Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A post-War 1949 ‘Malaya operations’ B.E.M. group of four awarded to Staff Sergeant J. G. Hills, Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers

British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 2nd issue; (5334915 S/Sgt. Joseph G. Hills, R.E.M.E.) Defence and War Medals 1939-45; General Service 1918-62, 1 clasp, Malaya, G.VI.R. (5334915 S/Sjt. J. G. Hills. R.E.M.E.) mounted for wear, light contact marks, therefore very fine (4) £200-£240

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, A Collection of Awards to the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.

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B.E.M. London Gazette 13 December 1949:
‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Malaya during the period 1st January, 1949, to 30th June, 1949.’

The original recommendation states: ‘S/Sgt. Hills has personally executed most of the urgent operational repairs and difficult recovery work which this workshop has been called upon to undertake. This load has been considerable and at times difficult and has involved him in many all night sessions frequently running into days.
By his own example of hard work and a proper realisation of operational urgency he has inspired those who work under him to a similar high regard for duty. His efforts have made a great contribution to the anti-bandit campaign.’

Joseph George Hills was born in Rotherhithe, London in January 1916. He enlisted in the Royal Berkshire Regiment in May 1934, and served in India from September 1937 - December 1945. Hills served in Singapore, September 1948 - February 1955, and was discharged in January 1958. He was subsequently employed at the Bookers Sugar Estates Ltd, Georgetown, British Guiana.