The Northern Ireland operations Q.G.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant M. J. Kirby, Royal Marines

Queen’s Gallantry Medal (Sgt. Martin J. Kirby, R.M., PO38833G); General Service 1962, 1 clasp, Northern Ireland (Mne. M. J. Kirby, PO38833G R.M.); South Atlantic 1982, with rosette (Mne. 1 M. J. Kirby, PO38833G R.M.); Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., E.II.R. (Sgt. M. J. Kirby, PO38833G, R.M.), mounted court-style as worn, good very fine and better (4) £5000-6000

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Ron Penhall Collection.

View
Collection

Q.G.M. London Gazette 26 April 1994:

‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Northern Ireland during the period 1 October 1992 to 31 March 1993.’

Martin John Kirby was one of three service personnel to be awarded the Q.G.M. under this heading, the other recipients being Warrant Officer Class 2 Marie Bernadette Holliday, Adjutant-General’s Corps (R.M.P.) and Staff Sergeant Anthony Thomas Keeton, Intelligence Corps. It is believed that all three of them were decorated for the same undercover field operation in the final period before the cease fire declaration, the circumstances of which remain classified. Interestingly, their awards are listed separately at the end of the relevant gazette, which otherwise contains numerous awards to members of the Special Forces for the Gulf War and Northern Ireland.

Provenance: Ex Spink, Medal Circular, March 1996 (Item 474).