cornwall.Of events off the Scillies on 16 October 1940, the unit's Operations Record Book (O.R.B.) states:'While on patrol, attacked enemy U-boat with bombs. No results observed. He. 115 sighted in immediate vicinity of U-boat. He. 115 attacked and several bursts were seen to enter E./A. which took evasive action. A running battle with E./A. lasted for 40 minutes and Anson had to abandon the fight due to shortage of ammunition.'Commissioned as a Pilot Officer in January 1941, Williams was still serving in 217 Squadron at the time of his death in action on 15 February 1941. On that date, he took off from St. Eval in Beaufort L9794 MW-R, one of three aircraft assigned to a suicidal daylight mission to attack the Hipper at Brest. As summarised by the unit's O.R.B.:'In the opinion of those best qualified to judge on the station, this was not a justifiable war risk. The damage which three machines armed with 500lb. bombs at the largest could inflict on the Hipper did not justify the very serious risk to the three machines. The small chance of making more than one direct hit at the most increased rather than decreased the inadvisability of the sortie.'All three Beauforts were shot down 20 miles north of Brest by Luftwaffe fighters from 5/JG. 77. Williams' aircraft crashed into the sea.Aged just 30 years old at the time of his death, Williams left a widow, Violet, and is commemorated on the Runnymede Memorial. He is also commemorated on a plaque at St. Beuno Church at Clynnog Fawr and on a roll of honour at the Memorial Hall at Criccieth, both in Gwynedd, Wales.Sold with an original telegram from the C.O. of No. 15 Group, congratulating the recipient on his award of the D.F.M., dated 18 December 1940, an original Central Chancery letter addressed to the recipient's widow, dated 27 February 1942, in which she is invited to attend a Buckingham Palace investiture on 17 March 1942 to receive his D.F.M., and several wartime photographs.…

South Africa 1877-79, 1 clasp, 1879 (4696 Gnr. R. L. Lead, R.A.), an officially impressed late issue, good very fineRoll states 'Rep[laced] 24/5/03.'273 Medals were issued to members of the Battery, 132 of them with the '1879' clasp. Robert L. Lead served with N Battery, 5th Brigade, commanded by Brevet Lieutenant-Colonel. A. Harness, C.B.. They formed part of Glyn's Column of the army of invasion in January 1879, and comprised 130 men of all ranks, with six guns, 73 horses, 36 mules and six mule-carts, with transport wagons. In the disastrous encounter with the enemy at Isandhlwana, the Battery lost Brevet Major Stuart Smith and 61 men, together with two guns, 24 horses, 30 mules and 534 rounds of ammunition. The Battery re-crossed the Buffalo River with the remains of the column on 23 January and remained at Rorke's Drift until the 25th, before proceeding to Helpmekaar where it remained until 17 April; during this time considerable sickness prevailed.Proceeding to Dundee, the Battery formed part of Newdigate's Division and took part in garrison duties. Leaving the guns at Fort George under the command of an officer, with the dismounted men, Brevet Lieutenant-Colonel Harness, with approximately 35 mounted men and officers, took part in the search for the Zulu King. The Column was shortly afterwards broken up and the Battery proceeded to the Transvaal.…

Four: Wing Commander A. T. Whitelock, Royal Air Force, late Royal Flying Corps, who was 'mentioned' in 19171914-15 Star (2. Lieut. A. T. Whitelock. R.F.C.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (Major A. T. Whitelock. R.F.C.); Coronation 1937, mounted as worn, very fine (4)Arthur Thomas Whitelock was born on 25 March 1888, was educated at Archbishop Holgate's School and Jesus College, Oxford. He was a Classical Master living at Oakdene, Mount Vernon Road, Barnsley at the outbreak of the Great War. He took Aero Certificate No. 1263 on a Farman biplane at Brooklands on 22 May 1915, being made 2nd Lieutenant in the Royal Flying Corps that same day. Whitelock served in France with No. 5 Squadron from 4 July 1915. On 23 September 1915, having joined No. 4 Squadron, he was pilot of Be2c 2035. That day formed part of the preparations for the Battle of Loos, Whitelock shot down a 'Fokker 2 seater' south-east of Douai and south of Arras, the enemy aircraft '...shot through prop'.Whitelock and Balmain had a lucky escape on 25 November 1915. While engaged on an artillery co-operation sortie between Bray and Albert in Be2c 2001, they were attacked by an enemy aircraft, of a type unknown to them. No sooner had they driven it off than they were attacked from above by an Albatros, which they also drove off. A third aircraft attacked from behind and Whitelock managed to disengage, having expended all their ammunition. Considering discretion to be the better part of valour, the mission was abandoned. On 14 December, his aircraft was damaged after being chased by Fokker on a special mission to Hervilly.Returned home, he returned to France in September 1916 to assume Command of No. 7 Squadron and was 'mentioned' (London Gazette 15 May 1917 refers).Made Wing Commander in January 1922, he went to RAF Halton on Staff Duties in April 1924 and was in command of No. 10 Squadron in 1929. Whilst with that unit he designed their Squadron Badge & motto - rem acu tangere ('to hit the mark!'), which was apparently conceived whilst watching archery practice in Oxford. He took over No. 2 Bomber Group at Andover in May 1935 and was District Commandant Rochester by 1939. He was retired in March 1943 and is buried in Bibury, with a new headstone being unveiled by the 10 Squadron Association in recent years.…

The 1940 Dunkirk M.C. group of four awarded to Major L. A. F. P. Gould-Marks, Royal Army Service Corps, late Royal Tank RegimentMilitary Cross, G.VI.R., the reverse officially dated '1940' and additionally inscribed 'Capt. L. A. F. P. Gould-Marks. Dunkirk'; 1939-45 Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted as worn by Spink & Son, 5 King Street, London, good very fine (4)M.C. London Gazette 20 December 1940, the original recommendation states:'When most of the Divisional R.A.S.C. had embarked this officer organised his ammunition section as the Divisional R.A.S.C. and he fed the 1st Division and several other divisions from 29th May to 2nd June. This well nigh on impossible task was carried out under continuous air bombardment and shell fire. It was intirely due to his initiative, re-sourcefulness and devotion to duty that all ranks of the Division received rations. His example was worthy of the best traditions of the R.A.S.C..'Langton Alfred Francis Gould-Marks was born in June 1910 at Streatham, London and had been commissioned into the Royal Army Service Corps from the Supplementary Reserve of Officers, Royal Tank Regiment in June 1939. Further detail into his award is extracted from 1 Div A+Q records (TNA WO167/192 refers), written at Hondschoote:'D.A.Q. found Captain Marks, R.A.S.C., who still had his section of lorries intact, but was short of a few drivers. Four volunteers were obtained from 2 Hampshires and so there were drivers for all the vehicles. Captain Marks was then told to scavenge everywhere and collect all the supplies he could find and establish a Supply Depot at Bray Dunes.Captain Marks with his loyal band of NCO's and drivers performed the impossible. He found supplies here, there and everywhere and brought them all into Bray Dunes. A half-unloaded Belgian supply train, a beached lighter, discarded lorries all along the front, were all searched and supplies of every description poured into the little supply depot. About four divisions passed through Bray Dunes during the next four days, and they were all given some rations, all which time Captain Marks continued to supply 1 Division and all troops under command. Four lorry loads of rum also proved invaluable.'An active member of the film industry, he was involved in producing the Central Office of Information short film Britain Can Make it, No. 14, which had Geoffrey Sumner starring. His three Campaign Medals were issued to him in August 1948, before going out to Sydney with his wife in May 1949 to produce more titles and died in Camden, London in October 1997; sold together with photocopies of the Invitation to Investiture, dated 20 August 1940, which was retained by the family upon the original sale of these Medals.…

A Crescent Diecast Mobile Artillery Unit 3 Piece Set, comprising 3-ton Bedford lorry, ammunition lumber and 25 pdr quick action field gun, all very good, boxed, damages to box, hard to find.

Four hundred and eighty seven Winchester Subsonic cal 22 rifle cartridges, 40 grain hollow point. FIREARMS CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

Two hundred and thirty three cal 22 WMR, to include one hundred and fifty Hirtenberg 40 grain soft point. FIREARMS CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

One hundred and sixty eight Winchester cal 22 WRF Super X extra power rifle cartridges. FIREARMS CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

+/- One hundred and seventy five 28 bore shotgun cartridges, to include Eley VIP 24 gram, 7 shot fibre wad, 70 mm.  SHOTGUN CERTIFICATE REQUIRED.  WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

One hundred and seventy five cal 22 rifle cartridges, to include shot shells etc. FIREARMS CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

One hundred and thirty five 12 bore slugs, mostly 65.5 mm 26 gram. FIREARMS CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

+/- One thousand four hundred CCI large rifle primers. FIREARMS CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

Five hundred Topmark 20 bore shotgun cartridges, 70 mm 28 gram No. 7 shot, fibre wad. SHOTGUN CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

+/- One hundred and sixty 28 bore shotgun cartridges, various makes, various shot sizes. SHOTGUN CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

+/- One thousand two hundred Winchester small pistol primers, together with 9 mm brass cases, percussion caps etc. FIREARMS CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

Five hundred Hull cartridge 20 bore Ideal shotgun cartridges, made for B E Chaplin Gunmakers Winchester, 23 gram shot Size 6 and 7, 65 mm.  SHOTGUN CERTIFICATE REQUIRED.  WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

Five hundred Hull cartridge 20 bore Ideal shotgun cartridges, made for B E Chaplin Gunmakers Winchester, 23 gram shot Size 6, 65 mm. SHOTGUN CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

Fifty five 28 bore shotgun cartridges, mostly Eley VIP 21 gram 7 shot fibre wad, 70 mm.  Fibre 32 gram 6 and a leather and canvas cartridge belt.  SHOTGUN CERTIFICATE REQUIRED.  WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

Three hundred and seventy six cal 22 LR rifle cartridges, mostly Standard Plus SK. FIREARMS CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

Five hundred NSI Super Felt 12 bore shotgun cartridges, 70 mm, 34 gram, shot size 5. SHOTGUN CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

+/- Fifty mixed 12 bore shotgun cartridges, to include Hull cartridge three crowns, Express Super Game 36 gram AAA 70 mm etc. SHOTGUN CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

A metal ammunition storage cabinet, with key. Height 30 cm, width 30 cm, depth 20.5 cm.

An ammunition display board containing live section one and two ammunition. 39 x 60 cm. RELEVANT AMMUNITION COLLECTORS CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

An ammunition storage box. Height 24 cm, width 31 cm, depth 24 cm.

Three hundred and thirteen cal 22 LR rifle cartridges, two leather ammo pouches and a plastic ammo case. FIREARMS CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

Fifty two Federal cal 223 Remington 55 grain soft point rifle cartridges. FIREARMS CERTIFICATE REQUIRED.  WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

+/- Three hundred 12 bore shotgun cartridges, to include Eley Pigeon Select, 30 gram, 6 shot fibre wad 70 m and Gamebore Regal 30 gram 5 shot 65 mm fibre wad. SHOTGUN CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

Two hundred and fifty 20 bore shotgun cartridges, to include Hull cartridge High Pheasant, B E Chaplin Gunmakers Winchester Ideal etc.  Shot Sizes 6, 65 and 67 mm fibre wad.  SHOTGUN CERTIFICATE REQUIRED.  WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

One hundred and ninety five cal 22 LR rifle cartridges - Winchester Subsonic Super X, 40 grain. FIREARMS CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

One hundred and forty five 12 bore shotgun cartridges - Kent, Impact, Tungsten Matrix, No 1 shot 36 gram 70 mm plastic wad, ten Winchester 40 Super Speed Extra and ten SMI Mini Magnum . SHOTGUN CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

Two hundred and fifty NSI Super Felt 12 bore shotgun cartridges, 70 mm, 34 gram, shot size 4. SHOTGUN CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

Five hundred Eley Force cal 22 LR rifle cartridges, 42 grain round nose. FIREARMS CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

One hundred and fifty shotgun collectors cartridges, William Powell General Cartridges 20 bore shot size 7, Heelis Rossen The Economist, SR Jeffrey & Son Champion, Eley Kynoch and Eley Noble Metallic cartridges. SHOTGUN CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

Sixty cal 222 Remington Gamehead soft point 50 grain rifle cartridges, FIREARMS CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

Five hundred cal 22 LR Remington Thunderbolt Rimfire rifle cartridges. FIREARMS CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

Seventeen 410 shotgun cartridges, 2 1/2" No. 6 shot. SHOTGUN CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

Fifty two cal 223 Remington rifle cartridges, various makes together with a Bisley ammo pouch. FIREARMS CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

Over one hundred 12 bore shotgun cartridges - Canuck Standard Load, 2 3/4" 7 shot, Eley Grand Prix etc. SHOTGUN CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

Six 38/357 CCI shot shells. FIREARMS CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

A metal ammunition safe, with two internal shelves and single key. Height 65 cm, width 30.5 cm, depth 15.5 cm, together with a Hawke shot saver.

Seventy six 12 bore shotgun cartridges - Eley High Flyer and Eley Amber. SHOTGUN CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

A Brady canvas and leather trimmed bag, containing fifty two12 bore shotgun cartridges, various makes and sizes.  SHOTGUN CERTIFICATE REQUIRED.  WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.

Ninety two shotgun cartridges, to include 12, 20 and 16 bore paper and plastic cases - William Evans Marlboro, Dixons of Edinburgh Special Blue Shell, Eley Acme cartridge, The Bristol by George Gibbs Bristol & London, Charles Heelis & Sons London, Badminton High Velocity by Holland & Holland, The Gibbs by George Gibbs Bristol. SHOTGUN CERTIFICATE REQUIRED. WE CANNOT POST AMMUNITION.