Orders, Decorations and Medals

A Second World War M.M. group of eight awarded to Sergeant G.W. Briley, Gordon Highlanders, late Cameronians

MILITARY MEDAL, G.VI.R. (3245247 A.W.O. Cl. 2., Gordons.); GENERAL SERVICE 1918-62, 1 clasp, Palestine (3245247 Rfmn., Cameronians); 1939-45 STAR; AFRICA STAR; ITALY STAR; FRANCE AND GERMANY STAR; DEFENCE AND WAR MEDALS, some contact marks but generally very fine (8)

M.M., London Gazette, 22 March, 1945. 'In recognition of gallant and distinguished service in North West Europe.' The following extract is taken from 'Life of a Regiment': Brigadier H. Murray bade farewell to both battalions of Gordons on the 12th. He was leaving for Italy. For the time being Lieut.-Colonel Hon. H.C.J.T. Cumming-Bruce assumed command of the 153rd Brigade and Major M. Lindsay that of the 1st Gordons. After sitting still under shell-fire for another whole day the 5th/7rh Gordons came forward on 14th August towards St. Sylvain which they found to be still a target for the German artillery and mortars. They were ordered to secure a wooded ridge south-east of the village and the attack, delivered in splendid style, was completely successful. Unfortunately the loss in officers was heavy, for Major Glennie, Captain Inglis, and Lieutenants Aston, Taylor, Birse and Scott were all wounded. Of other ranks eight were killed and thirty-nine wounded. Sergeant Birley (sic) of D Company proved a tower of strength in this engagement. After his company commander and the other officers were wounded and nearly half the men had become casualties he took command as to the manner born.