Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A London Blitz B.E.M. group of six awarded to Robert Corke, an electrician with the Gas Light and Coke Company, formerly Colour-Sergeant, 12th London Regiment, late 12th Lancers

British Empire Medal, (Civil) G.VI.R., 1st issue (Robert Corke); 1914-15 Star ( British War and Victory Medals (10422 Pte. R. Corke. 12-Lrs.); Defence Medal; Efficiency Medal, Territorial, G.V.R., 2nd issue (6642085 C. Sjt. R. Corke. 12-Lond. R.) mounted as worn, the trio polished, good fine, otherwise very fine or better (6) £300-£360

B.E.M. London Gazette 1 August 1941:

‘When an enemy air attack was made in a gas works, fires were started in benzole and tar plants. Mr Brodie took charge of operations in the tar plant and, assisted by Mr James, fought the fires throughout the night. The men worked in extremely dangerous conditions surrounded by exploding tanks and ankle deep in tar pitch. More than once they were stuck in tar and had to be hauled out, but despite the dangers and difficulties they remained at their posts, got the fires under control and saved much valuable material. Mr Linney and Mr Corke also showed great courage and devotion to duty, working throughout the raid with utter disregard of their own safety and setting a fine example to the employees of the works, all of whom fought the fires with courage and determination.’

The above incident took place at the tar plant in Beckton Gas Works, Beckton, London, on the night of 19th/20th April 1941. William Brodie, Works Fireman, and Robert G. James, Pumpman, were each awarded the George Medal, whilst Robert Corke, Electrician, and Alfred T. Linnet, Works Fireman, were awarded the British Empire Medal. All four men were employees of the Gas Light and Coke Company.

Robert Corke served with the 12th Lancers in France and Flanders from 18 October 1915, attached to the 5th Machine Gun Squadron, and transferred to the Machine Gun Corps on 27 June 1916. Sold with copied research and original Discharge Certificate and Certificate of Transfer to Reserve relating to his brother Corporal S. W. Corke, Royal Engineers and K.R.R.C.