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Auction: 20003 - Orders, Decorations and Medals
Lot: 311

An extremely rare Malaya D.F.M. pair awarded to Corporal A. G. Gilbert, Royal Army Service Corps

Distinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. (T/22547390. Cpl. A. G. Gilbert. R.A.S.C.); General Service 1918-62, 1 clasp, Malaya (T/22547390 Cpl. A. G. Gilbert. D.F.M. R.A.S.C.), number officially re-impressed on first, good very fine (2)

D.F.M. London Gazette 29 October 1954:

'For distinguished services in Malaya during the period 1st December 1953-31st May 1954.'

The original recommendation by Wing Commander Wasse states:

'Corporal Gilbert has been employed since November 1951 with No. 55 Company R.A.S.C. (Air Despatch) in Malaya. Since this date he has flown 179 operational supply dropping sorties as an Army Despatcher with the Transport Squadrons of the Far East Air Force. This figure amounts to a total of some 500 flying hours.

He has displayed a spirit of Army/R.A.F. co-operation quite outstanding in a young N.C.O. and has done much toward building and furthering Inter-Service loyalty so esssential to Air Supply opeations.

In the ground preparation of air 'drops' Corporal Gilbert has met with uncomplaining endurance, the exceptaionally long hours of tedious and unspectacular work demanded of him, with a patience, care and understanding which has made him an outstanding example to those under his command.

By sheerness of character, energy and devotion to duty he has achieved exceptional results among the seven air despatch crews for whom he is directly responsible.

During the periods of two fatal air crashes to two Supply Dropping aircraft and involving men of his Company he showed himself to be an ideal leader of men, who by his courage and personal example was a considerable single factor in the maintenance of high morale.

In the past six months Cpl. Gilbert has flown 48 operational Supply Drops and I strongly recommend him for the award of the D.F.M. in recognition of the magnificent work performed by his Company.'

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Estimate
£2,000 to £3,000

Starting price
£1500