Orders, Decorations and Medals

A Second World War ‘Normandy’ M.M. awarded to Serjeant E. Welford, 10th Battalion Durham Light Infantry

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (2056732 Sjt., Durh. L.I.) impressed naming, good very fine £1200-1400

M.M. London Gazette 19 October 1944.

Recommendation reads: ‘Sjt Welford was in command of a platoon near Rauray (France) on 29 Jun 1944. By his coolness, energy and leadership over a period of five hours, Sjt Welford succeeded with his platoon in defeating an attempt to infiltrate through the thick country on the right flank of the Bn. Enemy fire was very heavy and often at short range. Had the enemy succeeded in his attempts the position of the Bn. would have been serious. Throughout the action Sjt Welford’s bearing and courage were of the highest order.’

The 10th and 11th Battalions Durham Light Infantry, part of the 70th Infantry Brigade, were landed at Normandy with the 49th Infantry Division on 10 June 1944 and were committed in an attempt to outflank Caen. With support of tanks of the Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry, they captured Rauray and the high land beyond on 27-28 June. During the following days there was a German counter-attack by troops of the II SS Panzer Corps.

With copied recommendation.