A rare Second War ‘Western Desert’ M.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant T. A. Oldale, No. 70 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (1360001 Sgt., R.A.F.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; War Medal, nearly extremely fine (4) £1600-1800

M.M. London Gazette 26 January 1943. The recommendation states ‘On the night of 13 September 1942, Sergeant Oldale was a member of the crew of an aircraft participating in combined operations at Tobruk. At )):30 hours the pilot was compelled to make a forced landing when the port engine caught fire. The landing was made without injury to the crew. After destroying all secret equipment the crew set out on a south east course taking with them maps, a sextant, a verey pistol and cartridges, 4 water bottles and a 10 gallon tank of water strapped on a ladder. Sergeant Oldale enforced a daily ration of half a thermos bottle of water for each member. Resting by day and walking at night the party had covered about 80 miles by the 6th night. During this time the only water found was in the radiator of a derelict troop transport. Three bottles were filled. All the members of the party were very weak and with the exception of Sergeant Oldale, were suffering from blistered feet. During the 7th night they were joined by a member of another aircraft who had escaped by using a parachute. The next night thee members of the party either drank or poured over their heads all the remaining water with the exception of half a bottle. Sergeant Oldale although suffering from lack of food and water and being very weak, continually helped other members of the party who were in a weaker state than himself. On the 10th night Sergeant Oldale and three other members decided to turn on an east north east course, and after walking 10 miles, two of the party were so weak that they were compelled to discontinue the journey. Sergeant Oldale and one other airman continued although almost too weak to stand. On the 12th night they saw a fire in the distance and made their way towards it. On arrival they found an Arab shepherd who gave them food and drink. They continued on their way and eventually came to a British motor transport concentration on the edge of Lake Maghara. They were finally taken to Air Headquarters, Western Desert. Sergeant Oldale displayed courage, resolution and endurance in keeping with the highest traditions of the Royal Air Force.’