Orders, Decorations and Medals

A superb ‘Crossing of the Rhine’ M.C. group of six awarded to Captain D. L. Jones, Royal Engineers

Military Cross, G.VI.R., the reverse dated 1945, in case of issue; 1939-45 Star; France & Germany Star; Defence & War Medals, these in their named card box of issue; Netherlands, Bronze Cross, in original case of issue, together with official copy citation for M.C., and original award certificate and translation for the Netherlands Bronze Cross, extremely fine (6) £700-900

M.C. London Gazette 20 December 1945. The following citation accompanies the group:

‘At 2200 hours on 23rd March, 1945, Captain Jones was commanding a Troop of Buffalos in support of the 1st S.S. [Special Service] Brigade in their assault on Grav Insel - 2 miles West of Wesel.

He was in personal command of the first wave of the first flight of Buffalos to cross the Rhine at this point. Enemy reaction was rapid and effective and he led his troop across the river into a hail of mortar and shell fire. The craft next to him received a direct hit and caught fire, and his own craft was severely damaged by a near miss, but he continued unswervingly, exactly to his prearranged landing place and put down his craft load. After abandoning his now useless craft, Captain Jones continued to command his troop in ferrying succeeding waves of Commandos across the river carrying on with his task regardless of enemy fire.

Captain Jones displayed courage and determination of the highest order throughout. By his actions he contributed greatly to the success of the assault, and was an ever-present inspiration to all ranks who were working with him.’

Netherlands Bronze Cross approved on 5 April 1946 (Secret Nr. Z62) for ‘Behaving gallantly and tactfully opposite the enemy, and showing an uncommon devotion to duty during the operations for the liberation of enemy-occupied Netherlands territory.’