Orders, Decorations and Medals

A Second World War ‘N.W. Europe’ M.M. group of five awarded to Acting Serjeant E. G. M. Willcocks, King’s Royal Rifle Corps

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (6850428 A. Sjt., K.R.R.C.); 1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals, mounted court style for wear, good very fine and better (5) £1600-1800

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, A Collection of Medals to the 60th Rifles and King’s Royal Rifle Corps.

View
Collection

M.M. London Gazette 21 June 1945. ‘For gallant and distinguished service in N.W. Europe’.

Recommendation reads, ‘Throughout this period, from November 1944 to January 1945, during which the Battalion has been almost continuously in the line, Cpl. Willcocks has consistently shown the highest qualities of leadership and courage. His example of cheerfulness and coolness under fire has maintained the spirit and increased the “dash” shown by his section of motor infantry. In particular his conduct at Tongerloo may be mentioned. His platoon was ordered to find out the location of the enemy positions. His platoon commander, two NCOs and one Rfn were badly wounded, the platoon Sgt and one Rfn were killed by Spandau fire. Cpl Willcocks was the only remaining NCO. He held the platoon together by his leadership and completed the task of the platoon. He used the platoon weapons with resource and initiative, and thereby extricated all the wounded. His behaviour on this occasion is in keeping with the standard of conduct which he has reached, and which he may confidently expected to maintain’.

Willcocks, from Kingsgate, Kent, was serving in the 2nd Battalion K.R.R.C. at the time. The battalion was part of 4th Armoured Brigade, 8th Corps, 2nd Army.