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Auction: 18001 - Orders, Decorations and Medals
Lot: 401

(x) The mounted group of eight miniature dress medals worn by Squadron Leader H. H. King, B.E.M., Royal Air Force

British Empire Medal, E.II.R., Military Division; General Service 1918-62, G.V.R., 1 clasp, Kurdistan; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, M.I.D. oak leaf; Coronation 1953; Royal Air Force L.S. & G.C., G.V.R.; Iraq, Active Service Medal, mounted as worn, good very fine (8)


Harry Hatton King served as a Flight Sergeant (Mechanic) in No. 145 Squadron during the Battle of France and Britain. The Squadron was reformed at Croydon on 10 October 1939, as a day and night fighter unit equipped with Blenheims. In March 1940, it began to convert to Hurricanes and in May became operational, flying its Hurricanes to France to back up the Advanced Air Striking Force. The Squadron was subsequently heavily engaged during the opening weeks of the Battle of Britain. King was awarded the B.E.M. (London Gazette 17 March 1941, refers), the recommendation stating:

'He was left in charge of a flight whilst pilots were engaged in carrying out intensive operations over France in May 1940. The high state of serviceability maintained during these operations was in a great measure due to the tireless devotion to duty displayed by this Airman. He rendered valuable service during the initial formation of his Squadron and has invariably set a fine example to all the Members.'

Commissioned Pilot Officer on 29 April 1941, King was also the recipient of a 'mention' (London Gazette 24 September 1941, refers). He attained the acting rank of Squadron Leader in January 1955 and died in February 1992; sold with copied research.


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Sold for
£170