Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria. Including a superb collection of medals to the King’s German Legion, Police Medals from the Collection of John Tamplin and a small collection of medals to the Irish Guards

A Rhodesian group of four to Major P. J. Morris, Rhodesian African Rifles, late King’s African Rifles

Zimbabwe Independence Medal 1980, officially numbered ‘09876’; Rhodesia Defence Forces Medal for Meritorious Service (Maj.); Rhodesia General Service Medal (T./Maj.); Rhodesia Exemplary Service Medal (Maj.) one or two edge bruises, generally good very fine (4) £150-200

Peter John Morris was awarded the Defence Forces Medal for Meritorious Service in November 1978, the accompanying citation stating:

‘Major Morris was appointed Officer Commanding on the opening of the Depot, The Rhodesian African Rifles, on 1 December 1975. Initially the Depot had a small staff and only a limited number of recruits passed through the establishment. However, in August 1977, operational requirements dictated that the output of trainees be greatly increased to provide soldiers for the Independent Companies Rhodesian African Rifles and the Battalions of the Rhodesia Regiment. To meet this requirement the Depot had to expand to accommodate 1200 recruits with a monthly throughput of 400 men. A very much condensed syllabus was also introduced to reduce the training period. Major Morris set about the re-organisation of the Depot with tremendous energy, determination and the enthusiasm of the truly professional soldier. His refusal to accept defeat enabled him to overcome the many training and administrative problems such as shortages of staff, equipment, buildings and other much needed facilities. His high standard of leadership and moral courage inspired the Depot staff to meet the challenge and so provide trained soldiers for field units.’

Sold with a quantity of original documents, newspaper cuttings and photographs, the former including several letters of appreciation from senior members of the Rhodesian Army.