A Second War ‘Home Guard’ B.E.M. pair awarded to Company Quarter Master Sergeant W. Edwards, Essex Home Guard

British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (C.Q.M.S. William Edwards. H.G.); Defence Medal, the B.E.M. struck on a slightly thinner flan, good very fine (2) £200-240

Provenance: Norman Brooks Collection, Spink, July 2015.

B.E.M. London Gazette 15 December 1944.

The Recommendation states: ‘This N.C.O. has rendered most valuable service to his Company ever since its formation. In addition to carrying out his normal duties in a most efficient and conscientious manner, he has lent accommodation for stores, vehicles, and offices; provided transport, labour, and materials of all kinds free of charge; and allowed the use of ground for training. He has acted in a most helpful and generous manner throughout.’

William Edwards was born in Dagenham Essex, in 1887, and served during the Second World War with the 9th (Mistley) Battalion, Essex Home Guard.