Lot 5140

Description

Group of Five: Military Cross (GVIR); 1939-45 Star; Pacific Star; British War Medal 1939-45; Australia Service Medal 1939-45. 1943 on first medal, NX76322 W.E.Young on 2nd to 5th medals. First medal engraved, Second to fifth medals impressed. Very fine.

Lieutenant William Edward Young, NX76322, 2/3rd Australian Infantry Battalion. Military Cross citation: 'At Gona on 24 and 25 November 1942, Lt Young led a patrol on the right flank of the enemy positions, guided another patrol and finally guided his Company in an assault against prepared enemy positions. During the first patrol, Lt Young shot two of the enemy and in the second patrol of the following day, he courageously moved forward with a leading scout to draw fire and thus locate enemy weapons and in the assault on the same day, continued to give directions to his Company commander after receiving multiple wounds in his legs. His sustained coolness and bravery was a fine example to his men. Lt Young exhibited the same quality of leadership in action at Templeton's Crossing on 18 October 1942 and at Divi from 5 to 11 November 1942. (L.G. 22 April 1943, p.1847). With copy of record of award. Ex Tom Hanley Collection.