Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Second War B.E.M. group of three awarded to Sergeant J. Norman, Auxiliary Territorial Service

British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue, on lady’s bow riband (51513 Sgt. Joan Norman. A.T.S.); Defence and War Medals 1939-45, last two privately engraved ‘51313 W/Sjt. J. Norman B.E.M. A.T.S.’, generally very fine (3) £120-£160

B.E.M. London Gazette 10 April 1945:

‘Sergeant Norman enlisted in the Auxiliary Territorial Service in February 1941 and since that date she has by her perseverance, cheerful and unflurried disposition, and sound common sense been an inspiration to all serving with her. As Sergeant in charge of the Adjutant General’s Branch at Headquarters 1 A.A. Group, now 9 A.A. Group, she has shown outstanding ability and conscientiousness. This branch has continually been faced with a volume of work greater than anticipated by the War Establishment owing to the many exceptional calls made upon this Headquarters when in London and when suddenly five additional Brigades, ten all in all, were placed under its Command. At such times Sergeant Norman accepted great responsibility, virtually that of a staff captain without demur and with marked initiative. No call has ever been too great and she has consistently achieved both in herself and her immediate staff the highest standards in all that has been done. She has at all times shown an exceptional appreciation of her responsibilities and given a great example of unswerving devotion to duty.’