A Second War ‘Italian theatre’ M.C. group of six awarded to Major G. B. Blaker, 2nd Battalion, Hampshire Regiment, who was killed in action on 1 July 1944 just six days after his M.C. winning exploits

Military Cross, G.VI.R. reverse officially dated ‘1944’, with original Royal Mint fitted case of issue; 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, with 1st Army bar; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals; together with original named transmission slip for campaign medals, nearly extremely fine or better (6) £1200-1500

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, A Collection of Medals to the Hampshire Regiment.

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M.C. London Gazette 7 December 1944.

The following is extracted from the original recommendation:

‘On 25 June 1944 the Battalion was ordered to capture the high ground astride the road just south of La Villa 3589. At about 1830 hours the left forward company was held up by heavy Spandau fire and snipers from pt. 379350892B company were ordered to form up behind this coy and take the objective which was pt. 379.

Major Blaker led his coy across under fire, directed the forming up personally and passed them over the S.L. in very quick time. The assault was uphill and subjected to heavy cross fire from M.Gs. and snipers, who were hidden in the corn. By his cool and fearless example this officer led his coy forward to the objective in spite of many casualties, with great dash and determination.
Having captured his objective and put the Boche to flight with only himself and 23 others, he swept over the hill and cleared the village of La Villa where he accounted for even more of the enemy in hand to hand fighting in the houses.’

Major Geoffrey Brook Blaker was killed in action in Italy on 1 July 1944 whilst serving with the 2nd Battalion, Hampshire Regiment. He was 25 years of age and is buried at Assisi War Cemetery, Italy.