A Second War ‘Italy operations’ M.B.E. group of eight awarded to Warrant Officer Class I, later Captain, C. H. Kite, Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers

The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, M.B.E. (Military) Member’s 2nd type, breast badge, silver; 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf; General Service 1918-62, 2 clasps, Palestine 1945-48, Malaya, G.VI.R. (7596983 W.O. Cl. 1. C. H. Kite. R.E.M.E.); Efficiency Medal, G.VI.R., 1st issue, Territorial (756983 [sic] W.O. Cl. 1. C. H. Kite. R.E.M.E.) mounted court-style for wear, last officially renamed, generally very fine or better (8) £200-£240

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, A Collection of Awards to the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.

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M.B.E. London Gazette 13 December 1945:
‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Italy.’

The original recommendation states: ‘1 Jan 45 to 3 May 45. This WO has worked in the progress office for the last 12 months. His untiring energy and drive and unsparingness of self, in no small measure enabled the workshops as a whole to meet their heavy commitments – particularly in those months immediately preceding the final battle. During these months he worked exceedingly long hours and imbued all under his command with a spirit of willingness and service.’

M.I.D. London Gazette 29 November 1945 (Italy).

Charles Herbert Kite served in the ranks during the Second War, and was commissioned Lieutenant in October 1954. He advanced to Captain in December 1959, and relinquished his commission in October 1962.