Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

An unusual Military Division ‘British Forces in Belize’ B.E.M., E.II.R. M.S.M. group of three awarded to Sergeant C. E. Jones, Royal Signals

British Empire Medal, (Military) E.II.R. (22541015 Sgt. Charles E. Jones. R. Signals.); Army L.S. & G.C., E.II.R., 2nd issue, Regular Army (22541015 Sgt. C. E. Jones R. Signals); Army Meritorious Service Medal, E.II.R., 2nd issue (22541015 Sgt C E Jones R Signals) minor edge bruising overall, otherwise good very fine (3) £300-£400

B.E.M. London Gazette 30 December 1978, the recommendation states:

‘Sgt. Jones is a Long Service List NCO attached to the Royal Signals in British Forces Belize. His job involves a high degree of both pressure and responsibility. It includes office work and continual lengthy journeys by vehicles over cart track type roads in the heat and humidity of the harsh Belize climate.

Sgt. Jones is a specialist and is probably the most expert person in his own particular field in the Army. Because of these skills he is now on his fourth one year extension and has served almost continuously in Belize for four and a half years. The climate and conditions are such that the normal permanent staff tour is 18 months and extensions thereafter are not recommended on medical grounds.

Sgt. Jones has been required to work long hours in remote and isolated locations. His results have been outstanding and have made an invaluable contribution to the Force. He has shown selfless devotion to duty and his sustained hard work, high standard, willing acceptance of a heavy work-load and cheerful approach have been a splendid example and influence to all. Many younger men would have failed to maintain the pace Sgt. Jones has set and achieved.

All in all Sgt. Jones’ performance has been exceptional and thoroughly deserving of recognition. He has no possibility of promotion and his efforts have been wholly due to his loyalty to his superiors and the Army. He is strongly recommended for an award.’

Charles Eric Jones served with the Joint Services Signals Unit, Belize, from August 1973 - May 1975 and October 1975 - June 1978.