Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A post-War 1953 ‘Malaya’ M.B.E. group of four awarded to Lieutenant Colonel J. C. Flitch, Royal Army Dental Corps

The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, M.B.E. (Military) Member’s 2nd type, breast badge, silver; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; General Service 1918-62, 1 clasp, Malaya, G.VI.R. (Major J. C. Flitch. R.A.D.C.) mounted for wear, very fine (4) £300-£340

Provenance: R. Schweder Collection, Dix Noonan Webb, September 2008.

M.B.E. London Gazette 30 October 1953:
‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Malaya during the period 1st January to 30th June, 1953.’

The original recommendation states: ‘Throughout the period covered by this citation Major Flitch has had the dental care of all ranks of GHQ, FARELF, among other units. His professional work has constantly been of the very highest quality and has earned the unstinted praise not only of patients but also of inspecting Dental Officers. Major Flitch has shown a zeal, steadfastness and devotion to duty which have been a great inspiration to all those with whom he has come in contact.’

John Crawford Flitch was born in November 1919 and received his commission into the Royal Army Dental Corps in March 1943. He commanded 902 Army Dental Centre, Singapore, advanced to Lieutenant Colonel in March 1958, and retired in November 1963.