Orders, Decorations and Medals

A Second World War ‘ammunition train explosion’ B.E.M. group of five awarded to Fusilier A. McMichael, Royal Scots Fusiliers, later killed in action

British Empire Medal (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (3135282 Fus. Andrew McMichael); 1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals, good very fine (5) £350-400

B.E.M. (Military) London Gazette 10 March 1944: ‘In recognition of gallant conduct in carrying out hazardous work in a very brave manner.’

Fusilier Andrew McMichael won the B.E.M. for gallant conduct at Hexham Railway Station on 8 September 1943, when ammunition exploded whilst being loaded into railway wagons. McMichael and another Fusiler, having volunteered to help, crawled under a burning wagon, and disconnected it from another wagon which was also on fire. ‘This action was entirely voluntary and showed a complete disregard for personal safety. It might well be that their gallantry saved the lives of many troops and civilians in the neighbourhood.’ Sold with full details from the official report of the explosion and a copy news cutting.

Fusilier McMichael was killed in action on 24 March 1945 when serving with the 6th battalion, Royal Scots Fusiliers, during the crossing of the Rhine near Bislich.