Orders, Decorations and Medals

A good ‘Korea’ M.M. group of five awarded to Gunner H. J. Spraggs, 45 Field Regiment, Royal Artillery, attached in support of The Northumberland Fusiliers

Military Medal, G.VI.R., 2nd issue (14457810 Gnr. H. J. Spraggs, R.A.); Defence and War Medals; Korea 1950-53 (Gnr., M.M. R.A.) small official correction to naming; U.N. Korea, mounted as worn, good very fine (5) £2000-2500

M.M. London Gazette 17 April 1951. ‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Korea during the period 9th July to 31st December, 1950.’

The following details are taken from the official recommendation: ‘On 3 Jan 51 Gnr Spraggs was a member of C Troop OP party with 1st Battalion The Northumberland Fusiliers who were holding a position some 10 miles North of SEOUL. At about 0500 hrs rifle fire was heard close to the OP Command Post. Gunner Spraggs seized his Bren Gun and after two attempts managed to double to a position a few yards away where he could engage a party of enemy who were advancing on Company HQ and a mortar position close by. Though the enemy fired on him and threw grenades from extremely close range Gnr Spraggs cleared a stoppage in his Bren Gun and engaged them firing from the hip. He killed four outright and wounded several others thus driving them back.

Gnr Spraggs’ complete disregard of his own safety and courageous action undoubtedly saved Company HQ and prevented a very dangerous penetration.’

A total of 225 Military Medals were awarded for Korea 1950-53, including 121 to British units, of which 11 were won by the Royal Artillery. Sold with three copy news cuttings.