An early Second World War Maginot Line M.M., Croix de Guerre group of four awarded to Fusilier J. Worsley, Lancashire Fusiliers: decorated for his gallantry in a successful contact with the enemy near Saar in March 1940, he was killed in action eight weeks later

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (3446868 Fsr. J. Worsley, Lan. Fus.); 1939-45 Star; War Medal 1939-45; French Croix de Guerre 1939, with star riband fitment, nearly extremely fine (4) £1600-1800

Ex Usher Collection.

M.M. London Gazette 19 April 1940. The original recommendation states:

‘On 19-20 March 1940, Fusilier Worsley was second-in-command of a patrol consisting of an officer and six men, which was moving to an objective some 2,000 yards in front of our line in the British sector, Saar. During the patrol a German patrol of double the strength was sighted. This patrol was followed for a considerable way and, to engage it, the officer in charge of our patrol divided his party into two portions, Fusilier Worsley taking command of one portion. The enemy patrol was engaged and dispersed, leaving five dead and a wounded prisoner, who was carried back to our lines by Fusilier Worsley. The latter’s personal bravery and coolness and his leadership of half the patrol contributed largely to the success gained.’

John Worsley, a native of Pendleton, Manchester, was killed in action on 21 May 1940, while serving in the 2nd Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers. A confirmed recipient of the French Croix de Guerre, he was 25 years of age and is buried in Waarmaarde Churchyard, Avelgem, Belgium.