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Auction: 21001 - Orders, Decorations and Medals (conducted behind closed doors)
Lot: 347

A 1960 C.B.E. and 1945 Italy operations Bronze Star group of ten awarded to Major G. E. Wells, 1st Special Service Battalion, British South African Armoured Corps, later Clerk of the Federal Assembly in Rhodesia

The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, C.B.E. (Civil) Commander’s 2nd Type, neck Badge, silver-gilt and enamel, in its Garrard & Co case of issue; 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaves; Africa Service Medal 1939-45 (SR.597689 G. E. Wells.); Jubilee 1935; Coronation 1953; Territorial Efficiency Decoration, G.VI.R., with E.II.R. Second Award Bar, the reverse inscribed 'Temp. Major Gerald Edward Wells. S. Rhodesia Terr. Force.'; United States of America, Bronze Star, the breast Medals mounted as worn, the Africa Service Medal and E.D. loose, very fine (10)

C.B.E. London Gazette 1 January 1960:

'Clerk of the Federal Assembly, Federation of Rhodesia & Nyasaland.'

United States Bronze Star London Gazette 23 May 1947. The original recommendation states:

'Major Gerald E. Wells. 1st Special Service Battalion, British South African Armoured Corps, for meritorious achievement in connection with military operations in Italy from 15 April to 29 April 1945. As Second in Command of the 1st Special Service Battalion, Major Wells remained with the most forward elements of the Battalion in order to be fully acquainted with the tactical situation should the need arise for him to assume command. On 23 April, due to the temporary incapacitation of the Commanding Officer, Major Wells took charge of the unit and demonstrating a complete knowledge, assumed his duties with a minimum of delay, averting any possible loss of control. Throughout the entire operation he met every problem and solved it quickly and efficiently, displaying outstanding leadership and tactical knowledge. Major Wells's initiative and perseverance contributed greatly to the combat success of the 1st Special Service Battalion and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered service from Salisbury, Southern Rhodesia.'

Sold together with riband bars as worn.

For his miniature dress Medals, please see Lot 782.

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Sold for
£750

Starting price
£400