A fine Second War ‘D-Day’ M.M. group of five awarded to Lance Sergeant D. J. Oakley, 90 Field Company, Royal Engineers, for his gallantry as part of 10 Beach Group, 104 Beach Sub Area, in leading a mine clearance party immediately after landing in Jig sector, Gold Beach, 6 June 1944

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (2136656 Cpl. D. J. Oakley. R.E.); 1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted for wear, generally good very fine (5) £3,000-£4,000

M.M. London Gazette 31 August 1944:

‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Normandy.’

The original recommendation, dated 10 June 1944, states:

‘Cpl. Oakley landed on the beaches East of Le Hamel at H + 30 mins on June 6. He was in charge of a mine clearance party. At the time he landed, Le Hamel was strongly held by the enemy and the exit he had to clear was under small arms and mortar fire. Nevertheless Cpl. Oakley coolly led his party to it and started and successfully completed his task. Subsequently by his personal example of cheerfulness and energy he played a prominent part in the completion of beach exits and tracks.’

Douglas John Oakley was born in Willesden, London in October 1909. He served during the Second War with 90 Field Company, Royal Engineers, and on D-Day was part of 10 Beach Group, 104 Beach Sub Area. He landed on Gold Beach just east of Le Hamel, 6 June 1944, and distinguished himself whilst trying to clear mines under an onslaught of defensive fire from the various German strong points interspersed overlooking Jig Beach. Lance Sergeant Oakley died in Worthing, Sussex in January 1985.