Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Second World War Middle East operations B.E.M. group of seven awarded to Staff Sergeant J. H. W. Gale, Royal Engineers, late Royal Warwickshire Regiment

British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (No. 1868311 Staff Sgt. John H. W. Gale); British War and Victory Medals (25010 Pte., R. War. R.), initials ‘J. H.’; 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45, generally good very fine (7) £350-400

B.E.M. London Gazette 14 October 1943: ‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the Middle East.’

The original recommendation states:

‘This N.C.O. has shown untiring energy and devotion to duty over a long period. He has been employed on the erection and maintenance of water and petrol installations for a factory, supply depots, railway marshalling yards and convoy bivouacs. His outstanding efforts in the face of continued overwork, and technical difficulties, have proved an example to all, and have contributed in a considerable measure to the success of these operational installations in supplying the forward troops.’

John Henry William Gale, who was serving in 54 C.R.E. at the time of the above award, was also mentioned in despatches (London Gazette 24 June 1943).