Four: Sergeant R. P. Walden, Royal Air Force

Defence and War Medals 1939-45; General Service 1918-62, 2 clasps, Malaya, Arabian Peninsula, with M.I.D. oak leaf (1397566 Cpl R. P. Walden R.A.F.) 2nd clasp loose on riband as issued; Royal Air Force L.S. & G.C., E.II.R., 2nd issue (1397566 Sgt. R. P. Walden. R.A.F.) mounted on card for display, generally very fine (4) £300-£400

M.I.D. London Gazette 18 September 1951:

‘In recognition of distinguished service in Malaya during the period 1 December 1950 to May 1951.’

R. P. Walden distinguished himself serving with the Royal Air Force in Malaya prior to receiving the A.O.C. 38 Group’s Commendation. A letter (included with the lot) to the recipient from Group Captain F. B. Sowrey (later Air Marshal Sir Frederick Sowrey, K.C.B., C.B.E., A.F.C.), Commanding Officer R.A.F. Abingdon, gives the following:

‘Congratulations on your award of the Air Officer Commanding No. 38 Groups Commendation in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

It is good to see that your leadership and high technical ability have been so recognised, and that the excellent work done by your Squadron during the recent crisis has not gone unnoticed.’

It is believed that the ‘recent crisis’ referred to in Sowrey’s letter refers to the Station’s supporting operations designed to ease the increased political tension in Cyprus. This involved the air lifting of four helicopters from Gutersloh, Germany to Cyprus. The Beverley aircraft of 47 Squadron was found to be ideal for the job because of its cavernous hold, which was able to accommodate either one Whirlwind or two Sycamore helicopters. Following this a continuous airlift was mounted to reinforce the Cyprus Garrison with the Life Guards and the Dragoons. These operations were solely the task of 47 Squadron.

Sold with the following original documents: M.I.D. Certificate, dated 18 September 1951; A.O.C. 38 Group’s Commendation Certificate, dated 13 June 1964; and letter of congratulation addressed to recipient at R.A.F. Abingdon with regard to A.O.C. Commendation, from Group Captain F. B. Sowray, A.F.C., dated 12 June 1964.