Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

An ‘Immediate’ Second War ‘Italy theatre’ M.M. group of five awarded to Lance-Sergeant L. W. Etheridge, Hampshire Regiment, for his action at White Cross Hill, Salerno, on 17 September 1943. He subsequently died on 5 November 1944

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (5501813 A. Col. L. W. Etheridge. Hamps. R.); 1939-45 Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted court-style for wear, extremely fine (5) £1,400-£1,800

M.M. London Gazette 13 January 1944.

The original Recommendation states: ‘White Cross Hill, Salerno. This N.C.O. was in charge of the ‘18 Set at Company H.Q. of a Company taking part in an attack at approximately 01.30 hours on 17 September 1943. Throughout the attack, under machine gun fire, he maintained contact with Battalion H.Q. enabling the Acting Brigadier to keep in touch with the Company. Later, when the Company was ordered to withdraw, he went forward under fire and passed on the order. He remained with the covering party, still in contact with Battalion H.Q., and enabled the Company to withdraw successfully, through Artillery was being brought down on the enemy positions. His personal courage throughout was an example to all ranks.’

Leslie Wallace Etheridge attested for the Hampshire Regiment and served with the 5th Battalion during the Second World War in Italy. He died on 5 November 1944, and is buried in Meldola War Cemetery, Italy.