Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Eight: Commandant I. J. J. Moore, Rhodesian Defence Forces, late Royal Air Force

Rhodesia, Defence Forces’ Medal for Meritorious Service (558185X A/Snr. Commdt. I. J. J. Moore); 1939-45 Star; Italy Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; Rhodesia, General Service Medal (Asst Comdt I. J. J. Moore); Zimbabwe Independence Medal 1980 (06003) mounted in this order, together with European Confederation Cross; France, Veteran’s Medal; Belgium, Veteran’s Cross, last three all privately engraved to the recipient, generally very fine or better (11) £300-400

Ivor Moore was ‘born at Edinburgh Castle soon after the end of WWI. His father was a decorated war hero and the young Ivor grew up in military surroundings.

He was still a youth at the outbreak of WWII and as soon as he was able he joined the RAF. He qualified as a pilot and flew spitfires in operations over Europe and Italy. He retained his RAF commission after the war being posted to a number of European air stations serving British interests during a distinguished flying career.

With a growing young family he immigrated to Rhodesia. He became a staunch Rhodesian and his service with their military forces was rewarded with the award of the Meritorious Service Medal. After independence in 1980 he immigrated to South Africa.

He was an active member of the MOTHS for many years and with a life long military connection it is not surprising that Ivor developed an interest in military medals and badges. His interest in European awards was understandably influenced by his service in the RAF, while his collector friends who have been privileged to visit his study at his Robertson home in the winelands, will bear testimony to his keen interest in the Boer War.

Sadly, in recent years his health diminished. We were privileged to have met him.’ (Obituary refers)

Moore served as Lieutenant-Colonel, Officer Commanding of the Regional Protection Force Matabeleland, and was awarded the Defence Forces’ Medal for Meritorious Service 7 December 1979. He advanced to the rank of Commandant, Guard Force, the following year.

Sold with the following related documents: Rhodesian Commission appointing recipient as an Assistant Commandant, dated 11 December 1978; four named and dated veteran society certificates, all related to the last three commemorative awards; Masonic Certificate for the Grand Lodge of Rhodesia, Matabeleland, Bulawayo, dated 7 February 1952; copied research, including several photographic images of recipient from various stages of his service career, and a typed obituary.