Medals to the Royal Tank Regiment from the Collection of Bill Green

A ‘Sidi Rezegh’ M.M. group of seven awarded to Corporal E. Coe, 2nd Royal Tank Regiment

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (2041302 Cpl., R. Tank R.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Burma Star; Italy Star; Defence & War Medals, extremely fine (7) £400-500

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, Medals to the Royal Tank Regiment from the Collection of Bill Green.

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M.M. London Gazette 24 February 1942.

“On the afternoon of the 21st November 1941, Cpl Coe was acting as a Tank Commander. During the action with enemy tanks, he saw that two other tanks of the sqaudron were in need of a tow to restart their engines. Although enemy tanks were very close, he manoeuvred his tank into position, and while under very heavy fire, dismounted to fix the tow ropes. In circumstances of great difficulty and danger, he succeeded in starting both tanks and making them fit to take part in the action. On the following day he kept his tank in action although the turret was jammed and the gun would only fire in one direction. He overcame this difficulty as best he could by enterprise, coolness and skilful manoeuvre. Throughout he showed great ability, initiative and complete disregard of danger, and his conduct set a very high example to his men.”

Awarded during the first armoured battle of Sidi Rezegh, during the break-out from and relief of Tobruk, 18-25 November 1941. Sold with a copy photographs and two letters from a former comrade.