Orders, Decorations and Medals

A ‘Palestine’ M.M. group of five awarded to Corporal Albert Nolan, The Border Regiment

Military Medal, G.VI.R., 1st issue (3594730 Cpl. A. Nolan, Bord.R.); India General Service 1908-35, 1 clasp, North West Frontier 1930-31 (Pte., Bord.R.); General Service 1918-62, 1 clasp, Palestine (Cpl., Bord.R.); Defence and War Medals, mounted as worn, some very light contact marks, otherwise good very fine (5) £1500-1800

M.M. London Gazette 3 January 1939, ‘for gallant and distinguished service in Palestine.’

The following details are taken from the official recommendation: ‘For conspicuous gallantry while in command of a light automatic section engaged with an enemy band at KHIRBET AT TAIYIBA on 14 August 1938.

Corporal Nolan was in command on 14th August, 1938, of a light automatic section which was forming part of a line of stops in the round up of an enemy gang and which was somewhat separated from the rest of his platoon. While taking up a position in the dark he was confronted by an armed rebel about to fire at a scout at very close range. Corporal Nolan, without the least hesitation, sprang at the rebel and made him prisoner, thereby preventing the night advance being detected. Later Corporal Nolan noticed that part of the gang was trying to break through the line of stops on his flank some four hundred yards away. By his quick action he was able to bring fire to bear on them and head off the movement. Several casualties were inflicted on the gang and the remainder were driven along the line of stops. The country was hilly and covered with scrub, both of which favoured the gang’s escape. Corporal Nolan’s quick decision and rapid action, therefore, very largely resulted in the complete destruction of the gang. His prompt action earlier in the dark not only saved the life of his men and prevented the alarm being given to the enemy, but was carried out with complete disregard for his own personal safety.’

A total of 118 Military Medals were awarded for Palestine 1936-39, including 10 to the Border Regiment.