Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A scarce Second World War Sicily operations M.M. group of five awarded to Lance- Corporal J. M. Morans, Royal Signals, attached 11th (H.A.C.) Regiment, Royal Horse Artillery, who was decorated for his gallantry in saving life under very heavy shell fire near Mount Etna

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (2341498 L. Cpl. J. M. Morans, R. Signals); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45, the first with edge bruise, contact marks, generally very fine (5) £1000-1200

M.M. London Gazette 18 November 1943:

‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Sicily.’

The original recommendation for an immediate award states:

‘On 29 July 1943, the Regiment was moving into position in the area of Agira to support an attack. In order to get to the position the Recce. parties had to go along a track which was registered by the enemy and which was being shelled. Certain vehicles were hit and men very badly wounded. Despite the fact the shelling was still going on and was very accurate, Lance-Corporal Morans, with complete disregard for his own safety, went to the spot and gave every succour he could to the wounded, bringing back two of them to his own truck. He then drove his truck back along the same track, which was still being shelled, and got the men to safety and an M.D.S. For ten minutes Lance-Corporal Morans was subjected to the most accurate shelling and his coolness and bravery was an example to all.’

John McAulay Morans was from Campbeltown, Argyllshire.