An exceptional Second War ‘posthumous’ M.M. group of six awarded to Sergeant E. W. A. Osborn, 2nd (The Rangers) Battalion, King’s Royal Rifle Corps

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (6896157 Sjt., K.R.R.C.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, with 8th Army clasp, Italy Star; France and Germany Star; War Medal, nearly extremely fine (6) £600-800

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, Medals from the Collection formed by Peter Wardrop.

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M.M. London Gazette 19 October 1944. The recommendation states: ‘On the evening of 10 July 1944 Sergeant Osborn’s Company was operating in the area of Chateau de Fontaine, south of the River Odon. The company were formed up preparatory to moving when a heavy concentration of enemy shell fire came down on the area.

Sergeant Osborn who was taking cover beside a carrier saw a nearby Rifleman hit. Realising he was badly wounded and must have urgent medical attention, he left the cover of his vehicle, ran out into the shell fire, picked up the Rifleman and started to carry him to the ambulance car, about 250 yards away. He himself was hit twice on the way across but he kept on and got the Rifleman safely to the ambulance. Only when he had seen the wounded man safely onto a stretcher did he cease his efforts, when he collapsed of his own wounds.

The officer who saw this says that the concentration of fire was so heavy at the time that it was a miracle that Sergeant Osborn was not killed at once, and that his fearless action undoubtedly saved the life of the wounded Rifleman. The complete disregard for his own safety shown by this N.C.O. and his prompt action was a great example.’

Edward William Albert Osborn died from the effects of the wounds received in this action two days later, on 12 July 1944. He is buried at Secqueville-En-Bessin War Cemetery, Calvados, France.