A Collection of Awards for Burma Operations during the Second World War

A scarce ‘Immediate’ Second War Burma operations M.M. group of six awarded to Lance-Corporal K. A. Wilson, Royal Engineers, for his gallantry when clearing a heavy road block surrounded by mines, during the Worcester’s attack on Maram, 19 June 1944

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (2116522 L. Cpl. K. A. Wilson. R.E.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, 1 clasp, 8th Army; Burma Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted for wear, generally very fine (6) £800-1000

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, A Collection of Awards for Burma Operations during the Second World War.

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Provenance: DNW, December 1999 (sold as a single).

M.M. London Gazette 22 March 1945:

‘On 19th June 1944 this N.C.O. was in the Sapper Party with the two troops of tanks which were supporting the Worc’s attack on Maram. The column encountered a heavy tar barrel road block. The leading tank was hit by a 75mm but the other tanks brought down supporting fire and, eventually, smoke.

L/Cpl Wilson and the Party, removed two groups of eight mines and worked on the tar barrels until one Sapper was fatally wounded. On L/Cpl Wilson’s suggestion they then attacked the barrels with explosives. This effort removed all but three barrels.

At this point the leading tank was ordered to withdraw bringing up the Sapper Party with it. The officer and L/Cpl Wilson decided that they could finish the job without tank support. Under some cover from their own smoke they ran forward with one other Sapper and successfully cleared the remaining block.

The tanks were thus enabled to push on and shoot up the reverse slope positions which had been holding up the Worc’s.

L/Cpl Wilson’s initiative, cheerfulness and complete disregard for personal safety had been an inspiration to the Party and greatly assisted in the success of this operation.

I recommend that this N.C.O. is awarded the Military Medal for these actions.’

Kenneth Agneau Wilson served during the Second War with the 506th Field Company, Royal Engineers in Burma.

1 of 9 M.M.’s awarded to the Royal Engineers for services in the Burma theatre of operations.