Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Second World War Anzio beachhead official replacement M.M. group of six awarded to Lance-Corporal P. V. Donaghy, Corps of Military Police

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (6977089 LCpl P Donaghy CMP R); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, the Military Medal an official replacement, the first two Stars cast copies, otherwise good very fine (6) £400-500

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, A Small Collection of Medals to The Military Police.

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M.M. London Gazette 20 July 1944.

The recommendation states: ‘Anzio Italy. In the early hours of 17 March 1944, enemy planes were active over the beachhead. One bomb was dropped in the area, which made a direct hit on a mortar carrier loaded with mortar bombs. The vehicle caught fire and there was great danger of damage to personnel and vehicles in the vicinity. Without regard for his own safety, Lance-Corporal Donaghy rushed to the carrier and commenced to throw out the mortar bombs clear of the burning carrier. These bombs were by then very hot and had begun to explode, but, regardless of the fact, Donaghy continued. He was wounded in the leg but continued till he received a serious wound in the back from the exploding mortar bombs. Hostile aircraft were still overhead and bombing the area. There is no doubt that the resourcefulness and quick action of Lance-Corporal Donaghy saved many casualties among personnel and vehicles and was responsible for the early controlling of the fire. Lance-Corporal Donaghy's behaviour was of the highest order. He was lying in his dug-out in the CMP lines, well clear of any possible danger from the carrier when it was hit.’

Peter Vincent Donaghy, from Moy, Co. Tyrone, previously served in the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, and was serving with 5 Divisional Provost Company at the time of his Military Medal exploits. He was wounded twelve days later, on 29 April 1944, and sent to No. 2 Casualty Clearing Station.