Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Second World War Operation “Ferdy” D.S.M. group of seven awarded to Sick Berth Attendant E. J. Burton, Royal Navy, for gallantry in a badly hit Landing Ship (Tank) in the assault on Vibo Valencia Marina in September 1943

Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (Si. B. At. E. J. Burton, C/MX. 109011); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, the first with contact marks and light edge bruising, thus very fine or better (7) £700-900

D.S.M. London Gazette 25 January 1944:

‘For gallantry, leadership and undaunted devotion to duty under heavy and continuous fire from the enemy during the landings on the Italian mainland.’

The original recommendation states:

‘This rating was serving in L.S.T. 65 which succeeded in entering the harbour and beaching while under continuous shell and mortar fire. The ship was hit many times and suffered some 40 casualties. S.B.A. Burton took complete charge of First Aid arrangements, and by his courage and devotion to duty, undoubtedly saved life and made possible the rapid and orderly evacuation of the wounded.’

Edwin John Burton was decorated for the above cited deeds in L.S.T. 65 during Operation “Ferdy”, the assault by 231st Infantry Brigade on Vibo Valencia Marina, some 25 miles behind the German line, on 8 September 1943. Owing to the fact the guns and vehicles she was carrying were urgently required ashore, L.S.T. 65, and one of her consorts, attempted to beach under heavy fire. The War of the Landing Craft, by Paul Lund and Harry Ludlam, takes up the story:

‘As the two L.S.Ts began their approach they came under heavy fire. L.S.T. 65, skilfully handled by Lieutenant-Commander Smith, R.N.R., at first avoided damage, but as she drew nearer the harbour she was heavily hit and set on fire. Increasing her speed to full ahead, Commander Smith charged the beach, extinguished the fires and clearing his jammed doors with a bulldozer, successfully discharged his cargo. The guns which the L.S.T. carried were brought into action in a few minutes and relieved what was fast becoming a very difficult situation. It was bloody work and the L.S.T., which had received more than 40 direct hits and suffered heavy casualties, had to be abandoned on the beach.’

Burton received his award at a Buckingham Palace investiture held in October 1944.