Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Second War 1945 Burma operations M.M. group of six awarded to Gunner H. G. Simpson, 9th Field Reigment, Royal Artillery, for repeated gallantry in the face of artillery shelling and sniper fire whilst employed at artillery observation posts - one of which being a church spire, which he occupied during the heavy fighting around the Japanese bunker positions at Nabet in February 1945. Subsequently, on two separate occasions, he went out into open group to rescue wounded men - one of which being his observation post officer, whom he carried back to safety under sniper fire

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (876352 Gnr. H. G. Simpson. R.A.); 1939-45 Star; Burma Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; General Service 1918-62, 1 clasp, Cyprus (Inspr. H. G. Simpson.), mounted as worn, light contact marks overall, very fine (6) £800-1200

M.M. London Gazette 15 January 1946:

‘For continuously gallant service. During the period from 16th February 1945 to 15th May 1945, Gunner (Driver Mechanic) Simpson H. G. was employed as observation post assistant, always doing far more that his fair share of work under arduous conditions in close contact with the enemy. At all times he showed great devotion to duty and acted with great coolness under fire with outstanding bravery.

During the four days fighting round Nabet from 4th February 1945 to 7th February 1945 the enemy, realising that the church spire was the only observation post in the area from which they could be observed, harassed the church with artillery fire gaining a fair percentage of hits. Except for meals, Gunner (Driver Mechanic) Simpson H. G. insisted on manning the church spire continuously throughout the hours of daylight. His complete disregard for his own safety whilst being shelled enabled him to observe enemy gun flashes and so fix their location. His unremitting observation of the area resulted in many worthwhile targets being engaged, and no movement of the enemy or chance of inflicting casualties on him being missed.

Again he was on the gun position near Talngon on 6th March, 1945 when it was heavily shelled. Without hesitation he went out into the open and helped carry in wounded men and then returned still under fire to fetch in some equipment.

On another occasion near Sigaung on 11th March, 1945 his observation post officer was wounded whilst crossing an open field, Gunner Simpson immediately went to his aid and though himself under continuous sniping fire carried him back to safety.

Throughout this period Gunner Simpson continuously thrust himself forward volunteering for extra work and taking upon himself responsibilities well beyond his rank. He at all times showed devotion to duty of a very high order and was continually exposing himself to enemy fire with complete disregard for his own safety and with the greatest courage. His complete lack of thought for himself, his dash and intrepid example was an inspiration throughout the whole period to all who came into contact with him and worthy of the highest praise.’

Huntly Gordon Simpson was a native of Penrhiw, Bala, Wales.

Sold with a family photograph of recipient.