A rare ‘Suez’ M.M. pair awarded to Lance-Corporal James Crossland, 40 Commando, Royal Marines
Military Medal, E.II.R., 1st issue (RM.14422 Marine J. W. Crossland, R.M.); Naval General Service 1915-62, 2 clasps, Cyprus, Near East (Mne. R.M.) mounted as worn, nearly extremely fine (2) £3500-4500

M.M. London Gazette 13 June 1957. ‘In recognition of distinguished services in operations in the Near East, October to December, 1956: Lance Corporal James Willie Crossland, 40 Commando, Royal Marines.’

The following details are taken from the official recommendation: ‘Lance Corporal Crossland was the second-in-command of his section during the Allied Landings at PORT SAID on 6 November 1956.

Crossland and 4 men were led into an assault on an enemy held warehouse by their Commander. Just before entering the building 2 of the men were wounded by a grenade, but the attack was carried through. Just after the entry was made the officer was killed. It was then apparent that the further end of the warehouse was held by Egyptians who were determined to fight to the last. The section commander withdrew in order to obtain reinforcements. Crossland held his ground alone and continued to fire and throw grenades at the enemy. Soon, he ran out of ammunition, and the enemy advanced upon him. He still stood his ground and was preparing to use the butt of his sten gun when the reinforcing section arrived just in time to account for the remaining enemy.

Lance Corporal Crossland immediately turned to assist the 2 members of his section who were wounded and lying in the open outside the warehouse. Although under heavy fire from another position, with complete disregard for his personal safety he went out and dragged his wounded comrades to safety.

There were a further 4 rooms at the far end of the warehouse which still had to be searched. Crossland played a leading part in clearing these remaining rooms which contained 8 of the enemy. Throughout this action Lance Corporal Crossland showed outstanding courage in the face of the enemy and acted with great personal bravery accounting for a number of enemy. His actions inspired the men under him.’

Only 7 Military Medals were awarded for the Suez Operations; four awards to the Royal Marines who made the seaborne assault by helicopter, and three to the Parachute Regiment who made the airborne assault by parachute.