Australian Groups

Lot 4302       Australian Groups

Estimate $1,500
Bid at live.noble.com.au
SOLD $1,750

PAIR. Vietnam Medal; Vietnamese Campaign Medal. M.B. Ward R.A.N. Mounted for wear. First medal impressed second medal engraved. Very fine.

Together with: a set of miniatures; and the Queen's Medal of the Royal Australian Naval College, engraved on rim 'Michael B. Ward 1955.' This medal (66mm, 59.6gms 9ct gold) is awarded annually by the Commanding Officer of the Royal Australian Naval College to the Cadet Midshipman who is considered most deserving of the honour. It is awarded for gentlemanly behaviour, character, good influence amongst his fellows and officer-like qualities. The recipient has his name enrolled on an honour board at the college. The initials 'QM' appeared after his name in the navy list. Medal is in the Royal Mint case of issue. Commander Ward served in HMAS Vampire 14 November 1966 to 6 June 1968 and in HMAS Perth 27 June 1968 to 6 November 1969. During his second deployment he was awarded a Naval Board Commendation for his services and HMAS Perth was also awarded a U.S. Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation, viz: 'The Secretary of the Navy takes pleasure in presenting the Meritorious Unit Commendation to HMAS PERTH (D38) for service as set forth in the following: For meritorious service from 24 September, 1968 to March, 1969 while participating in combat operations against enemy aggressor forces in South-East Asia. As a member of the United States SEVENTH Fleet assigned to SEA DRAGON operations, HMAS PERTH contributed significantly to SEVENTH Fleet combat operations by conducting numerous successful fire misions against heavily defended enemy logistic installations and lines of communications. When PERTH was engaged by enemy shore batteries on two occasions, the combination of her crew members' spirited teamwork and capable leadership produced quick and precise evasive action to spare the ship any material or personnel casualties. PERTH's highly accurate fire inflicted heavy losses on enemy assets and was instrumental in assuring the success of allied oprations wherever she was stationed. The outstanding performance, superlative accomplishments, and inspiring devotion to duty displayed by the officers and men of HMAS PERTH throughout her deployment, reflect credit upon themselves and the Royal Australian Navy.'