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Auction: 20002 - Orders, Decorations, Medals & Space Exploration
Lot: 613

An unusual campaign group of three awarded to Private P. J. Bannister, Parachute Regiment

Having left the Army after six happy years with his unit, he was recalled for the Iraq War with three weeks notice and deployed attached to the Welsh Guards Mortar Platoon in Maysan Province

General Service 1962-2007, 1 clasp, Northern Ireland (25015247 Pte P J Bannister Para); Iraq 2003-11, no clasp (25015247 Pte P J Bannister Para); Jubilee 2012, the first mounted court-style as worn, pin removed, good very fine (3)

P. J. Bannister served in 2nd Battalion, Parachute Regiment during the 1990's, serving two years with 'D' Company, two in the Mortar Platoon and two in the Signals Platoon before leaving to form his own company. Remaining on the Reserve, his Operational Performance Report covering 23 October 2004-1 May 2005 gives the best insight:

'Although given just 3 weeks notice for deployment Pte Bannister was a willing volunteer to join the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards in Iraq. Joining Support Company after a month in theatre he was attached to the Mortar Platoon where his former skills came in useful. An extremely likeable, confident and competent soldier, he very quickly adapted to the rigours of a demanding and dangerous tour in Maysan Province and soon became one of the most reliable and effective soldiers in the Company. His soldiering skills often put several Guardsmen to shame.

He has displayed sensitivity in dealing with Iraqi people and an excellent situational awareness. During an arrest Op in which the Company supported the Iraqi Police Service in arresting a wanted murderer and kidnapper, Pte Bannister's performance was outstanding. Chosen to accompany the Company Commander in the inner cordon as close protection, he showed courage and fortitutde when the incident escalated into a lengthy fire-fight between the kidnapper and the Police. When a policeman was wounded and the kidnapper was surrounded in a building he showed initiative in leading the medic from the outer cordon to the casualty, skill under sporadic fire from the building. When it became apparent that the kidnapper was dead, he continued to assist the Police Officer and medic and helped evacuate him to a hospital.'

Bannister was awarded a GOC's Commendation from Major-General J. P. Riley. Having returned to civilian life, it is understood his Jubilee Medal was awarded for his work with the Dartmoor Mountain Rescue Team; sold together with named box of issue for the Iraq Medal, copied Tour Report, and Commendation

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Sold for
£480

Starting price
£180