Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A fine Great War M.C. group of four awarded to Major W. S. Ponsford, 10th Battalion, Tank Corps, and Royal Field Artillery, formerly Natal Field Artillery, for conspicuous gallantry near Achiet-le-Grand on 21 August 1918

Military Cross, G.V.R., reverse inscribed ‘W.S.P., Achiet-le-Grand, 21.3.18’, in damaged case of issue; Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 4 clasps, Elandslaagte, Tugela Heights, Relief of Ladysmith, Transvaal (144 Corpl., Natal F. Arty.); British War and Victory Medals (Major) very fine or better (4) £1200-1500

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Collection of Medals to the Tank Corps formed by the late Bill Green.

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M.C. London Gazette 15 February 1919. The recommendation states ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty near Achiet-le-Grand on 21 August 1918. While in command of a section of tanks he showed great initiative and resource at a difficult period in the fight and had a complete grasp of the situation as far as it affected his command. The tanks of his section had proceeded into action when Captain Ponsford was informed by an infantry officer that the infantry were held up by heavy fire from the cemetery. At great personal risk he reconnoitred the area and collected some whippet tanks, and with these and the last tank of his section, which had not been into action, launched an attack on the enemy strong point at the cemetery, dislodging the enemy and enabling the infantry to gain their objective. His total disregard of personal danger and coolness throughout were an example to all ranks.’