British Groups

Lot 3809       British Groups

Estimate $2,000
Bid at live.noble.com.au
SOLD $1,800

GROUP OF SEVEN: Distinguished Service Order (GVIR) 1945; India General Service Medal 1908 - one bar - Northwest Frontier 1930-31; 1939-45 Star; Italy Star; Defence Medal; British War Medal 1939-45 (M.I.D.); Coronation Medal 1953. Lieut/Lieut Col J.M. Bannerman R.A. I.G.S. only named, impressed. Very fine.

Mounted as worn. D.S.O. London Gazette 28.6.1945. Lieutenant Colonel (Temporary) Royal Regiment of Artillery 'For gallant and distinguished services in Italy. During the whole of the operations by 5 Corps in forcing the Gothic Line (1 Sep-31 Dec 44) Col Bannerman has shown an exemplary devotion to duty. His regiment has been in support of the 4, 46, 56 and 1 Armd Divs. His guns have frequently been deployed in front of al others and his dash and enthusiasm in reconnoitring areas for their deployment and OPs, which recces were often carried out under shell fire, have ensured the support of his regiment whenever required. On 2 Sep this regiment was deployed only 3,000 yards from Saludecio. This place, reported clear, was in fact found to contain many enemy. The quick and accurate fire, personally directed by Col Bannerman, largely assisted in the capture. Again on 13 Sep in the Attack for the Passano-San Savino ridge, 70 Med Regt was in close support. One of the FOOs was killed, but Col Bannerman from his OP in S. Clemente although under continued shell fire was able to ensure the continuous support and definitely contributed to the success of this operation. In the recce for gun areas in the Cesena area, also on the Ronco and near Faenza, Col Bannerman showed the same disregard for his personal safety. Previously, during July, when under 13 Corps, this regiment was in support of the NZ Division. The support given by this regiment during the fight for San Michele was continuous, accurate and very effective. This was wholly due to Col Bannerman's enthusiasm and energy and in my opinion Col Bannerman's conduct and personal courage throughout has been exemplary.' M.I.D. L.G 24 August 1944: 'In recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Italy'. Lieutenant Colonel James Macleod Bannerman was born on 11 November 1907. Appointed a 2nd Lieutenant 2 February 1928. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel on 21 March 1955. He died on 15 January 1976. Together with: Copy of recommendation for Award of D.S.O; copies of relevant London Gazettes; copy of Army form W3121; copy of biographical list of officers which shows his promotions in detail and confirm awards; two photographs of recipient in later life; Ex Matthew Taylor Collection, Christies 19 July 1983.