Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A rare ‘Aden’ M.M. group of five awarded to Sergeant Thomas Edwards, Welsh Guards, who was decorated for gallantry during Operation Wellington Barracks in March 1966 - one of only eleven such awards for Aden

Military Medal, E.II.R., 1st issue (22217659 Sgt., WG); General Service 1918-622 clasps, Malaya, Cyprus (22217659 Cpl., W.G.); U.N. Cyprus; General Service 1962, 2 clasps, South Arabia, Northern Ireland (22217659 Sgt., WG); Coronation 1953, some edge bruising and polished, therefore about nearly very fine (5) £12000-15000

M.M. London Gazette 20 December 1966.

The following is extracted from the official recommendation:

‘In Operation Wellington Barracks from March 25th - March 29th in the Wadi Taym, Sergeant Edwards was given the task of laying booby traps and covering a section of the company arc fire. He laid them very expertly and they together with the mortar fire, caused casualties to the extent of three dissidents killed and at least six wounded.

On 28 March, when on this operation, his platoon came under heavy and accurate fire from small arms, mortars and blindicides, Sergeant Edwards displayed a cool courage which was an inspiration to the platoon. His calm direction of machine-gun fire undoubtedly contributed to the casualties inflicted.

Throughout the battalion’s tour in Aden he has shown magnificent leadership and devotion to duty over and above what is expected of a Non Commissioned Officer of his rank. He has displayed courage and determination in the highest military tradition.’

Sold with the following original documentation:

i.Letter of congratulation from Major-General J. E. F. Willoughby, CB, CBE, Commanding Middle East Land Forces, dated 8 December 1966: ‘The way in which you commanded your platoon during the action and in particular, the courage you displayed when your platoon was attacked on 28 March, deserved recognition and I am glad that what you did has been so fittingly recognised.’

ii. Letter of congratulation from Brigadier J. B. Dye, OBE, MC, Commanding Federal Regular Army, Aden, dated 28 December 1966: ‘Your actions in Operation Wellington Barracks clearly played a large part in the casualties inflicted upon the enemy. All ranks of the F.R.A. join me in sending our congratulations.’

iii. Letter from Colonel M. C. Thursby-Pelham, Welsh Guards, dated 20 December 1966.

iv. Letter of congratulation from Major-General B. O. P. Eugster, CB, CBE, DSO, MC, dated 19 December 1966.

v. Letter of congratulation from Lieutenant-General Sir David Peel Yates, KCB, CVO, DSO, OBE, dated 18 December 1966.

vi. Five further letters of congratulation.

vii. Several original newspaper cuttings relating to the award of the Military Medal.

viii. Four photographs of recipient and four military press photographs of Aden.