Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Five: Bombardier J. A. Harris, 2 L.W. (Radar) Troop, Royal Artillery

1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; United States of America, Bronze Star, the reverse engraved ‘John A. Harris’, with riband bar and enamelled lapel bar in case of issue, extremely fine (5) £80-£120

United States of America Bronze Star London Gazette 17 October 1946.
The official citation states: ‘For meritorious service in connection with military operations, from November 1944 to April 1945. When it was found necessary to form a special section to co-ordinate and investigate results of the four detachments of the 2nd L.W. (Radar) Troop, Royal Artillery, Bombardier Harris was placed in charge by reason of his previous fine service. In this capacity he so distinguished himself by hard work and intelligence application that the efficiency of the early warning system in and around Antwerp was brought to a high standard. His achievement in connection with a vital part of the war effort reflects credit upon himself and the armed forces of the Allied armies.’

The original Recommendation states: ‘2 L.W. (Radar) Troop, R.A. was formed at the end of November 1944 to provide early warning for the A.A. defences against flying bombs. Early in December the troop was deployed in the defence of Antwerp to pass warning of approaching targets to the large number of American and British A.A. units defending Antwerp. Bombardier Harris joined the troop on formation and carried out his duties with distinction.
In February 1945 it was found necessary to form a special section to co-ordinate and investigate the results of the four detachments of the Troop. Bombardier Harris was put in charged of this special section and so distinguished himself by his hard work and intelligent application that the efficiency of the early warning system was brought to a very high standard. This meritorious achievement by Bombardier Harris was outstanding for one of his rank.’

Sold with Army Council enclosure for the Great War campaign medals; original typed citation for the Bronze Star; original extract from the Regimental Orders of 109 Heavy AA Regiment, R.A., congratulating the recipient on the award of the Bronze Star; and copied research.