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Auction: 24003 - Orders, Decorations and Medals
Lot: 197

The 'Battle for Hill 112' M.M. awarded to Lance Sergeant A. Duncan, 2nd (Glasgow Highlanders) Battalion, Highland Light Infantry, who was killed in action before he could wear his richly-deserved award

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (3311185 L.Sgt. A. Duncan. H.L.I.); 1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, with M.I.D. oakleaf, mounted for wear, the pin removed, light contact wear, edge bruising, overall very fine (5)

M.M. London Gazette 19 October 1944, the original recommendation states:

'During the attack on "Bon Repos" on 16 Jul 44 this NCO showed absolute coolness which persisted throughout his three days stay in the defensive position, and was an inspiration to all. He carried out two separate patrols and silenced a MG post, each time, destroying the enemy and capturing two prisoners in all. He also, by his personal recce, obtained information about enemy fighting patrols which enabled his Coy to be in a better position to engage and kill, when they arrived. Twice on 16 Jul he went forward from his section area under heavy MG fire and brought in casualties from an advance post as far as his own position where stretcher bearers could collect, undoubtedly saving one life.'

Alexander Sandy Duncan was born at Crieff, Scotland in 1915, the son of James and Elizabeth Duncan, he married Jean Duncan and resided with her at Maryhill, Glasgow. He served with the Highland Light Infantry, attached to the 8th Division during Arab Revolt in Palestine. Joining the Territorial Army at some stage after the revolt, Duncan was posted to the 2nd Battalion, Glasgow Highlanders.

This formation did not deploy until 1944 when they took part in the Battle for Normandy as part of the 227th Brigade, 15th (Scottish) Division. It was during this period that they took part in the Battle for Hill 112, a part of Operation Epsom, the attempt to encircle the city of Caen.

They Battalion advanced towards Bon Repos on 15 July however the next morning found themselves under heavy attack. They repelled the earliest attacks but found themselves targeted by German tanks, this assault was also driven off although with heavy losses. It was for his bravery and leadership during this period that Duncan was awarded the Military Medal, the Battalion was relieved on the night of 17-18 July.

They were present for Operation Bluecoat alongside the American Operation Cobra which ended on 7 August 1944. Duncan was listed as killed in action the next day alongside a small group of 5 other men from his Battalion. The War Diary mentions a Lloyd Carrier being destroyed by mortar fire that day which is quite likely where Duncan met his end. He is buried at Bayeux War Cemetery; sold together with copied research.

Further entitled to the General Service Medal 1918-62 with a clasp for Palestine 1936-39, there is no evidence of the recipient being 'mentioned'.

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Estimate
£1,400 to £1,800

Starting price
£1100