Medals to The Gordon Highlanders and Associated Units from the Collection of A.J. Henderson

A Second World War Normandy and Eindhoven operations M.M. group of five awarded to Sergeant W. Park, Gordon Highlanders

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (2886271 Sjt. W. Park, Gordons);1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals generally extremely fine (5) £400-500

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, Medals to The Gordon Highlanders and Associated Units from the Collection of A.J. Henderson.

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M.M. London Gazette 24 January 1946. The recommendation states:

‘Sergeant Park commanded a section and was later a Platoon Sergeant in ‘B’ Company, 2nd Battalion, The Gordon Highlanders from the arrival of the Division in Normandy. He has been conspicuous by his loyalty, fine spirit and courage in the face of the enemy and has at all times been an example to those around him.

During the battle of Lutain Wood, south of Caumont, on 30 July 1944, his section was subjected to very heavy and accurate mortar fire. Sergeant Park led his section in the attack on the wood and by his obvious disregard for his own safety gave a lead to the rest of the Platoon. The objective was captured and many prisoners taken.

Again, during the attack across the railway line at Best, near Eindhoven, on 25 September 1944, Sergeant Park’s Platoon Commander was killed and the platoon suffered heavy casualties from accurate small arms fire from the flank. Sergeant Park, seeing that the attack was held up, advanced at the head of his section and led them to the railway line, thus setting an example which was followed by the remainder of the platoon.

By his fine example and courage he has always maintained a very high state of morale in his section and the platoon. His devotion to duty was at all times of the highest order.’

The 2nd Battalion, The Gordon Highlanders formed part of 227 Infantry Brigade, 15 Infantry Division, 8 Corps. Park later served in the Black Watch.