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

A Second World War B.E.M. group of six to Sergeant J. R. Odendall, Royal Marines

British Empire Medal, G.VI.R., 1st issue, Military Division (Sgt., P.O. X. 4187 R.M.); 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals, very fine (6) £220-260

B.E.M. London Gazette 4.5.1943.

Recommendation states: West and Odendall were taking part inField Training with their company on 29th January, 1943, near Dalditch camp, Exmouth. At about 2230 an aircraft came throught the clouds, which at that time were very low, flying in a S.E. direction, its port light clearly visible. The aircraft made a turn to port and was then heading N.E. when the pilot switched on his landing lights, veered round showing his starboard light and crashed into a wood less than a quarter of a mile away.

On hitting the ground there were two explosions and the plane burst into flames, and small arms ammunition began to explode in all directions. West and Odendall were leading members of a party which at once went to the scene of the crash. They saw a man moving and went to his help. They removed him out of reach of the flames, and then discovered a second member of the crew alive, lying under the port engine. This man was gravely hurt. One leg was broken, and he had serious burns. They carried him clear of danger and made him as comfortable as possible. They then made a third search to ensure that no one else was left alive.

It is certain that, although the first airman might possibly have crawled to safety in time, the man under the port engine owes his life to the courage and detirmination of the rescue party. tey showed no thought for their own safety.’

For this action, Temporary Lieutenant Oliver St. John Hamlin, R.M. was awarded the M.B.E. and Temporary Corporal (Acting Temporary Sergeants Wallace George West and Jacobus Russell Odendall, R.M. were awarded the B.E.M. Sold with copied research details.