Previous Lot Next Lot

Auction: 22003 - Orders, Decorations and Medals
Lot: 467

(x) A Second World War 'Immediate' M.M. awarded to Private J. Rayners, Coloured Corps, for participating in a bayonet charge and single-handedly attacking a German mortar position in the withdrawal from Gazala in 1942

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (C. 274294 Pte. J. Rayners. C.C.), suspension rod a little loose, otherwise good very fine

6 M.M.'s issued to the Coloured Corps during the Second World War.

M.M. London Gazette 24 September 1942. The original recommendation states:

'Rayners, Jacob, was the driver of a utility truck, with a det from No 2 Fd Pro Coy, when they were cut off, in the rear of the Div rearguard, in the withdrawal from the GAZALA positions on Jun 15 at GABR EL HAMEIDA.

When the withdrawal of the provost vehicles was rendered impossible by mortar, machine gun and rifle fire, Pte RAYNERS left his vehicle, without being ordered to do so, and joined the provost personnel in an attack on the enemy. He was in the forefront of a bayonet charge into the wadi where the enemy had lodged itself, made a single handed charge on an enemy mortar, and throughout the operation displayed the greatest dash and disregard for his personal safety."

Jacob Rayners was a native of Uitenhage (now Kariega), South Africa.

Subject to 5% tax on Hammer Price in addition to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium.

Sold for
£1,400

Starting price
£700

Sale 22003 Notices
'Cape Coloured Corps.'