Lot 3870

Description

Group of Five: Military Medal (GVIR); 1939-45 Star; Pacific Star; British War Medal 1939-45; Australia Service Medal 1939-45. VX55058 Cpl A.J.Richards A.M.I.F. on first medal, VX55058 A.J.Richards on second medal. First two medals impressed, others unnamed. Very fine.

Cpl Arthur Joseph Richards M.M., 2/2nd Pioneer Battalion. M.M.: C.G.: No.43 pg 747 6Mar1947. 'Cpl Richards during the action at Leuwiliang, Java, on 4 Mar 42 displayed conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty. He was on patrol ona single track in an armoured car. He made contact with an enemy force. Cpl Richards immediately engaged the enemy by fire from his Bren LMG. Almost immediately the enemy replied with A/Tank fire, which disabled his vehicle and killed the driver. Cpl Richards dismounted and continued to engage the enemy with fire and held up their advance. Another armoured car immediately went to the assistance of Cpl Richards but it was hit by four A/Tank crew. As it was obvious that the enemy were in considerable strength, an attack by two platoons was ordered. Cpl Richards remained in his isolated forward position alone whilst the attack was being planned and continued to engage the enemy until our attack had succeeded'. Cpl Richards had his left leg amputated whilst a Prisoner of War in Thailand. With research.