Orders, Decorations and Medals

A courageous military B.E.M. awarded to Lance-Corporal T. Raletoane, African Auxiliary Pioneer Corps

British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (AS.2667 L/Cpl. T. Raletoane) good very fine £180-220

B.E.M. London Gazette 19 November 1943.

Recommendation reads, ‘While dealing with a serious outbreak of fire at a petrol depot, Lance-Corporal Raletoane (a Basuto), with great bravery repeatedly went into the flames between isolated petrol dumps which were exploding the whole time, and with entire disregard for his own personal safety removed drums and cans of petrol in order to prevent spread of the fire. It was necessary to play a hose on Lance-Corporal Raletoane, so fierce was the heat of the fire. By his actions Lance-Corporal Raletoane materially prevented the spread of the fire and set an example of coolness and courage to all ranks.’