Orders, Decorations and Medals

A fine Second War ‘assault crossing’ M.M. awarded to Acting Company Sergeant Major A. E. Anscombe, 30 Battalion, Royal Marines

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (PO.X.675 A.T.W.O.Cl.2. A. E. Anscombe, R.M.) good very fine £1500-2000

M.M. London Gazette 24 January 1946.

‘During the assault crossing of the River Maas in the area of Alem Island by 30 RM on the night 23rd-24th April 1945, CSM Anscombe showed resource and qualities of leadership unsurpassed by any NCO in the battalion. By his far-sighted and thorough arrangements, he was mainly responsible for the successful organisation and operation of his company’s boats for the river crossing which was accomplished under heavy small arms and mortar fire. Later he moved forward, close behind the leading platoons and ably assisted in the reorganisation on the objective. On the 25th April in the same area at about 2300 hrs, while his Company Commander was with an out-lying platoon, Company HQ was fired upon at close range by an enemy patrol. A certain amount of confusion arose in the dark and one man was wounded. CSM Anscombe who was the senior rank at HQ took charge immediately. He rallied the Headquarters personnel, located the enemy patrol and organised immediate return fire, himself firing with a captured enemy LMG. The enemy ceased fire. CSM Anscombe then passed through orders to the neighbouring platoons which enabled one of our own patrols to locate and drive off the enemy patrol who left two dead and one wounded prisoner behind.

By his steadiness and courage under fire, by his initiative and resourcefulness he set a very fine example. By his willingness to shoulder responsibility, he proved of the utmost assistance to his officers. During the whole time he has served as CSM he has shown unflagging energy and devotion to duty and has done far more than could normally be expected of him. In actual operations he has always shown outstanding ability and courage.’

Sold with copy recommendation and relevant extract from Commando Gallantry Awards of World War II.