Immediate Italy Military Medal, 1939-1945, Africa (1st Army ...

Hammer

£2,100

Immediate Italy Military Medal, 1939-1945, Africa (1st Army bar), Italy Stars, Defence Medal and BWM with MID oakleaf to 2614321 W.O. Cl II K.C. Waters G. Gds (only MM named, rest un-named as issued) MID oakleaf is mounted on ribbon bar, gum residue to reverses from mounting on card within frame.
Kenneth Charles Waters's MM was announced in the London Gazette dated 7th December 1944. He was also mentioned in dispatches announced in the London Gazette dated 11th January 1945.
The CO 3rd Bn Grenadier Guards recommended him for the DCM, but this was downgraded to an immediate MM: "During the night attack on 27/28 May on M. Grande by a Battalion of the Grenadier Guards, No 3 Company were the right forward company of the battalion and reached its objective. C.S.M. Waters of No 3 Company by his example of steadiness, materially assisted in the consolidation which was carried out under heavy shellfire and continual sniping.
About 0900 hours on 28th May, a counter attack by 150 Parachutists necessitated an alteration in the Company's positions, and C.S.M. Waters remained at his post until the operation was successfully carried out. Finally he walked under heavy machine-gun fire over to a wounded L/Corporal and carried him down the hill unassisted. His bearing and disregard for his own personal safety was an inspiration to all.
On all previous occasions in contact with the enemy since December 1942 in Tunisia, both as a Platoon Sergeant and C.S.M. this Warrant Officer has at all times shewn the utmost courage and his devotion to duty has been of the highest order."
He was subsequently killed in action aged 27 on 2nd August 1944 and is buried in Arezzo War Cemetery. With original MID certificate and typed citation, copied casualty list, CWGC, citation and letter notifying his spouse of the award of the MM. Glass will not be posted, but frame has been removed. Sold on behalf of the family, never before on the market. (See photo) (½B)