Orders, Decorations and Medals

A Second War M.M. group of seven awarded to Corporal H. E. Trace, Queen’s Regiment

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (5628945 Cpl., Queens R.) a later issue, the word ‘replacement’ neatly erased from edge of medal; 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, with 8th Army clasp; Italy Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals, nearly extremely fine (7) £180-220

M.M. London Gazette 18 May 1943 The recommendation states: ‘At Medenene on 6 March 1943, Cpl. Trace was in charge of a 3” mortar detachment which caused a great number of casualties to the enemy. The fact that his company beat off a heavy attack was in large measure due to the control he exercised over the fire of his mortar.

During the attack he showed outstanding courage and initiative, and throughout the day he remained in his O.P. on the exposed side of a hill under extremely heavy fire of all kinds. His cheerfulness and example kept up the spirits of his men, and whenever the enemy showed himself, Cpl. Trace immediately brought the fire of his mortar to bear upon them.’