Lot 4030

Description

Group of seven to Staff Sergeant Arthur Oscar Keating Royal New Zealand Artillery,
Distinguished Conduct Medal (GVIR) (25641 Bdr A.O.Keating 2NZEF. 1943); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star (8th Army); Italy Star; Defence Medal; British War Medal 1939-45; New Zealand Service Medal 1939-45. Distinguished Conduct Medal only named, impressed. Very fine.

DCM: London Gazette 22 July 1943. 'In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in the Middle East. On 9 April 1943 Bdr Keating was No 1 of a 6 pounder anti-tank gun, one of a Troop providing flank protection to the gun line of 4 NZ Field Regiment. When he was putting his gun into position a group of about 13 enemy tanks which had been by-passed by our armour made a sudden dash from a wadi nearby, against the soft vehicles behind the screen of armour. The enemy tanks spotted the gun going into position and opened up with machine gun fire wounding one of the crew. Bdr Keating promptly swung into action and engaged a Mk IV Special tank on which he scored one hit when a tank shell mortally wounded his layer. In an endeavour to save this man's life he then ordered the remaining two unwounded men to carry the wounded back for medical attention. He himself took over the gun entirely and continued laying, loading and firing at the advancing tanks, putting one out of action and registering at least one hit on a Mark VI. The attack was halted and our tanks then arrived to drive the enemy off. The prompt and cool action and tenacious devotion to duty of this NCO contributed largely to restoring a very critical situation. Furthermore, the sheer gallantry of his attempt to save the life of a comrade by remaining alone at the post of danger was an inspiration to all.'

Together with extract from the Official War History; brief details of recipient's military service; and relevant London Gazette entry.