Orders, Decorations and Medals

A Good Second War ‘Italy’ M.M. group of six awarded to Fusilier H. Fish, Royal Fusiliers, subsequently a prisoner of war

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (14209732 Fus., R. Fus.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, with 8th Army bar; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals, first medal with edge bruising, otherwise generally good very fine or better (6) £400-500

M.M. London Gazette 23 March 1944. ‘On 3rd December in the M. Camino area Fusilier Fish was attached to ‘Z’ Company for the attack on Point 819. The approach march lasted 12 hours over the very difficult terrain of Bare Back Ridge. As daylight broke the company was in a very exposed position on the top of the ridge and came under very heavy shell and mortar fire.Casualties were numerous and despite intense enemy shelling Fusilier Fish worked unceasingly throughout the day recovering wounded from exposed positions and carrying them to the R.A.P. When no more stretcher bearers were available he encouraged others to help. When his medical supplies were exhausted he again completely disregarded his personal safety and searched in exposed areas for further dressings which he successfully recovered.

When conditions were quieter on his own company front stretcher bearers were called for to assist the battalion on his left. He immediately volunteered and after collecting a small party rescued their wounded.

His endurance, courage and cheerfulness in the face of personal danger and fatigue was a fine example to the rest of the company. His actions were an inspiration to his comrades and did much to maintain a high state of morale.’

Fusilier Harold Fish was taken prisoner of war and held at Stalag 11A (Altengrabow).