Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Second War North Africa ‘Battle of Sedjenane’ M.M. awarded to Sergeant A. C. W. Sampson, Lincolnshire Regiment

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (4802327 L-Sjt. A. C. W. Sampson. Linc. R.) in named card box of issue, with named Buckingham Palace enclosure, extremely fine £800-£1,000

M.M. London Gazette 23 September 1943:
‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North Africa.’

The original Recommendation states: ‘This N.C.O. was in command of a 3" Mortar Detachment with “A” Company throughout the battle of Sedjenane on 3-4 March 1943. In face of heavy shelling and counter mortar fire he maintained his mortar in action throughout the battle, directing his fire with such accuracy that heavy casualties were inflicted on the attacking enemy. Corporal Sampson showed outstanding coolness and powers of leadership. The fire support provided by him was a major factor in “A” Company beating off all enemy attacks throughout the battle. The personal conduct and example of this N.C.O. under fire has been a feature of all actions.’

Alfred Charles Walter Sampson was born in Newport, Lincoln, on 8 January 1918 and attested for the Lincolnshire Regiment at Lincoln on 20 December 1937. He served with the 6th Battalion during the Second World War, initially as part of the British Expeditionary Force at Dunkirk, from 26 April to 3 June 1940, and subsequently in North Africa from 5 January 1943 to 15 March 1944, being awarded the Military Medal for his gallantry at the battle of Sedjenane on 3-4 March 1943. He saw further service with the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force from 16 March 1944, and further distinguished himself in Italy during an attack on Monte Romano, near Cesana, on 15 October 1944 (newspaper cutting with lot refers). Advanced Sergeant, he transferred to the Reserve on 30 April 1946, after 8 years and 131 days’ service.

Sold with the recipient’s Soldiers Service and Pay Book; various photographic images of the recipient; ‘Lincoln’ cloth shoulder titles; and much copied research, including copies of the recipient’s Certificate of Service Red Book.