Orders, Decorations and Medals

An outstanding Immediate ‘Cassino Castle’ M.M. group of six awarded to Sergeant A. K. Brindley, The Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regiment

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (6347663 Sjt., The Queen’s R.) official correction to first four digits of number; 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, clasp, 1st Army; Italy Star; Defence & War Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaf, brooch type, very fine (6) £500-700

M.M. London Gazette 20 July 1944: ‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Italy.’

‘W/Sjt. Alex Kirkness Brindley, 6 Royal West Kent Regiment. Sjt Brindley was in command of the Mortar Platoon throughout the battalion’s engagement in the Cassino Sector. During this period the platoon was continuously in action, and its efficient and courageous use of its weapons was one of the main factors in the successful defence by the battalion of Cassino Castle. His platoon was largely instrumental in breaking up the enemy counter-attack on 23 March 1944, when 34 prisoners were taken and over 40 casualties inflicted. The positions which had to be taken up by the detachments were exposed and under constant and heavy enemy shellfire, but under the calm and efficient control of Sjt Brindley they were continuously amintained in action. His complete disregard for his personal safety, and his calmness at all times, were a great source of inspiration to the NCOs and men under his command.’

M.I.D. London Gazette 24 August 1944: ‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Italy:- Sergt. A. K. Brindley, M.M., R.W.K.’

Sergeant A. K. Brindley was the son of Corporal A. Brindley, Royal Field Artillery, who won the Military Medal in the Great War and whose medals are sold at Lot 1305. The naming of Sergeant Brindley’s M.M. to ‘The Queen’s R.’ is clearly a clerical error.