Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Second World War ‘Siege of Tobruk’ M.M. awarded to Sergeant Jack Leese, A/E Battery, 1st Regiment, Royal Horse Artillery

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (802777 Sjt. J. Leese. R.A.) mounted on original investiture pin, small edge bruise, otherwise toned, nearly extremely fine £600-800

M.M. London Gazette 19 March 1942. The original recommendation, for a Distinguished Conduct Medal, states:

‘This NCO has been a consistently fine example to the men of his gun detachment throughout the Siege of TOBRUK, and the recent campaign. His behaviour in action is always steady and unperturbed. An outstanding instance of his devotion to duty and indifference to danger occurred when on Dec 3rd his gun was, with others, supporting an Infantry attack on EL DUDA, from a position which was subjected to heavy concentrations of enemy shell fire. In spite of the most difficult conditions he kept his gun firing without interruption, and inspired his men to carry on.

By instances like this, which is one of many, he has produced an extremely good detachment. His devotion to duty, cheerfulness, and coolness, though shells were falling all round the gun, have been unfailing, and his work deserves the highest commendation.’