Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Second War 1944 ‘Italy operations’ immediate M.M. group of five awarded to Corporal S. C. Barnes, 5th Battalion, The Buffs, for his gallantry in leading his section in taking prisoners and repelling a Platoon strength enemy attack on his position during the advance near Ripi, 30/31 May 1944

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (6405804 A. Cpl. S. C. Barnes. The Buffs.); 1939-45 Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, nearly very fine (5) £1,000-£1,400

M.M. London Gazette 7 December 1944.
The original recommendation states: ‘On 30th May 1944, Corporal Barnes was a section commander in the leading platoon of the 5th Battalion, The Buffs, during the advanced on Point 271, near Ripi.
On arrival on the objective, Corporal Barnes led his section with great skill and daring and succeeded in taking five German prisoners. His platoon then consolidated the position on this feature. Shortly after placing his section a German despatch rider walked towards his position. Corporal Barnes immediately jumped up and chased after him, firing as he advanced.
Immediately following on this incident, his section was attacked by approximately a platoon of enemy. Corporal Barnes remained perfectly calm and commanded his section with great courage and determination. The attackers were driven off, having suffered severe casualties. There were no casualties at all in Corporal Barnes’ section.
During the following night, Corporal Barnes gave great help to the Company stretcher-bearers who were trying to evacuate the Company Commander, who had been badly wounded.
Throughout the whole operation, Corporal Barnes led his section with great skill and set a magnificent example to all the men in his section. It was largely due to his great efforts that the Company was able to hold on to the position against all enemy attacks.’

Sidney Charles Barnes served during the Second World War with the 5th Battalion, The Buffs as part of the 36th Infantry Brigade, 78th Division, XII Corps in Italy.