Special Collections

Sold on 2 April 2004

1 part

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The Collection of Medals to the Tank Corps formed by the late Bill Green

Bill Green

Lot

№ 278

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2 April 2004

Hammer Price:
£1,850

A superb Great War M.C. group of four awarded to Second Lieutenant H. R. Blaker, 14th Battalion, Tank Corps, formerly 7th Dragoon Guards, for conspicuous gallantry near Preux on 7 November 1918

Military Cross, G.V.R.; 1914-15 Star (14089 Pte., 7-D. Gds.); British War and Victory Medals (2. Lieut.); together with corresponding miniatures, very fine (8) £1200-1500

M.C. London Gazette 8 March 1919. The recommendation states ‘For conspicuous gallantry and coolness in action near Preux on 4 November [1918].

This tank commander led his infantry into action through heavy shell fire. At one point finding them unable to get forward, and starting to dig in, he pressed forward with his tank under direct fire from two field guns, killed a large number of the enemy, and finally caused all opposition to cease. He then returned and brought on the infantry and successfully cleared the whole of the eastern portion of Preux and established the infantry in this place. During the day he was wounded in the head, but carried on. On the following day a tank was required for further operations. He immediately volunteered for this duty and proceeded to the action. Throughout he showed a fine example to his crew and to the infantry, and very materially assisted in the success of the operations.’