Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Second War ‘Salonika’ B.E.M. group of seven awarded to Staff-Sergeant A. Q. Cooper, Southern Rhodesian Armoured Car Regiment and South African Armoured Corps

British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (SR.597978V. S/Sgt. Alexander Q. Cooper S.A.A.C.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; Africa Service Medal (SR.597978 A. Q. Cooper) mounted as worn, very fine, the BEM rare to a Rhodesian (7) £240-280

B.E.M. London Gazette 20 September 1945.
The recommendation, dated 29 April 1945, states: ‘This N.C.O., of the Agricultural Branch, has been called upon to perform specialist duties. These duties he has performed, showing outstanding ability, initiative, and vision. Due to a shortage of personnel provided, he has carried out duties normally allotted to officers, and during the critical times in January 1945 showed an outstanding capacity for leadership. His work in the interests of agriculture in Macedonia has been most marked and he is respected by all with whom he comes into contact.’

Alexander Quibell Cooper was born on 15 May 1904 and attested as a Trooper in the Southern Rhodesia Armoured Car Regiment on 1 December 1942. He transferred to Prince Alfred’s Guard, as part of 11th Armoured Brigade, on 3 May 1943, and then to the South African Armoured Corps (Tanks) on 26 March 1944. He served with the Agricultural Branch, attached Headquarters, Salonika District, Greece, and was awarded the British Empire Medal for his services in Macedonia. He was demobilised on 12 November 1945.

One of only 15 British Empire Medals awarded to Rhodesians during the Second World War.

Sold together with a Prince Alfred’s Guard cap badge and collar titles.