Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Second War M.B.E. awarded to Lieutenant H. Rogers, Royal Naval Reserve

The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, M.B.E. (Military) Member’s 2nd type breast badge, silver and enamel, in Royal Mint case of issue and outer card transmission box, extremely fine £160-£200

M.B.E. London Gazette 11 July 1944:
‘For courage, leadership, and skill in fire-fighting, rescue work, and in towing ships clear of the fire during and after a heavy air raid on Bari.’

The original Recommendation, dated 12 March 1944 states: ‘For courage, resource, and devotion to duty in towing a damaged and deserted cased petrol ship clear of a conflagration following the Air Raid on Bari during the night of 2-3 December 1943. This he achieved by means of an Italian Tug, of which he took charge after organising a volunteer crew of British Naval Ratings.
Remarks of Administrative Authority: Highly recommended. I have received several reports of the gallant work of this officer.’

Sold with the Bestowal Document for the M.B.E., together with named Buckingham Palace enclosure; Central Chancery enclosure; and Admiralty copy of the recommendation; Commission Document appointing the recipient a Temporary Sub-Lieutenant in the Royal Naval Reserve; Admiralty enclosure for the recipient’s other Second War awards (1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star with France and Germany clasp; Africa Star with North Africa 1942-43 clasp; Italy Star; and War Medal 1939-45); and copied research.