A Collection of Awards for Burma Operations during the Second World War

An ‘Immediate’ Second War 1945 Burma operations M.M. group of five awarded to Bombardier R. J. Bowler, 9th Field Regiment, Royal Artillery, for taking charge after his Battery Commander had been killed during the advance at Inya, 1 March 1945, and liaising directly with his Brigadier to keep the whole advance moving

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (950687 Bmbr. R. J. Bowler. R.A.); 1939-45 Star; Burma Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted for wear, minor edge bruising, very fine (5) £800-1000

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, A Collection of Awards for Burma Operations during the Second World War.

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M.M. London Gazette 21 June 1945:

‘For very gallant services in action. At Inya on 1st March 1945 whilst supporting an advance, the Battery Commander’s party was heavily shelled, one shell hitting the Armoured Observation vehicle and killing the Battery Commander.

Bombardier Bowler immediately took charge and with complete disregard for enemy shelling reorganised the party and kept me [Brigadier J. A. E. Hirst, C.R.A. 20th Indian Division] informed of the situation thus enabling an immediate redistribution of observation post officers to be made with a minimum of delay. Bombardier Bowler showed great bravery under shell fire and acted with great coolness, self-reliance and initiative. His aggressive reaction to the shelling so inspired his party that communications never faltered throughout a long and tiring day under constant shelling. His conduct during the whole day was of the very highest order.’