Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Second World War ‘Tunisian campaign’ Immediate M.M. group of six awarded to Gunner Harry Moore, 52nd Field Battery, Royal Artillery; he was later mentioned for gallant and distinguished service in Italy

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (986021 Gnr. H. Moore. R.A.) minor official correction to number; 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, 1 clasp, North Africa 1942-53; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf, extremely fine (6) £600-£800

M.M. London Gazette 22 July 1943: ‘For gallant and distinguished services in the Middle East.’ The recommendation for an Immediate award states:

‘On 26/27 March, 1943, Gnr Moore was the operator of an 11 set of an F.O.O. party of 52nd Field Bty RA that went forward in support of a platoon of 4/6 Rajputana Rifles to capture Pt 680 (DELHI) in the hills WEST of MEDININE. This involved an all night approach march finishing with a very steep and difficult climb of 1200 feet, during which Gunner Moore was carrying a No. 11 set. Just before first light the party approached the summit, which it found held in force by the enemy. They were forced to withdraw half way down the feature, where they were pinned to the ground by very heavy Mortar and MG fire with the enemy in front and on both flanks, and in addition enemy patrols in the rear.

In spite of the difficult situation, however, Gnr Moore immediately established communication with the battery, which enabled repeated enemy attacks to be engaged and driven off. The enemy mortar and MG fire became so heavy that it was considered necessary to change the position of the OP three times. Gunner Moore only changed his position on definite orders to do so, as by this time the wireless set was the only means of communication for the whole party, the infantry set having been knocked out, and Gnr Moore was afraid that, if the position was changed, communication might be lost. Gnr Moore, however, regained communication each time, enabling fire to be brought down on the enemy again and again.

Owing to Gnr Moore keeping communication the party was eventually able to withdraw under cover of darkness. Even then Gunner Moore kept his set open to the last possible moment.

His devotion to duty,his cool bearing, and his complete disregard of personal safety under these most difficult conditions, were a continual source of inspiration to all who saw him.’

M.I.D. London Gazette 11 January 1945: ‘For gallant and distinguished services in Italy.’

Harry Moore was a native of Rawtenstall, Lancashire. Sold with original War Office letter forwarding the M.M. and a Post Card photograph of the recipient in uniform.