Auction Catalogue

4 & 5 December 2008

Starting at 11:00 AM

.

Orders, Decorations and Medals

Washington Mayfair Hotel  London  W1J 5HE

Lot

№ 1295

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5 December 2008

Estimate: £1,200–£1,500

A good Second World War B.E.F. 1940 operations M.M. group of six awarded to Lance-Sergeant W. D. Smith, Royal Engineers

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (2210969 L./Sjt. W. D. Smith, R.E.); 1939-45 Star; Italy Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals, mounted as worn, contact marks and one or two edge bruises, otherwise very fine and better (6) £1200-1500

M.M. London Gazette 20 December 1940. The original recommendation - for a D.C.M. - states:

‘On the night of 13-14 May 1940, this N.C.O. was under 2nd Lieutenant Southworth, in charge of the preparation of a large road crater east of Dyle. The road had to be kept open till the last moment to permit the withdrawal of the cavalry. He remained at his post until 1500 hours on 14 May and finally successfully blew the crater after the cavalry had passed through. This action, which was performed under shell and M.G. fire, when the enemy were within 300 yards, created a most effective obstacle to enemy A.F.Vs and blocked a direct line of approach to our position. It was carried out with complete disregard to his own personal safety and was a most inspiring example to all.’

William Drummond Smith was serving in 238 Field Company, R.E. at the time of the above deeds.