The Simon C. Marriage Collection of Medals to the Artillery

A fine Second War ‘Home Service’ B.E.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant R. J. Street, 424 Battery, 138 Heavy Anti-Aircraft Regiment, Royal Artillery, for gallantry in saving life during an action with a German Flying Bomb at Aldeburgh, Suffolk, in November 1944

British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (1073615 Sgt. Reginald J. Street. R.A.); Defence and War Medals 1939-45; Army L.S. & G.C., G.VI.R., 1st issue, Regular Army (1073615 Sjt. R. J. Street. R.A.) good very fine (4) £600-£800

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Simon C. Marriage Collection of Medals to the Artillery.

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B.E.M. London Gazette 2 February 1945: ‘In recognition of gallant conduct in carrying out hazardous work in a very brave manner.’

The official recommendation states:

‘No. 1073615 W/Sgt. Reginald James Street, 424/138 H.A.A. Battery, R.A.

During an action against flying bombs on 5th November [1944] Sgt. Street as No. 1 of No. 3 Gun continued to engage a flying bomb until the last possible moment, when he ordered his detachment to take cover. No sooner had they done this than the flying bomb made a direct hit on his gun. Sgt. Street’s immediate thought was was for the safety of his men and seeing Gunner Cook running about covered in burning oil he, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, plunged through a blazing ammunition shelter and pushed aside Gnr. Chamberlain, who was endeavouring to beat out Cook’s flaming clothes with his bare hands; he clasped the latter to him and enveloped him in his own greatcoat and succeeded in beating out the flames, thus saving Gnr. Cook’s life.

His outstanding courage and heroism was a splendid example to all concerned.’

The War Diary of 138 H.A.A. Regiment for 5 November 1944 states:

‘ALDEBURGH 2020hrs 424 Bty. 1 Diver engaged. Rounds fired 31 BONZO 1 Cat “B” claim. This target was hit and set on fire coming in from the sea at zero feet it struck No. 3 gun at site S7 and broke up. The warhead did not explode. The fuel compartment was damaged and burning petrol spread over a large area. Casualties were 1 severe burns, 3 slight burns.’

Sold with copied recommendation and War Diary entry.