A Second War ‘Malta Command’ B.E.M. group of seven awarded to Lieutenant L. Boyes, Duke of Wellington’s West Riding Regiment, late Private, East Kent Regiment, for gallantry in extinguishing a burning Beaufighter in March 1942

British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (4398313 Pte. Lewis Boyes); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; General Service 1918-62, 1 clasp, Malaya, E.II.R. (Lt. L. Boyes. BEM. DWR.) mounted court-style for display, very fine (7) £600-£800

B.E.M. (Military) London Gazette 28 October 1942:
‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the field’

The following recommendation for an Immediate M.M. was submitted by Lieutenant-Colonel D. P. Iggulden, 4th Battalion, East Kent Regiment:
‘Whilst working on Ta Kali at about 18.30 hours in 18 March 192, he saw a Beaufighter, which was near to him, catch fire through an exploding bomb. Private Boyes at once ran to the plane and, assisted by 3856452 Private Haynes of the 8th Battalion, Manchester Regiment and a RAF sentry, extinguish the fire and pulled away the camouflage nets which were also burning. The work was made very difficult by the fumes coming from the fire. The prompt and determined action by them undoubtedly saved the Beaufighter from being destroyed.’

Lewis Boyes was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment on 28 October 1944.