{"title":"North America-Canada-Groups \u0026 Single Decorations For Gallantry-Military Cross","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"wwii-canadian-awards-for-action-in-sicily-chemical-warfare-analysis-c2446","title":"Wwii Canadian Awards For Action In Sicily \u0026 Chemical Warfare Analysis","description":"\n Military Cross, George VI GRI (dated 1943 on the reverse); 1939-1945 Star; Italy Star; France and Germany Star; Defence Medal; Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Overseas Bar; War Medal 1939-1945; and United States: Legion of Merit, Officer Grade. Court-mounted, all but the U.S. medal were plated by the veteran, original ribbons, identifying card pasted to the reverse, extremely fine. Accompanied by copies of his Attestation Paper, Service Records, Canadian Army Particulars of Active Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Death Notification, Ontario Provincial Police Report and various letters and correspondence.\n \nFootnote: Neil Wallace Dickson was born on January 25, 1907 in Manitou, Manitoba. He completed secondary schooling at Manitou in 1922, which was followed by his completion of three years of Civil Engineering at the University of Manitoba but he was unable to complete his degree as he ran into financial difficulties. He attended the Canadian Officer Training Corps from 1923 to 1925 and was a member of a Geodetic Survey Team in 1925. Dickson was employed with Hollinger Consolidated from 1925 to 1933, first as a Surveyor, then as Assistant Manager. He signed his Non-Permanent Active Militia of Canada Attestation Paper on June 11, 1930, naming his next-of-kin as his father, William Wallace Dickson of Manitou, stating that he had one years' previous military service with the Manitoba Mounted Rifles from June 1927 to July 1928, that he was Single and that his trade was that of Mechanic. He attended Annual Training at Camp Hughes from June 30 to July 11, 1930 and was struck off strength on December 23, 1931. He returned to civilian life, first taking a position as a Mine Superintendent in 1934, before doing Geological Survey work for mining interests from 1935 to 1936. Dickson seems to have run afoul of the Ontario Provincial Police, Haileybury Detachment, facing charges in relations to his state of drunkenness, which caused him to forge cheques. The incidents occurred on December 15, 1934 and November 26, 1935 and he plead guilty to all charges. He was employed as an Underground Superintendent of a Mine from 1936 to 1937, and later as an Underground Superintendent for Jellicoe Mines in Geralton, Ontario, from 1937 to his enlistment in 1939. Dickson enlisted with the Royal Canadian Engineers on September 15, 1939 at Winnipeg, Manitoba, naming his next-of-kin as his mother, Mrs. Bella Dickson of Winnipeg and stating his trade as that of Surveyor and Miner. He trained as a Sapper and proceed overseas in June 1940 in the rank of Sergeant. Following a stint with the Officer Training Corps, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in December 1941, then as a Lieutenant in January 1942, while serving with the 3rd Tunnelling Company, of which he became second in command and promoted to Captain. He is on record as having been with the Royal Canadian Engineers, No. 1 Engineers Holding Unit in April 1941, and later, the Royal Canadian Engineers, 12th Field Company and as having attended the Bomb Disposal Course at Canadian Military Headquarters in 1943. Dickson was awarded the Military Cross as a Lieutenant, at the age of 36, as mentioned in the Canada Gazette on September 25, 1943 and CARO\/3791 on November 6, 1943, for service with 3 Canadian Field Company, for operations in Sicily. He was recommended for an immediate award by Lieutenant-Colonel G. Walsh, Chief Royal Engineer, 1 Canadian Infantry Division and supported by Major-General G.G. Simonds, General Officer Commanding 1 Canadian Infantry Division. He was with Headquarters, 30 Corps (July 31 to August 1, 1943) where he was supported by Lieutenant-General O.W.H. Leese; with Headquarters, 8th Army (August 3 to 6, 1943); and with 15 Army Group Headquarters (August 7 to September 7, 1943). His Military Cross citation reads as follows: \"During the night 21\/22 July 1943 this officer was in charge of a detachment of engineers ordered to carry out a bridging operation south of Leonforte, Sicily. On arrival the site was found to be under direct enemy fire. Lieutenant Dickson carried on with his duties with complete disregard for his own safety, setting by his personal bravery an example to his men of courage and devotion to duty of the highest order.\" He was repatriated in March 1944 and posted to No. 1 District Depot in Winnipeg, then employed at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa with the D.S.D.W. as a Technical Intelligence Officer. Dickson was posted to Washington, D.C. in the rank of Acting Major from January 1945 for duty as a Technical Intelligence and Liaison Officer, where he served until July 1946 in the United States War Department, Military Research Section. He was promoted to the rank of Major on September 24, 1945. In a report from Lieutenant-Colonel C.A. Krug in Washington, dated October 24, 1945, he stated that Dickson was \"An intelligent officer, highly efficient and capable in the performance of his duties. His record with the U.S. War Dept is one which reflects credit on the Canadian Army.\" He went on to state that \"His experience and training with the U.S. War Dept should make him increasingly useful as a Technical Intelligence Officer. I recommend this application for Continuing Service.\" Dickson was awarded the American Legion of Merit, Officer, as published in the Canada Gazette on June 8, 1946 and CARO\/6619 on June 10, 1946, his citation stating \"Major Neil W. Dickson, Royal Canadian Engineers, rendered meritorious service as a research analyst and intelligence officer, Military Intelligence Service, War Department General Staff from 1 January to 2 September 1945. In this capacity, he made substantial and valuable contributions to projects and publications on the subjects of engineer and chemical warfare equipment of the German and Japanese forces. Major Dickson's loyalty to the war effort and his unstinted service contributed notably toward a unified Allied Intelligence effort, and to the successful conclusion of the war.\" Dickson was recalled to National Defence Headquarters and appointed the Head of Technical Intelligence Branch, Deputy Minister of Intelligence, an appointment he held until October 1946, where he entered the Design Branch of the Royal Canadian Engineers. He is credited with having served in Canada, the United Kingdom, Continental Europe (France), the Central Mediterranean Area (Italy) and the United States during the Second World War. He was accepted for the Canadian Army (Active Force) on October 1, 1946 but was forced to retire on Medical Grounds, as he suffered from Asthma, Chronic Psoriasis, and Functional Dypepsia (chronic disorder of sensation and movement (peristalsis) in the upper digestive tract), with his \"Resignation of Commission\" coming on June 6, 1947. In his Department of Veterans Affairs Confidential Report, dated June 6, 1947 at No. 10 District Depot, in Winnipeg, his Army Counsellor, Major B.D. Jones noted that \"This officer (Dickson) has demonstrated ability of high order which has been recognized by Military Authority both through promotion to Field rank and by the nature and responsibilities of appointments given him. Because of physical disabilities he now finds his hopes for a military career dashed, a fact which is a considerable shock to him.\" He went on to state that Dickson was not sure of what his future employment would be but something in the engineering field seemed applicable. He had experience as a surveyor and geologist with mining companies but his pre-service employers were no longer in business. However, Major Jones believed that there could be probable future developments in Northern Canada that might prove to be fruitful, allowing Dickson employment and using his appropriate skills and education. Dickson by this time was married to Lillian Barbara Dickson and they had one child between them. He died at Veteran's Hospital in Victoria, British Columbia, on November 22, 1972, at the age 65.\n \n","brand":"eMedals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46109965713685,"sku":"C2446","price":1700.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/9105\/2053\/files\/img_09_1c611932-9faf-41f2-b26a-0649068282b7.jpg?v=1692842602"},{"product_id":"the-awards-of-canadian-cpt-gcrogers-mc-royal-flying-corps-c0453","title":"The Awards Of Canadian Cpt. G.c.rogers Mc, Royal Flying Corps","description":"Captain George Clarence Rogers, Royal Flying Corps, who was \"attacked\" while flying, by superior forces of Germans; severely wounded, and died, October 1917. Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued; 1914-15 Star, impressed (77256 L\/CPL G.C. ROGERS 7-CAN.INF.BN.); British War Medal, impressed (CAPT. G.C. ROGERS); Victory Medal (Unnamed). Military Cross, London Gazette, 26 September 1917: \"For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty on several occasions. He has rendered valuable service to the artillery in ranging them on hostile batteries. In order to carry out the shoots successfully he has flown long distances over the line under very heavy anti-aircraft fire, returning nearly in every case with his machine badly damaged by pieces of shell, and although frequently attacked by hostile aircraft, he engaged and drove the off with scarcely any interruption of the shoot.\" George Rogers was born on September 21, 1892 in Brandon, Manitoba to parents Mr. and Mrs. Elias Rogers. His father was the president of the Crows Nest Coal \u0026amp; Coke Company and also held extensive lumber interests in Barrie, Ontario. Just prior to the war, George had moved to Lethbridge, Alberta where he was employed as a clerk at the Bank of Nova Scotia. When war broke out, he traveled east and completed an aviation course. On November 6, 1914, George Rogers enlisted with the 30th Battalion CEF. Lance Corporal Rogers proceeded directly to France and upon his arrival on May 4, 1915 was taken on strength by the 7th Battalion CEF. He served with distinction on the frontlines in France and Belgium for a total of 18 months, rising to the rank of Lieutenant. On November 21, 1916, Lieutenant Rogers realized his dream when he was taken into the ranks of the 52nd Squadron of the Royal Flying Corps and commissioned with the rank of Flying Lieutenant. A very capable aviator, Flying Lieutenant Rogers performed observational duties and range finding missions for various BEF artillery batteries. He was also believed to have been the flyer responsible for bringing down the famous German fighter pilot Immelman The Falcon. In August 1917, he was promoted to Captain and a month later, he received the Military Cross for bravery. On October 27, 1917, while flying over enemy lines, Captain Rogers came under heavy fire and was severely wounded. He managed to bring his badly damaged plane back 20 miles to his airfield and land safely. On October 30, 1917, Captain Rogers succumbed to his wounds. He was laid to rest at Zuydcoote Military Cemetery. In addition to the Military Cross, George Rogers received the 1914\/15 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal. His mother received the Memorial Cross and death plaque in honour of her son. Captain George C. Rogers of Winnipeg and Lethbridge, Alberta flew BE2e's and RE8's with one of the corps squadrons, No. 52. Rogers joined the RFC overseas from the CEF and accompanied No. 52 Squadron to France from Britain in November 1916. The BE2e, a modification of the BE2c, was not much of an improvement and was equally defenceless. The RE8, a replacement of the BE2 types, went into service in 1916 and its first appearance in France was with No. 52 Squadron. A two-seater, it was armed with a synchronized forward-firing machine-gun operated by the pilot, and the rear-positioned observer had at first one and later two Lewis guns. Rogers had an oustanding career with No. 52 Squadron and his name appeared often in RFC communiques. The descriptions of his work lacked the colour and excitement found in the reports of those who had shot down enemy aircraft but represented successful and vital observations of great importance. Typical of his artillery observation work were flights described in RFC communiques for August 13 and September 21, 1917 respectively: The 264th Siege Battery obtained five direct hits on a hostile battery, destroying one pit and damaging another with observation by Lieut. Rogers, who also ranged the Third R.M.A. on to another hostile battery where a gun pit was destroyed. The 69th Siege Battery, with the same observation, destroyed two gun pits and damaged a third, six O.K.'s being obtained........Seven direct hits were obtained on a hostile battery where two gun pits were destroyed by the 69th Siege Battery with observation by Lieut. Rogers, No. 52 Squadron. This officer also ranged the 64th Siege Battery on to another hostile battery where a direct hit was observed. Rogers was wounded on October 27th, 1917 but managed to bring his machine back 20 miles to his airfield. He died of his wounds three days later. He was buried at Zuydcoote Military Cemetery, France. Sold with his British Columbia Regiment, Duke of Connaught's Own Rifles cap badge of his original unit, three photographs and copies of his Attestation Paper, Service Records, London Gazette Citation and reseach papers.","brand":"eMedals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46110008082709,"sku":"C0453","price":6000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/9105\/2053\/files\/cga761a.jpg?v=1692843081"},{"product_id":"a-first-war-canadian-military-cross-for-the-rescue-of-wounded-officer-m0019-1","title":"A First War Canadian Military Cross For The Rescue Of Wounded Officer","description":"WWI MC Group of Three, Lieutenant Thomas N. Rowling, 87th Infantry Battalion \"Canadian Grenadier Guards\" - Military Cross, GRV; British War Medal (LIEUT. T.N. ROWLING.); and Victory Medal (LIEUT. T.N. ROWLING.). Naming is officially impressed. Un-mounted, replacement ribbons, dark patina on the silver medals, very light contact, extremely fine. Accompanied by copies of his Attestation Paper, Citation as it appeared in the London Gazette 30901, page 11043 on September 16, 1918 and research papers from the Canadian Great War Project website.\n \nFootnote: Thomas Noble Rowling was born on January 18, 1885 in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, England. He signed his Attestation Paper as a Private (457824) with the 87th Infantry Battalion \"Canadian Grenadier Guards\", on July 8, 1915, in Montreal, Quebec, at the age of 30, naming his wife, Mrs. Hilda Rowling of Montreal (later of Holme House 2, Cheltenham Parade, Harrogate), stating that he had no previous military service, that he was Married and that his trade was that of Electrician. The Battalion was raised in Quebec with mobilization headquarters at Montreal under the authority of G.O. 151, December 22, 1915. The Battalion sailed on April 25, 1916 from Halifax, Nova Scotia, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel J.P. Rexford with a strength of 36 officers and 1,026 other ranks and served in France and Belgium with the 11th Infantry Brigade, 4th Canadian Division. While in Europe, Rowling was later promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. He was awarded his Military Cross for actions that he took in saving the life of another officer, his citation appearing in the Third Supplement to the London Gazette 30901 of Friday, September 13, 1918, dated Monday, September 16, 1918, page 11043, and in the Canada Gazette on September 11, 1918, page 1604: \"For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in immediately organising and leading a party to search for an officer whose patrol had lost touch with him during the night. He searched until broad daylight before finding the officer, who had been seriously wounded 300 yards in front of the line. He exposed himself to sniping and machine-gun fire, and his faithful and thorough search is worthy of great praise.\" (C:19)\n ","brand":"eMedals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46111996182805,"sku":"m0019-1","price":2635.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/9105\/2053\/files\/img_02_c5c357b2-9eaf-4578-9ed7-e7a15b0d520a.jpg?v=1692850785"},{"product_id":"a-first-war-canadian-military-cross-for-passchendaele-1917-c3317","title":"A First War Canadian Military Cross For Passchendaele 1917","description":"A First War Canadian Military Cross for Passchendaele 1917 - Military Cross, George V; British War Medal (LIEUT. H.J. JACKSON); and Victory Medal (LIEUT. H.J. JACKSON). Naming is officially impressed on the First World War pair, the MC is un-named. Un-mounted, original ribbons, dark patinas on the MC and BWM, light contact, near extremely fine. Accompanied by three colour photocopies of his Military Cross citation card.\n \nFootnote: Hector John Roderick Jackson was born on March 27, 1892, in Karachi, India (now Pakistan), the son of Dr. Moses J. Jackson and Rosa Juliet Jackson. He was a resident of Aldergrove, British Columbia when he signed his Attestation Paper as a Lieutenant with the 6th Field Company, Canadian Engineers, on October 21, 1915, in North Vancouver, British Columbia, at the age of 23, naming his next-of-kin as his father, Dr. M.J. Jackson of Aldergrove, stating that he had no previous military service, that he was not married and that his trade was that of Driver and Bridge Carpenter. During his Medical Examination, it was noted that the \"first joint of (the) left index finger missing\" on Jackson's left hand. In England, he was transferred to the 10th Field Company, Canadian Engineers, which later became the 10th Battalion, Canadian Engineers. Lieutenant Jackson was with the 10th Battalion, Canadian Engineers when he was awarded the Military Cross for actions taken at Passchendaele, the announcement for the award made in the Second Supplement to the London Gazette 30507 of Friday, February 1, 1918, on Monday, February 4, 1918, page 1607 and in the Supplement to the Edinburgh Gazette 13205 of Wednesday, February 6, 1918, page 579. His citation appeared in the Fourth Supplement to the London Gazette 30780 of Tuesday, July 2, 1918, on Friday, July 5, 1918, page 7932 and in the Canada Gazette of Monday, August 26, 1918: \"For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in marking out and digging a trench under heavy fire. Having completed the work, he made a reconnaissance, with two sappers, to look for wounded, and finding two brought them five miles to the dressing station.\" by authority of Watson's despatch R.O. 1506 of December 30, 1917. Jackson is on record has having been gassed on November 4, 1918, surviving the attack and was later promoted to Captain with the 10th Battalion, Canadian Engineers. Captain Hector John Roderick Jackson died on January 25, 1920, at the age of 27, as the result of a tragic accident, after returning from the war. He was riding a bicycle home from a symphony concert he had attended and was hit by a drunken taxi driver on the Connaught Bridge over False Creek in Vancouver. He suffered a severe head injury, died in hospital a week later and was buried in Mountain View Cemetery, Vancouver, British Columbia, Grave Reference: Block 45. Plot 16. Lot 2.\n ","brand":"eMedals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46113191198997,"sku":"C3317","price":2800.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/9105\/2053\/files\/img_06_08e3b5ad-ac48-4f60-b4f5-38bf39ea3471.jpg?v=1692852687"},{"product_id":"a-19th-battalion-military-cross-group-for-gallantry-on-hill-70-c3756","title":"A 19Th Battalion Military Cross Group For Gallantry On Hill 70","description":"A 19th Battalion Military Cross Group for Gallantry on Hill 70\n\n \n\nMost Excellent Order of the British Empire, Officer (OBE) GRI (silver gilt, un-marked); Military Cross, GRV (silver, un-named); British War Medal (CAPT. R.W. CATTO.); Victory Medal with MID Oak Leaf (CAPT. R.W. CATTO.); Canadian Volunteer Service Medal; and War Medal 1939-1945. Naming on the First World War pair is officially impressed. Un-mounted, most with original ribbons, the OBE in a hardshelled case (marked \"M.B.E.\" on the lid and maker marked \"Royal Mint\" on the inside lid), the MC in its hardshelled case of issue, gilt wear evident on the VM, contact marks on the BWM, near extremely fine. Accompanied by his CEF For Service At The Front Badge (bronze and enamels, numbered \"278695\" on the reverse, 22.3 mm, screwback) and his General Service Badge (sterling silver, marked \"STERLING\" and numbered \"658805\" on the reverse, 14.5 mm x 22.2 mm, screwback).\n\n \nFootnote: Ronald Wallace Catto was born on June 9, 1893 in Toronto, Ontario, the son of James Alexander Catto and Edith Caroline Catto (nee Ellison). He attended the University of Toronto from 1911 to 1915, while working part-time in the offices of J.M. Lyle, Wickson \u0026amp; Gregg, and Darling \u0026amp; Pearson, graduating with honours from the Department of Architecture in 1915 (B.A.SC.). He is listed on the University of Toronto Roll of Service 1914-1918. Catto went overseas shortly thereafter and enlisted as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Royal Flying Corps in August 1915, his father listed as his next-of-kin. He was named Temporary Lieutenant and posted to the General List on May 24, 1916, then joined the Army, taken on strength at the Canadian Army Service Corps Training Depot. He left for the French theatre on September 20, 1916, arriving the next day and joining his new unit, the 19th Infantry Battalion. He was appointed Acting Captain on November 12, 1916 and named Temporary Captain on April 12, 1917. Lieutenant (Acting Captain) Ronald Wallace Catto, 19th Infantry Battalion was awarded the Military Cross for actions taken during the Battle of Hill 70, on August 15, 1917, the announcement appearing in the Fourth Supplement to the London Gazette 30340 of Tuesday, October 16, 1917, on Tuesday, October 18, 1917, page 10712. This was followed by the publication of his citation, which appeared in the Fourth Supplement to the London Gazette 30561 of Tuesday, March 5, 1918, on Thursday, March 7, 1918, page 2945 and in the Canada Gazette on April 13, 1918: \"Lt. Infy. (A.\/Capt.) Ronald Wallace Catto, For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in commanding his company during an attack. He led them with great dash and personal gallantry, capturing seventy prisoners and inflicting severe losses on the enemy. After consolidating he beat off three determined hostile counter-attacks, in which more prisoners were taken and many of the enemy were killed. His coolness and sound judgment under trying conditions and his energetic initiative contributed much to the success of the operations. His example was a splendid inspiration to his men.\" The citation was amended in the Canada Gazette of April 20, 1918, page 3654 and re-amended in the Canada Gazette of May 11, 1918, page 3916. In an article that appeared in the University of Toronto newspaper, \"The Varsity\", on September 26, 1917, it was noted that Captain Ronald Wallace Catto had written a recent letter to his father, Mr. James A. Catto, of 211 Roxborough Street, Toronto, stating \"I have a surprise for you\", but not outright stating that he had won the Military Cross. While with the 19th Infantry Battalion, in addition to the aforementioned actions at Hill 70, Catto participated in actions at Amiens, Arras, Cambrai, Lens, Passchendaele, Somme, Valenciennes and Vimy. Catto was attached to the the 5th Infantry Brigade for Instruction, from January 2 to August 30, 1918, then posted to the 5th Canadian Infantry Brigade Headquarters as a Staff Learner, from August 31st to September 3rd, before being re-attached to the the 5th Infantry Brigade. Later that Fall, he was posted to the 11th Canadian Infantry Brigade as a Staff Learner, from October 24, 1918 to January 18, 1919, at which point he proceeded to England, to 4th Canadian Division Headquarters in London and was posted to the 1st Central Ontario Regimental Depot at Witley, followed by a posting to the 3rd Reserve Battalion on February 24, 1919. He was struck off strength of the Overseas Military Forces of Canada, embarking for Canada on August 12, 1919, arriving in Halifax, Nova Scotia shortly thereafter. Catto was struck off strength upon general demobilization on April 23, 1919 at Military District No. 2 in Toronto, credited with having served in England and France with the General List, the Canadian Army Service Corps Training Depot, the 19th Infantry Battalion, the 4th Infantry Brigade, the 5th Infantry Brigade, the 11th Infantry Brigade, 4th Divisional Headquarters and the 1st Central Ontario Regimental Depot, entitled to wear the War Service Badge, Class \"A\". For his First World War service, he was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal with MID Oak Leaf. After the war, Catto moved to Detroit, Michigan in 1919, where he formed a partnership with J. Will Wilson as Wilson \u0026amp; Catto, Architects \u0026amp; Engineers and was active in Detroit from 1919 to 1922. During this period, he married Marjorie Ruth Myers (born September 16, 1895) on January 21, 1920 in St. Marys, Blansford Township, Perth County, Ontario, a short drive from Detroit. Catto returned to Toronto in 1922 and opened an architectural office under his own name, assisted by his younger brother Douglas E. Catto. In 1925, the brothers formed a new partnership of Catto \u0026amp; Catto and specialized in residential and commercial design. Ronald W. Catto was an articulate advocate of apartment house construction in the 1920's when the public perception of this new building type was obscured by examples of tenement house construction in other cities. His lengthy essay in support of courtyard apartment prototypes appeared in the Toronto Star Weekly, on February 27, 1926. He also demonstrated a keen interest in retail shop design and wrote extensively on the subject in 1933 (Royal Architectural Institute of Canada Journal, Volume X, November 1933, pages 178-185). He was among a dozen architects invited to make a radio broadcast on contemporary architecture in 1935 and presented his views on commercial building aesthetics (Royal Architectural Institute of Canada Journal, Volume XII, February 1935, page 33). After the dissolution of the brother's partnership in 1939, Ronald and Marjorie Catto moved to Ottawa, residing at 413 Riverdale Avenue, maintaining an architectural practise. He served with the Canadian Infantry during the Second World War with the Veterans Guard of Canada, was commissioned as a Lieutenant Colonel on April 15, 1942 and was stationed at Farnham, Quebec on October 19, 1942. Lieutenant Colonel (Acting Colonel) Ronald Wallace Catto, MC, Veterans Guard of Canada, Ottawa was awarded the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, Officer (OBE), one of many recipients named for New Years' Awards, the announcement appearing in the Second Supplement to the London Gazette 37408 of Friday, December 28, 1945, on Tuesday, January 1, 1946, page 135: \"The King, on the occasion of the New Year, has approved the award of 440 honors to members of the Canadian Army. The list, as announced today by National Defense Headquarters, included: Six officers appointed companions of the Order of the Bath; Twenty-nine officers appointed Commanders of the Order of the British Empire; Seventy-five appointed officers of the Order of the British Empire, and 107 officers and 50 warrant officers are appointed Members of the Order of the British Empire. Four additional Members of the flame Order (civil division). Twelve officers appointed Members of the Royal Red Cross while 24 more are appointed Associates of the Royal Red Cross; 133 other ranks are awarded the British Empire Medal.\" For his Second World War service, he was awarded the Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and the War Medal 1939-1945. Catto retired from practising architecture after 1950 and died in Bracebridge, Ontario on December 27, 1965, at the age of 72, his death notice appearing in the Globe \u0026amp; Mail on December 30, 1965, page 25. (C:17)\n \n\n\n","brand":"eMedals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46113358479637,"sku":"C3756","price":2685.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/9105\/2053\/files\/a_19th_battalion_55c3c22928dd5.jpg?v=1692852917"},{"product_id":"a-second-war-military-cross-citation-to-lt-howitt-28th-canadian-armoured-regiment-c4120","title":"A Second War Military Cross Citation To Lt. Howitt 28Th Canadian Armoured Regiment","description":"Original typeset two-page citation for Lieutenant Henry Robinson Howitt, Troop Officer, \"B\" Squadron, 28th Canadian Armoured Regiment, for actions in the North West Europe theatre in 1944-45, in black ink on a thin paper stock, 203 mm x 330 mm, stapled together in the upper left corner, foldmarks, extremely fine. Footnote: \"At Bergen op Zoom, Holland, on 29 October 1944, Lieutenant Howitt commanded the first tank to cross the canal at the northern part of the city and the fire which he was able to bring upon the enemy caused the enemy casualties in great number and also assisted the infantry in holding the position which was counter-attacked on three occasions. During this operation he handled his troop with great tactical skill and his deployment of his troop during the counter-attacks did much to establish the bridgehead firmly in our hands. During the winter months of 1944-45 this officer, on many occasions, acted as Forward Observation Officer of shoots conducted by his squadron in support of raids across the Maas River made by our infantry. His utter disregard for his own safety in finding positions from which to observe while wholly exposed to enemy fire won him the admiration of all associated with him. \"On 6 March 1945 in an outflanking move on the town of Veen, Germany, Lieutenant Howitt was in command of a force consisting of two tanks and a section of infantry. He was ordered to seize a cross-roads. Although exposed to heavy shelling and high velocity fire, Lieutenant Howitt led his force to the objective and inflicted severe casualties on the enemy. On reaching the objective he was able to inflict further casualties by skillful application of the artillery fire working in his support. Direct hits were made on enemy self-propelled guns and infantry, bringing about such confusion that a force on the left flank was able to gain their objective with few casualties. \"From 8 April 1945 to 25 April 1945 Lieutenant Howitt acted as Rear Link Officer during a period of heavy fighting leading up to and including the Kusten Canal bridgehead. Due to the fact that the troops were dispersed in areas far distant from the squadron headquarters it was necessary for Lieutenant Howitt to carry out normal administrative work in a very hazardous country. These areas were constantly under sniper, small arms and mortar fire but, despite danger and physical hardship brought about by lack of sleep for days on end, Lieutenant Howitt always maintained an adequate supply of ammunition, petrol and food to the forward elements. During all this time his never-failing courage was a source of constant inspiration to those serving with him and the ingenuity he displayed in getting supplies forward under adverse conditions had much to do with the successful outcome of the operation.\" Lt. Howitt shipped home from England in February, 1946. \n","brand":"eMedals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46117952454933,"sku":"C4120","price":65.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/9105\/2053\/files\/a_2276.jpg?v=1692859270"},{"product_id":"a-canadian-military-cross-bar-group-to-captain-bunn-for-crossing-the-canal-du-nord-c4141","title":"A Canadian Military Cross \u0026 Bar Group To Captain Bunn For Crossing The Canal Du Nord","description":"Military Cross (M.C. Passchendaele \/ Nov. 8.9. 1917 \/ Bar to M.C. \/ Canal du Nord \/ Sept. 27, 1918 \/ CAPT. V.W. BUNN. \/ Presented by his Majesty King George V. \/ April 5 1919.); British War Medal (A. CAPT. V.W.BUNN.); and Victory Medal (A. CAPT. V.W. BUNN.). Inscription is engraved on the reverse of the MC, the First World War pair are officially impressed. Mounted to a suspension, light contact, near extremely fine.\n\nFootnote: Victor William Bunn was born on May 24, 1890 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the son of John Robert Bunn and Vashti Elizabeth Bunn. He was the second of five children born to the couple: Charles (born 1886), Thomas (born 1892), Marguerite (born 1893) and John (born 1895). Their father, John Bunn, had just rejoined the Hudson Bay Company and was serving as a Clerk in the Lac La Pluie District when Victor was born. The family relocated to Rat Portage (later Kenora), Ontario by 1891. In 1893, John Bunn was in charge of the saleshop for the HBC, a position he held until 1901 when he went into business for himself. By 1906, the family had left Kenora and was living in Selkirk, Manitoba. Young Victor is documented as having had measles in his childhood and typhoid in 1897 and made a \"good recovery\" from both. Victor Bunn attended St. John's College in Winnipeg and became a Civil Engineer. He signed his Officers' Declaration Paper as a Lieutenant with the 107th Infantry Battalion \"Winnipeg Battalion\", on May 15, 1916 at Winnipeg, at the age of 25, naming his next-of-kin as his father, John R. Bunn of Winnipeg, stating that he belonged to an active militia, the 99th Mounted Rifles, that he was not married, that his religion was Church of England and that his trade was that of Civil Engineer. The Battalion was raised and mobilized in Winnipeg, Manitoba under the authority of G.O. 151, December 22, 1915. The Battalion sailed September 18, 1916 from Halifax, Nova Scotia, aboard the S.S. Olympic, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel G. Campbell with a strength of 32 officers and 965 other ranks, arriving in Liverpool, England on the 25th. In England, the Battalion was re-designated the 107th Pioneer Battalion and was to serve in France in that capacity. He proceeded overseas for service in the French theatre, from Witley Camp on February 25, 1917, disembarking at Boulogne, France the following day. He was wounded but remained at duty, on August 15, 1917 and was to later take two leaves: ten days to Paris, France in October 1917 and fourteen days to Rome, Italy in February 1918. Lieutenant Victor William Bunn, 107th Infantry Battalion was awarded the Military Cross, the announcement appearing in the Third Supplement to the London Gazette 30530 of Friday, February 15, 1918, on Monday, February 18, 1918, page 2162. His citation appeared in the Third Supplement to the London Gazette 30801 of Tuesday, July 16, 1918, on Thursday, July 18, 1918, page 8479 and in the Canada Gazette of August 17, 1818, page 658 and reads as follows: \"For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. When in charge of a working party, which was heavily shelled, he displayed exceptional skill and courage in manoeuvring his men and keeping them together. He personally took two men who had been wounded to a \" pill-box,\" and helped to dress their wounds. His example greatly inspired his men and enabled them to finish their task under very heavy hostile shell fire.\" When engineer battalions were formed in 1918, Bunn was appointed to the 3rd Battalion, Canadian Engineers. He was with this unit when he was admitted to No. 3 Canadian Field Ambulance on June 12, 1918, where he was diagnosed with \"Impetigo\" (bacterial infection of the surface of the skin, which is contagious and is caused by strains of both staph and strep bacteria, the symptoms including small blisters and dark or honey-colored crust that forms after the pustules burst), the doctor noting the \"Contusions to his face\" and after ten days' treatment, was discharged to duty on June 22nd. Lieutenant Victor William Bunn, M.C., 3rd Battalion, Canadian Engineers was awarded the First Bar to the Military Cross, the announcement appearing in the Second Supplement to the London Gazette 31219 of Friday, March 7, 1919, on Saturday, March 8, 1919, page 3234. His citation appeared in the Second Supplement to the London Gazette 31583 of Friday, October 3, 1919, on Saturday, October 4, 1919, page 12258 and in the Canada Gazette of November 15, 1919, page 5 Sup. and reads as follows: \"For gallantry and devotion to duty in the construction of a pontoon and trestle bridge over the Canal du Nord and Agache river at Sains Marquion during the battle on 28th September, 1918. By his skill and energy he succeeded in getting bridging material forward under heavily shelled roads, and constructed three bridges for field guns and horse transport in three and a half hours. (M.C. gazetted 18th February, 1918.)\". He is also documented as having been Mentioned in Despatches. Lieutenant Bunn was to be Acting Captain with the 3rd Battalion, Canadian Engineers, effective September 5, 1918, the announcement appearing in the Supplement to the London Gazette 31341 of Tuesday, May 13, 1919, on Thursday, May 15, 1919, page 6100. Captain Bunn was transferred to the 2nd Battalion, Canadian Engineers in early March 1919 and proceeded to England on March 27, 1919. In his Medical History of an Invalid, dated March 31, 1919 at Bramshott, Captain Bunn was getting over a bout of Influenza, the symptoms of which had been traced back as far as seven and a half weeks earlier, while in Belgium on February 8th. The doctor noted that he had \"DAH\" (Disordered Action of the Heart, otherwise known as Soldier's Heart or Effort Syndrome, and was thought to result from a combination of over exertion, mental stress and fatigue), with impaired function of the heart due to the Influenza. However, by the date of the report, Bunn had no enlargement of the heart, his pulse was at rest, with no symptoms of heart disease. It was also noted that he had had his nose fractured just prior to enlistment, the doctor stating that Bunn \"now complains of some obstruction in the left nostril\", but that he was \"breathing clear when the other nostril is stopped\" and had \"never had any trouble with (his) heart until after having Influenza\". He was given a clean bill of health and declared \"Fit for General Service\". At the Investiture of King George V in Buckingham Palace on April 17, 1919, Bunn was decorated with the Bar to his Military Cross. He was posted to F Wing, Canadian Concentration Camp at Kinmel Park, North Wales and was struck off strength to Canada, embarking England aboard H.M.T.S. Empress of Britain on April 26, 1919. Bunn was discharged upon demobilization on May 9, 1919, his Discharge Certificate dated January 13, 1920 at Ottawa, credited with having served in Canada, England and France, entitled to wear the War Service Badge, Class \"A\", number 185680. In his Will, dated September 12, 1916 at Camp Hughes in Manitoba, he bequeathed his real estate and his personal estate to his mother, Mrs. Vashti Bunn of Winnipeg, but of course it was never executed. Two of his brothers, Charles Robert Randolph Bunn and Thomas Drake Bunn also served during the First World War. His older brother, Captain Charles Bunn was born on October 11, 1886 in Winnipeg and signed his Officers' Declaration Paper on August 1, 1916 at the Army Medical Corps No. 10 Training Depot at Camp Hughes, stating that he had no previous military service, that he was Married and that his occupation was that of Surgeon and Physician. His younger brother, Sergeant Thomas Bunn (622062) was born on February 24, 1892 in Kenora and signed his Attestation Paper with the 44th Infantry Battalion on January 1, 1915 in Winnipeg, stating that he had no previous military service, that he was not married and that his trade was that of Drug Clerk. After his discharge from military service, Victor Bunn worked as a Mining Engineer. Upon the outbreak of the Second World War, he offered his services again and was officially posted to the 2nd Canadian Pioneer Battalion, Royal Canadian Engineers. He went overseas again with the position of being second-in-command of this unit. When he returned, he worked for the United States Army on the construction of the Alaskan Highway. Victor Bunn died suddenly on March 11, 1944 at the age of 53. He is buried in St. John's Cemetery in Winnipeg.","brand":"eMedals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46117959532821,"sku":"C4141","price":3900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/9105\/2053\/files\/a_3021.jpg?v=1692859368"},{"product_id":"canada-a-military-cross-bar-to-the-capt-burness-ppcli-2nd-university-company-m0233-1","title":"Canada. A Military Cross \u0026 Bar To The Capt. Burness, Ppcli, 2Nd University Company","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGeorge V. Silver, engraved \"Capt Kenneth Charles \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-il\"\u003eBurness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \/ P.P.C.L.I. \/ 1919\" on the reverse, measuring 44.5 mm (w) x 48.5 mm (h) inclusive of its integral suspension, original ribbon suspended from a pinback hanger, reverse-mounted under glass with a brief biography which includes his two citations, within a 280 mm (w) x 355 mm (h) frame, extremely fine.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFootnote: Kenneth Charles \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-il\"\u003eBurness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e was born on July 22, 1893 in West Hampstead, London, England, the son of Charles Stuart \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-il\"\u003eBurness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e and Florence \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-il\"\u003eBurness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. The family later immigrated Canada, settling in Toronto, Ontario. He signed his Attestation Paper with the 2nd University Company CEF (McG144) on May 26, 1915 in Toronto, at the age of 21, naming his next-of-kin as his mother, Florence \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-il\"\u003eBurness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, stating that he had one years' service with an Active Militia, the Canadian Officers' Training Corps at the University of Toronto, that he was not married and the his trade was that of Student at the University of Toronto in Applied Science. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-il\"\u003eBurness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e soon went overseas with the 2nd University Company. In England, he was attached to the 11th Infantry Battalion at Shorncliffe on July 18, 1915. He was promoted to Lance Corporal on \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aBn\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aQJ\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aBn\" data-term=\"goog_1299575144\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aQJ\"\u003eJuly 21st\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eand to Acting Corporal on \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aBn\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aQJ\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aBn\" data-term=\"goog_1299575145\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aQJ\"\u003eAugust 19th\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-il\"\u003eBurness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e was transferred to the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) on August 23, 1915 for service in the French theatre, arriving and taken on strength at Rouen on \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aBn\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aQJ\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aBn\" data-term=\"goog_1299575146\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aQJ\"\u003eAugust 24th\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aBn\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aQJ\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aBn\" data-term=\"goog_1299575147\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aQJ\"\u003eFive months later\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, Corporal \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-il\"\u003eBurness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e arrived from his unit to conduct the Canadian Base Depot on January 30, 1916. He was to spend five days here before leaving for his unit in the field on February 4, 1916 and was promoted to Sergeant on April 26, 1916. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-il\"\u003eBurness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e was granted a commission as a Temporary Lieutenant and posted to the PPCLI on June 25, 1916. He was named Acting Captain on September 25, 1917, until November 10, 1917 and again named Acting Captain on February 28, 1918, until July 2, 1918. He was promoted to Temporary Captain on August 15, 1918, one day after actions he took at Parvillers in the Somme on August 14, 1918. It were these actions that saw him awarded the Military Cross, his citation appearing in the Supplement to the London Gazette 31119 of Friday, January 10, 1919, on Saturday, January 11, 1919, page 653 and in the Canada Gazette of Saturday, March 29, 1919, page 15 of the Supplement, stating: \"Captain Kenneth Charles \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-il\"\u003eBurness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, PPCLI, Eastern Ontario Regiment. Throughout the operations, lasting five days, he showed exceptional gallantry and resource. On one occasion he found himself cut off with two men under intense machine-gun and rifle fire. One man made his way back slightly wounded. The other was severely wounded, and he got the man on his back and crawled with him over 60 yards to cover. By his gallant act he undoubtedly saved the wounded man from being taken prisoner.\" \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eAfter Parvilliers, he returned briefly to England, where he married Jeannette H. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-il\"\u003eBurness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e on August 22, 1918 at \"The Vicarage\", Abertillery, Monmouthshire, England, the couple later settling in Canada at Glenburnie, Ontario. In the last days of the war, Temporary Captain Kenneth Charles \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-il\"\u003eBurness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, M.C., PPCLI, Eastern Ontario Regiment would earn the Bar to the Military Cross, for actions he took during the advance on Mons from November 7 to 10, 1918, the announcement appearing in the Second Supplement to the London Gazette 31266 of Tuesday, April 1, 1919, on Wednesday, April 2, 1919, page 4323. His citation for the Bar was published in the Second Supplement to the London Gazette 31680 of Tuesday, December 9, 1919, on Wednesday, December 10, 1919, page 15310 and in the Canada Gazette of Saturday, January 17, 1920, page 2175, stating: \"For conspicuous gallantry and tenacity during three days' critical operations in front of Mons, 7th to 10th November, 1918. While employed in street fighting from Avesnes through the outskirts of Mons, he with a small patrol, encountered an enemy post in a house. This he rushed without hesitation, killing two himself and taking four prisoners. Throughout the fighting he was always in advance with the foremost troops, setting a fine example of leadership.\" Temporary Captain \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-il\"\u003eBurness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e was appointed Adjutant on December 24, 1918. He was seconded for duty by vice Temporary Lieutenant A.R. Chapman, effective \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aBn\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aQJ\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aBn\" data-term=\"goog_1299575148\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aQJ\"\u003eDecember 24th\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, the announcement appearing in the Fifth Supplement to the London Gazette 31185 of Friday, February 14, 1919, on Tuesday, February 18, 1919, page 2406. Upon the ceasing of hostilities, Captain \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-il\"\u003eBurness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e proceeded to England with the PPCLI on February 7, 1919. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aBn\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aQJ\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aBn\" data-term=\"goog_1299575149\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aQJ\"\u003eOne month later\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, he was struck off strength of the Overseas Military Forces of Canada on proceeding to Canada, on March 5th, sailing from Liverpool on \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aBn\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aQJ\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aBn\" data-term=\"goog_1299575150\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aQJ\"\u003eMarch 8th\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. After his arrival in Canada, he was taken on strength at Military District No. 3 in Kingston, Ontario, then transferred to Military District No. 2 in Toronto, where he was posted for temporary duty as Adjutant with the PPCLI on April 17, 1919. Captain Kenneth Charles \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-il\"\u003eBurness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e was struck off strength on transfer to the PPCLI in Toronto on October 1, 1919. He is credited with having fought at ten major battles, including the Somme (1915), Mount Sorrel, Somme, Vimy, Mericourt, Lens, Passchendaele, Amiens, Cambrai and Mons. For his First World War service, he was awarded the 1914-15 Star, the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. Between the First and Second World Wars, Captain (Temporary Major) (local Major) Kenneth Charles \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-il\"\u003eBurness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, Permanent Active Militia of Canada relinquished his local rank on ceasing to be employed in the United Kingdom, effective April 12, 1935, the announcement appearing in the London Gazette 34158 of Tuesday, May 7, 1935, page 2984. Lieutenant Colonel Kenneth Charles \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-il\"\u003eBurness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, M.C., Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, Royal Canadian Infantry Corps went on to serve during the Second World War. He was enroute to England, to take up a position as General Staff Officer 1, Headquarters Canadian Base Units, when his ship, the S.S. Nerissa, a passenger and cargo steamer, was torpedoed and sunk by the German submarine U-552, the ship having participated in thirty-nine wartime voyages between Canada and Britain. On this voyage, S.S. Nerissa had become a straggler left behind by Convoy HX-121. On April 30, 1941, she entered the area patrolled by the aircraft of the Royal Navy's Coastal Command. A Lockheed Hudson aircraft flew over her at nightfall and signalled that the area was clear of enemy submarines. At \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aBn\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aQJ\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aBn\" data-term=\"goog_1299575151\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aQJ\"\u003e11:30\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, she was struck amidships by a torpedo fired from U-552, the u-boat commanded by Erich Topp, at 100 miles northwest of the coast of Donegal, Ireland and 200 miles from her destination of Liverpool. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eThe lifeboats were manned and in the process of them being lowered, an explosion split the ship in two, destroying the un-lowered boats. U-552 had fired an additional two torpedoes to ensure the ship's sinking which had struck together three minutes after the first. The ship sank \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aBn\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aQJ\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aBn\" data-term=\"goog_1299575152\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aQJ\"\u003ewithin four minutes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, with 290 passengers and crew aboard. In the short time between the two impacts the ship's radio operator was able to send a Mayday signal along with the ship's position and at first light a Bristol Blenheim of Coastal Command circled the scene. The British destroyer HMS Veteran arrived an hour later at \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aBn\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aQJ\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aBn\" data-term=\"goog_1299575153\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aQJ\"\u003e07:50\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e and picked up the 84 survivors, who were transferred to the Flower-class corvette HMS Kingcup and landed at Derry. S.S. Nerissa was the only transport carrying Canadian troops to be lost during the Second World War. Lieutenant Colonel \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-il\"\u003eBurness\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e was reported missing at sea and officially declared as having died on April 30, 1941, at the age of 47. He is commemorated on page 25 of the Second World War Book of Remembrance and is remembered with honour on the Halifax Memorial, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Panel 14. The Halifax Memorial was erected in Point Pleasant Park and is one of the few tangible reminders of the men who died at sea. Twenty-four ships were lost by the Royal Canadian Navy in the Second World War and nearly 2,000 members of the RCN lost their lives. The Memorial was erected by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and was unveiled in November 1967 in a naval ceremony conducted by H.P. MacKeen, Lieutenant-Governor of Nova Scotia, in the presence of R. Teillet, then Minister of Veterans Affairs. The monument is a great granite Cross of Sacrifice over twelve metres high, clearly visible to all ships approaching Halifax. The cross is mounted on a large podium bearing twenty-three bronze panels upon which are inscribed the names of over 3,000 Canadian men and women who were buried at sea. The dedicatory inscription, in French and English, reads as follows: \"1914-1939 \/ 1918-1945 \/ IN THE HONOUR OF THE MEN AND WOMEN OF THE NAVY ARMY AND MERCHANT NAVY OF CANADA WHOSE NAMES ARE INSCRIBED HERE \/ THEIR GRAVES ARE UNKNOWN BUT THEIR MEMORY SHALL ENDURE.\" On June 19, 2003, the Government of Canada designated \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aBn\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"m_-7492849785801793900gmail-aQJ\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aBn\" data-term=\"goog_1299575154\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"aQJ\"\u003eSeptember 3rd\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e of each year as a day to acknowledge the contribution of Merchant Navy Veterans. [C:233]\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"eMedals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46124018008341,"sku":"M0233-1","price":2430.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/9105\/2053\/files\/dsc_2834.jpg?v=1692876638"},{"product_id":"canada-cef-a-casualty-military-cross-group-for-1916-action-c1882rl1","title":"Canada, CEF. A Casualty Military Cross Group For 1916 Action","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Canadian Casualty Military Cross Group for 1916 Action - Military Cross, GRV; British War Medal (A. CAPT. A.H.R. MAC KAY.); and Victory Medal (A. CAPT. A.H.R. MAC KAY.). Naming is officially impressed. Un-mounted, original ribbons, pinback on the MC, dark patina on the BWM, light contact and gilt wear on the VM, with Memorial Plaque (ALEXANDER HERBERT ROBINS MACKAY), near extremely fine. Accompanied by copies his Attestation Paper, Service Records, Court of Enquiry Report (dated March 22, 1917 and stamped March 27, 1917) and London Gazette, page 11079 (dated November 14, 1916, with his citation for the Military Cross).   \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFootnote: Alexander Herbert Robins MacKay was born on June 16, 1888 in Lanaca, Cyprus. He signed his Attestation Paper on September 23, 1914 at Camp Valcartier, Quebec, naming his next-of-kin as his stepfather, Mr. Justice Stuart of Limassol, Cyprus, that he had previous military service in Peru, that he currently belonged to an active militia, the 19th Alberta Dragoons as a Sergeant, that he was not married and that his trades and previous positions included Ship's Officer, Policeman and Rancher. By early 1915, he was in the French theatre as a Squadron Quartermaster Sergeant with the Divisional Mounted Cavalry (Troops). While at Rouen, he was reprimanded for attempting to sell Government Property on February 12, 1915 and reverted to the rank of Private. He was appointed Lance Corporal on May 28, 1915 and by mid-summer, was taken on strength by the 5th Infantry Battalion from the Divisional Mounted Cavalry on July 24th, acquiring the rank of Temporary Lieutenant. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMacKay was hospitalized on March 7, 1916 for one month, then reported for duty, posted to the General List and attached to the 32nd Infantry Battalion on April 9, 1916. Five weeks later, he was hospitalized again on May 11th, which was followed by his attendance at the 10th Officer's Course beginning on June 14th. He proceeded overseas to the 5th Infantry Battalion on July 1st and was named Acting Captain on September 3rd. Lieutenant MacKay was with the 5th Infantry Battalion, \"Western Canadian Cavalry\" Battalion of the Saskatchewan Regiment when he was awarded his Military Cross, on October 12, 1916, as documented in the London Gazette, page 11079 on November 14, 1916 and in the Canada Gazette, page 2078, on December 23, 1916: \"For conspicuous gallantry in action. He obtained communication with the right half of his company under very heavy fire, displaying great courage and determination. Later, he carried out a valuable reconnaissance.\" Sixteen weeks after he was awarded his Military Cross, now a Captain, he was accidentally killed during a machine-gun demonstration on February 2, 1917. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA Court of Enquiry was assembled in the Field on March 22, 1917, by order of The Assistant Adjutant-General, Canadian Section, 3rd Echelon, for the purpose of \"enquiring into the circumstances under which Capt. A.H.R. MacKay met his death\", the court consisting of three members: Major K.A. Mahaffy, Captain J. Findlay and Captain E. Day. Three witnesses testified before the court: Lieutenant A.M. Boyd, Lieutenant J.D. Cumming and Lieutenant W. Willis, all of the 5th Canadian Infantry Battalion. Lieutenant Boyd stated that \"On the 2nd day of February 1917 Capt. A. H. R. MacKay expressed the desire to have a demonstration of the Lewis Gun given to him by Lieut. W. Willis. On the evening of the above date a Lewis Gun was brought to the Mess Room of \"B\" Company. With the Gun were a few cartridges which I did not examine, but which I took for granted to be dummies. Lieut. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWillis began his demonstration by stripping the Gun, I did not pay particular attention to what was being done or said. I heard the report of the Gun and looking up saw Capt. MacKay sitting right opposite the muzzle of the Gun. He was staring wildly and realizing that something had happened to him I ran to his assistance as also did Lieut. Willis. Looking at Lieut. Willis, Capt. MacKay said, \"Good-bye old chap - write to my wife\". He expired immediately afterwards. Lieut. Cummings ran for the doctor who arrived about seven minutes after the accident had occurred.\" The testimony of both Lieutenants Findlay and Day concurred and were similar in content. The Court of Enquiry found that Captain MacKay had met his death accidentally: \"The court after hearing the evidence finds that the deceased Capt. A.H.R. MacKay, met his death accidently by the discharge of a cartridge supposed to be a dummy, by which its appearance justified the demonstrating Officer in so regarding it.\", signed by Major K.A. Mahaffy. An additional note stating \"I have no doubt whatever that Capt. MacKay's death was purely accidental, \u0026amp; I am quite sure that all precautions were observed. I quite agree with the finding of the court.\" was handwritten on the last page of the report and signed by Lieutenant Hugh M. Dyer, Officer Commanding, 5th Canadian Infantry Battalion.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"eMedals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46134874734869,"sku":"C1882.RL1","price":3175.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/9105\/2053\/files\/MNC8848_2c3838a5-5e00-4bdc-a842-57a8452c8541.jpg?v=1761314203"},{"product_id":"canada-cef-a-1914-15-star-memorial-cross-to-pte-weir-27th-canadian-infantry-dow-c7155","title":"Canada, CEF. A 1914-15 Star \u0026 Memorial Cross to Pte. Weir, 27th Canadian Infantry, DOW","description":"\u003cp\u003eA 1914-15 Star, bronze gilt, reverse impressed 71745 PTE D. WEIR. 27\/CAN:INF:, full size, original ribbon, light wear, lovely patina, in extremely fine condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA Memorial Cross, in silver, reverse privately engraved 71745 PTE D. WEIR., missing ribbon, wear to finish, in very fine condition. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFootnote: David Weir was born in Glasgow, Scotland on November 2, 1892. He enlisted for the First War in October, 1914 at the age of 21, in Winnipeg. He was attached to the 27th Infantry Battalion, which sailed on May 17, 1915.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOn May 5, 1917, he was dangerously wounded by a gunshot wound to the left arm. This resulted in an amputation at the middle of the humerus. On May 13, 1917, Weir was moved to the Military Hospital. His records state he was severely ill on June 6 1917. Weir died of wounds on June 10, 1917. His mother, Janet, received his memorial cross. He was buried on the Western Necropolis, Mary Hill, Glasgow. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"eMedals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48592071262485,"sku":"C7155","price":141.52,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/9105\/2053\/files\/MNC6731.jpg?v=1729179894"},{"product_id":"canada-cef-a-first-war-dso-and-mc-with-bar-to-major-mccaghey-gallantry-at-lens-and-camery-1918-c7199","title":"Canada, CEF. A First War DSO and MC with Bar to Major McCaghey, Gallantry at Lens and Camery, 1918","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Military Cross, in silver, full size, reverse engraved N.F. McCAGHEY. LENS 27-4-18, lovely toning around crowns, worn on original ribbon with brooch style pin, in very fine condition. Contained in its original case of issue, a dark purple leatherette exterior with gilded crown on the lid, the interior with a white silk lid and velvet medalbed, measures 78 mm (w) x 32 mm (l) x 18 mm (d), functional hinge and clasp, very fine. Accompanied by a tailor copy (replacement) bar, reverse marked STER., very fine. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA Distinguished Service Order, in silver gilt and enamels, measures 41.5 mm (w) x 46.2 mm (h), worn on original ribbon with suspension bars at base and top, both engraved on the reverse MAJOR N.F. McCAGHEY on top and DAMERY 15-8-18 below, small enamel chips to reverse wreath, otherwise near extremely fine. Contained in its original case, a black pebbled exterior marked D.S.O., the interior silk lid marked GARRARD \u0026amp; Co, with a blue velvet medalbed, measures 130 mm (w) x 67 mm (l) x 23 mm (d), hinge and clasp functional, light wear to exterior, remains near extremely fine. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAccompanied by a brass nameplate engraved MAJOR N.F. MCCAGHEY D.S.O. M.C. AND BAR 52ND BATT. C.E.F., copies of his attestation papers, research communications from 1976.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFootnote: Norman Fraser McCaghey was born in Quebec on May 30, 1890. At the time of his enlistment on July 6, 1915, he was a civil engineer in Port Arthur, Ontario. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUpon arriving in France with the 52nd Battalion, he completed an anti gas school and grenade course throughout the summer of 1916. In February 1917, he was to become a Captain following the death of Captain H.J Horan. By June, he was named acting Major whilst commanding A company. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn July 1918, he was reported to be temporary Major of the Manitoba Regiment (enacted in April). On August 15, 1918, while on duty in France repulsing a German Counter attack, was hit by rifle bullet in arm and about one hour after was shot by machine gun bullet T\u0026amp;T [through and through] wound from Buttock to groin. Was taken to C.C [casualty clearing] Station, then to # 8 Gen Hosp. in Rouen. He was later evacuated to England when he was in the Prince of Wales in London for two months. He was moved to Convalescent Hospital in Matlock for an additional month, prior to returning to Canada as an invalid. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMcCaghey was awarded the Military Cross on September 16, 1918 for actions on April 27, 1918, at Lens.  The citation read: “For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. This officer, after several daring reconnaissances by day and night, organised a raiding party, which, under his direction, entered the enemy trenches at 3 a.m., without being observed penetrating to a strong point where they killed or wounded twenty-five, and brought back two prisoners for identification,and also a machine gun. The surprise was so complete that the raiders had only three slight casualties.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHe was also awarded the Distinguished Service Order for his actions on August 15, 1918 at Camery. Damery (sometimes spelled “Camery” in older or handwritten records), was a small village east of Rosières-en-Santerre, in the Amiens sector of France. The London Gazette, dated January 11, 1919 states his citation as follows: \u003cbr\u003e“McCaghey, Major Norman Fraser M.C\u003cbr\u003e52nd Battalion Canadian Infantry, Manitoba Regiment\u003cbr\u003eFor conspicuous gallantry and devotion in a successful attack when his fine courage and initiative were the outstanding feature of the occasion. He exposed himself fearlessly in steading the line, during which time he was severely wounded; and his splendid example largely accounted for the enemy’s complete defeat.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHe was later awarded the Bar for the Military Cross on November 3, 1918. McCaghey was also mentioned in despatches on December 31, 1918. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFollowing the war, McCaghey became a certified field officer, completing the qualification course in machine gunnery at Kenogami, Quebec in October, 1922. McCaghey died in July 1967, in Montreal, Canada. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"eMedals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49490873745685,"sku":"C7199","price":4155.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/9105\/2053\/files\/MNC1692_e3704b8c-7b85-4341-906a-708dc681c59b.jpg?v=1768589965"},{"product_id":"canada-commonwealth-a-military-cross-with-bar-group-to-captain-newell-rcha-1944-c7202","title":"Canada, Commonwealth. A Military Cross with Bar Group to Captain Newell, RCHA, 1944","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Military Cross, in silver, reverse officially engraved CAPT. P.G. NEWELL. R.C.H.A. HITLER LINE ITALY with 1944 on the 6 o’clock arm, measures 43.8 mm (w)  x 48.1 mm (h), worn on ribbon segment with Bar featuring a central crown, the reverse is engraved NAVIGLIO 1945 BRIDGE HEAD, the cross is bright with light wear, and the bar offers a darker patina, remains in extremely fine condition. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAn Italy Star, bronze gilt, full size, light wear very fine. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA Defence Medal, in silver, full size, light wear, very fine condition. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA Canadian Volunteers Service Medal, in silver, full size, dark patina, very fine. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA British War Medal, in silver, full size, dark patina, very fine.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA Canadian Forces Decoration, in bronze gilt, rim engraved CAPT PG NEWELL, measures 38.7 mm (w) x 48.7 mm (h), light wear to edges, original ribbon.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFootnote: Captain Peter George Newell, MC and Bar, of the Royal Canadian Artillery, was awarded the Military Cross for gallantry during the assault on the Adolf-Hitler Line near Pontecorvo, Italy, on 23 May 1944. Serving as a Forward Observation Officer attached to “D” Company of The Carleton and York Regiment, Newell repeatedly exposed himself to intense enemy fire to maintain communication and direct artillery support. When three leading tanks were knocked out by German anti-tank guns, he ran forward under fire to warn the remaining crews and climbed onto a tank to point out enemy positions. He then organized an infantry anti-tank detachment, assisted in siting their weapon, and continued to direct artillery fire with exceptional skill, breaking up a forming German counter-attack and enabling the infantry to advance through one of the most formidable sections of the Hitler Line. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLater, he was awarded a Bar to his Military Cross for further gallantry, moving his guns to forward positions under heavy fire and providing decisive artillery support to the infantry. These actions exemplify the courage, leadership, and composure under fire expected of Canadian Forward Observation Officers.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNewell’s service took place during the Italian Campaign (1943–1945), a series of Allied operations aimed at removing Axis forces from Italy. The campaign involved assaults on heavily fortified German defensive lines, including the Gustav and Adolf-Hitler Lines, across difficult mountainous terrain, requiring close coordination between infantry, armor, and artillery. Officers like Newell were crucial in directing artillery under fire, enabling breakthroughs, neutralizing enemy positions, and contributing significantly to the success of Canadian operations in the Liri Valley and beyond.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"eMedals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49490874958101,"sku":"C7202","price":3780.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/9105\/2053\/files\/MNC1725_09d18107-8150-4565-bfe0-95070ddd5755.jpg?v=1767018414"},{"product_id":"canada-cef-a-military-cross-to-lieutenant-gwyn-royal-canadian-dragoons-kia-by-torpedoed-rms-leinster-october-1918-c7254","title":"Canada, CEF. A Military Cross to Lieutenant Gwyn, Royal Canadian Dragoons, KIA by Torpedoed RMS Leinster, October 1918","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Military Cross, GVR, in silver, unnamed as issued, worn on original ribbon, light wear and areas of discolouration, remains extremely fine. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Memorial Plaque, in bronze, named to DONALD STODART GWYN, full size, two paper stickers adhered to reverse, remains very fine. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFootnote: Donald Stodart Gwyn was born in Quebec City on October 1, 1896. He was educated at Bishops College, Lennoxville and the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario. He was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the Royal Canadian Dragoons on June 25, 1915, and served with the CEF on the Western Front from 1917. He was awarded the Military Cross for an action south east of Haricourt on the Night of February 12-13, 1918. The citation, published August 24, 1918, states: “For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during a raid on the enemy's trenches. He led his men with great energy and determination and by his fearless leadership overcame the enemy’s resistance. He set a splendid example to all ranks.”\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHe was wounded severely on March 23, 1918. After going on leave to Ireland, he was aboard the RMS Leinster, when the ship was torpedoed by the German submarine, U-123 just outside Dublin Bay in the Irish Sea on October 10, 1918. He was among the 500 who were killed. His body was later recovered, and he was buried in Grangegorman Military Cemetery, Dublin, Ireland. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProvenance: Previously sold by Spink \u0026amp; Sons (July 2024) and Noonan Mayfair (October 2021).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"eMedals","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49616135717141,"sku":"C7254","price":1485.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/9105\/2053\/files\/eMedals_C7254_2.jpg?v=1767640587"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.emedals.com\/collections\/north-america-canada-groups-single-decorations-for-gallantry-military-cross.oembed","provider":"eMedals","version":"1.0","type":"link"}