U.S.A. Army Distinguished Service Cross, reverse machine engraved, ‘Reginald Allen’, mounted court style for display with 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals, all unnamed, nearly extremely fine (7) £200-300

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, A Collection of Named and Attributable American Medal Groups.

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Army D.S.C. awarded to ‘Reginald Allen, 3654909, Sergeant, British Army, for extraordinary heroism in action with the Army of the United States on 8 March 1943 near Tamera, Tunisia. When his platoon was attacked by a force of eighty Germans who maintained heavy pressure for four hours, and established machine guns within fifty yards. Sergeant Allen displayed great courage and leadership in directing his men to hold the enemy, organizing and leading them in a counter attack in which twenty Germans were killed and their machine guns captured. Later, when attacked from an unexpected direction, Sergeant Allen found himself facing an enemy section alone. Cooly standing his ground, his accurate fire killed several of the enemy and stopped their advance. When assistance arrived, he led the successful counter attack which drove them from the area. His exceptional gallantry and inspirational leadership are in keeping with the highest military traditions.’

Company Sergeant-Major (W.O. Cl.2) Reginald Allen, 3rd Battalion Parachute Regiment, A.A.C. was killed in action on 19 September 1944, aged 23 years, in the ‘Market-Garden’ operations near Arnhem. He was buried in the Arnhem Oosterbeek War Cemetery. He was the son of John Willie and Fanny Allen, of Warrington, Lancashire.

Only 64 Distinguished Service Crosses were awarded to British and Commonwealth troops during the Second World War. With copied citation and casualty details.

This lot is sold as seen and is not subject to return. Please see saleroom notice on lot 280 for fuller details.