Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Five: Flying Officer J. R. Abbey, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve

1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals; France, Croix de Guerre 1939-1940; all unnamed, together with identity disk, ‘J. R. Abbey, Offr. C.E. 137676 R.A.F.V.R., Blood Group A2’, with chain and silver religious miniature medal, medals extremely fine (6) £80-100

France, Croix de Guerre London Gazette 1 January 1946.

Recommendation reads: ‘Flying Officer John Richard Abbey (137676, 2717 Squadron, Royal Air Force’ ‘This officer commanded a Rifle Flight in a Royal Air Force contingent which formed part of “R” Force, 21st Army Group from 27th August, 1944, to 26th September, 1944. This force was charged with seizing and holding Rouen, Brussels and Antwerp. He commanded the advance guard of one of the columns which entered Rouen on 31st August, 1944. In conjunction with the city authorities and the F.F.I. he did useful work in uncovering targets of special importance to the Intelligence Branches of the Allied Forces and was exposed to real dangers from encounters with enemy mines and booby traps. He showed exceptional keenness and good leadership in carrying out his tasks and in co-operation with the F.F.I.’

With medal card forwarding box addressed to ‘F/O J.R. Abbey, c/o Walter H. Willson Ltd., 1D King Street, St. James’, London, S.W.1’; with forwarding slip and copied recommendation extract. With a few service details. Croix de Guerre in card box.