Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Second World War ‘North Africa’ M.M. group of six awarded to Guardsman A. J. Clarke, 6th (Motor) Battalion, Grenadier Guards, for his gallantry during the attack on the ‘Horseshoe’ position, Tunisia, 16/17 March 1943 - a prelude to the assault on the Mareth Line; during which the 201 Guards Brigade suffered heavy casualties when they unexpectedly encountered two minefields during their attack on the position

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (2612147 Gdmn. A. J. Clark. [sic] G. Gds.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, 1 clasp, 8th Army; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, very fine (6) £1,200-£1,600

M.M. London Gazette 26 August 1943. The recommendation states:

‘During the attack on the Horseshoe position Gdsmn. Clarke volunteered to accompany an officer who was going to make his way through the enemy, who by then had got behind and surrounded his Company, to Bn. H.Q. in order to obtain assistance.

On the return journey, while guiding the reinforcements up to the Company, the officer was killed. Undeterred by this, Gdsmn. Clarke continued with the greatest courage and coolness leading the reinforcements through the enemy up to his own Company. His determination, courage and devotion to duty provided a most inspiring example.’

Alfred Clarke served during the Second World War with the 6th (Motor) Battalion, Grenadier Guards as part 201 Guards Brigade, 7th Armoured Division, 8th Army in Tunisia. He distinguished himself during the attack on the ‘Horsehoe’, 16/17 March 1943, a hilly feature heavily defended by the German 90th Light Division that dominated the main Medenine/Mareth Road. The position was required to be captured prior to the assault on the Mareth Line. Not only did the men of 201 Guards Brigade encounter dug-in seasoned troops, but they also had to tackle two minefields which they were unaware of. Casualties were high as a consequence, with 201 Guards Brigade suffering over 38 officers and 500 other ranks killed, wounded or taken prisoner.