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Auction: 25113 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 621

The Immediate 'Mine Clearance 1945' M.M. group of five awarded to Sapper J. McDermott, 204 Field Company, Royal Engineers, whose section was destroyed when a mine detonated in the back of their transport, despite his wounds the gallant Sapper shook off his injuries and rushed to rescue the wounded, having to be ordered to attend an aid post and returning immediately to work again

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (2040977 Spr. J. Mc Dermott. R.E.); 1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals, contact wear to first, overall very fine (5)

M.M. London Gazette 1 March 1945.

'On the afternoon of 17 Aug, 44 the above sapper together with the remainder of his section was clearing mines from the roadway near BERJOU South of the R.NOIREAU. Ten of the mines, which contained a new type of fuse were loaded into the section personnel vehicle to be moved to a central dump for destruction. In some manner one of these loaded mines exploded, detonating the remaining mines in the personnel vehicle. Of the total section of ten (including the NCO in charge and the driver of the vehicle) seven were casualties, five of whom have since died. Spr. McDermott was one of the three survivors.

Although suffering badly from shock and bruises caused by the terrific explosion and having no NCO left in command, this sapper with his two comrades immediately, on his own initiative, set about rescuing the injured.

The personnel vehicle was in flames, and PIAT, and rifle amn, and grenades were exploding in all directions. The flames attracted vigorous shelling by enemy artillery. Notwithstanding this, this sapper carried on with his work gathering the wounded together and bandaging them, until help arrived.

He refused to leave the scene although in need of attention himself, and continued to help the rescue party when it arrived, until all had been removed by ambulances. He was then ordered back to the First Aid Post, where he received attention, and, although he had the opportunity of being sent back to the Base by the M.O, he refused to do so and reported back to the Coy, again on his own initiative, to carry on work, although not in a physical condition to do so.

The courage, initiative and complete disregard for self displayed by this sapper is in accordance with the best traditions of the Corps, and worthy of the utmost praise.'

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Estimate

Starting price
£700