The Collection of Medals formed by the late John Seabrook

An Italian theatre M.M. group of six awarded to Sergeant E. C. F. Hyland, Royal Fusiliers

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (6461615 Sjt. E. C. F. Hyland, R. Fus.); 1939-45 Star; Italy Star; Defence & War Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaf; Efficiency Medal, Territorial, G.VI.R., 1st issue (6461615 W.O.Cl.2., M.M. R.F.) contact marks and a little polished, otherwise nearly very fine (6) £500-600

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Collection of Medals formed by the late John Seabrook.

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M.M. London Gazette 6 April 1944. The recommendation states: ‘On the 14th December at Caldari, the enemy brought down very heavy fire on Sgt. Hyland’s platoon which had advanced to the outskirts of the village. Heavy casualties were suffered but Sgt. Hyland realised that the position must be maintained. He visited and encouraged all sections at a critical stage, in doing which he had continually to expose himself to mortar fire and snipers. He showed great powers of leadership during this period of reorganisation.

On the same night he took out a Recce Patrol to find out if the enemy were still occupying a position which had previously been unsuccessfully attacked. He forced the enemy to give away their positions by going right up and throwing grenades into suspected positions. He brought back most important information. Throughout the battle he showed himself to be fearless and a capable platoon commander.’