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Auction: 25111 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 716

(x) An immediate 1943 Middle East M.M. group of six awarded to Gunner H. Moore, Royal Artillery, who operated a No. 11 radio set in a forward position and was subject to heavy enemy attack in the hills west of Medinine, his communication kept the enemy under artillery attack during trying conditions allowing an attacking force to safely retreat, he was additionally 'mentioned' for his service in Italy in 1945

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (986201 Gnr. H. Moore.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, copy clasp, 8th Army; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45 with M.I.D. oak leaf, mounted for display, minor official correction to number on first, otherwise very fine (6)

M.M. London Gazette 22 July 1943. The original recommendation states:

'On 26/27th March 1943, Gnr MOORE was the operator of an 11 set of an F.O.O. party of 52nd Field Bty RA that went forward in support of a platoon of 4/6 Rajputana Rifles to Capture PT 680 (DELHI) in the hills WEST of MEDININE. This involved an all night approach march finishing with a very steep and difficult climb of 1200 feet, during which Gunner Moore was carrying a No. 11 set. Just before first light the party approached the summit, which it found held in force by the enemy. They were forced to withdraw half way down the feature, where they were pinned to the ground by very heavy Mortar and MG fire with the enemy in front and on both flanks, and in addition enemy patrols in rear.

In spite of the difficult situation, however, Gnr Moore immediately established communication with the battery, which enabled repeated enemy attacks to be engaged and driven off. The enemy mortar and MG fire became so heavy that it was considered necessary to change the position of the OP three times.

Gunner Moore only changed his position on definite orders to do so, as by this time the wireless set was the only means of communication for the whole party, the infantry set having been knocked out, and Gnr Moore was afraid that, if the position was changed, communication might be lost. Gnr Moore however, regained communication each time, enabling fire to be brought down on the enemy again and again.

Owing to Gnr Moore keeping communication the party was eventually able to withdraw under cover of darkness. Even then Gunner Moore kept his set open to the last possible moment.

His devotion to duty, his bearing, and his complete disregard of personal safety under these most difficult conditions, were a continual source of inspiration to all who saw him.'

M.I.D. London Gazette 11 January 1945 (Italy).

The Battle of Medenine, Tunisia, began on 6 March 1943 and forced the Axis forces out of and on to higher ground north and west of Medinine. Rommel left North Africa on 10 March and left General Arnim in command.

On 19 March 1943, XXX Corps commenced Operation Pugilist. The 50th (Northumbrian) Infantry Division managed to penetrate the line held by the 136th Armoured Division "Giovani Fascisti" near Zarat. Rain and the nature of the terrain prevented the deployment of tanks, aircraft or anti-tank guns, which left the infantry isolated. A counter-attack by 15th Panzer Division and the "Giovani Fascisti" on 22 March recaptured much of the bridgehead, 35 British tanks and 200 prisoners. British forces held their positions until darkness. On 24 March all the British attacking forces were recalled. XXX Corps prepared a new attack towards Tallouf, in which the 4th Indian Infantry Division would make a night attack on 23/24 March around the inland end of the line, coinciding with a wide left hook manoeuvre by Montgomery.

The 4th Indian Infantry fought with distinction in the Tunisia Campaign, right through to the fall of Tunis in May 1943, gaining a particular reputation for its prowess in mountainous country. The division had the honour of capturing General Arnim in Tunisia, bringing an end to the war in North Africa.

His Military Medal was sent on his instruction to a Mrs C. Lea, Rawtenstall, Ross, Lancashire; sold with a letter from The War Office dated 24 May 1946 and a photograph of him in uniform in Desert uniform.

Subject to 5% tax on Hammer Price in addition to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium.

Sold for
£950

Starting price
£500