Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria to coincide with the OMRS Convention

A rare Second World War M.M. and Bar group of six awarded to Lance Sergeant W. Penman, New Zealand Infantry, killed in action at the Sangro River, Italy on 30 November 1943

Military Medal, G.VI.R., with Second Award Bar (35902 L/Sgt., 2 N.Z.E.F. 1943); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, clasp, 8th Army; Italy Star; War Medal; New Zealand Service Medal, these last five unnamed as issued, together with New Zealand Memorial Cross (35909 Sjt., (M.M. & Bar)) nearly extremely fine (7) £2000-2500

M.M. London Gazette 15th June, 1943. The recommendation states: 'On the night of 2lst/22nd March, 1943, throughout the 25th N.Z Battalion's attack on Hill 201 at Djebel Tebaga, L/Sergeant Penman showed outstanding qualities of courage and leadership. During the reorganisation of the objective, this N.C.O., on his own initiative, led his section away to the left flank where the enemy was so fiercely attacked that they became completely demoralised and over 100 prisoners were taken. L/Sergeant Penman's example of coolness under fire during the attack and his exploitation after the objective was reached were of the highest standard.'

Bar to M.M. London Gazette 14th October, 1943. The recommendation states: 'On the night of 23rd October, 1942, during the attack on Meterya Ridge, Corporal Penman's Platoon Commander and Sergeant became casualties. He took over command of the Platoon and was personally responsible for obtaining assistance for many wounded members of his Platoon although suffering from wounds himself. Throughout the offensive action he showed excellent leadership and devotion to duty and his courage, determination and disregard for his own personal safety were a fine example and inspiration to those under his command.'

Tilson Penman was born in New Zealand on 17th January, 1909, and was a printer's machinist by trade. He enlisted in the New Zealand army at Trentham on 21st May, 1940 and after training, embarked for Egypt where he arrived on 12th December, 1940. He was wounded in action in Libya on 24th October, 1941, during the action for which he was awarded the bar to his Military Medal. (It is interesting to note that his M.M. was awarded for an action nearly five months later but that the recommendation for the M.M. was received just three days before that for his bar). Penman was promoted to Sergeant on 7th June 1943 and, after attending weapons and mines training courses between June and August, proceeded with his regiment to Italy. He was killed in action at Sangro River, Italy on 30th November, 1943, and was buried in the Military Cemetery at Sangro River.

Only four New Zealanders won the M.M. and Bar during the Second World War.