Previous Lot Next Lot

Auction: 24111 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 720

Sold by Order of a Direct Descendant

A remarkable 'Malayan Emergency' M.B.E. group of give awarded to Major W. R. May, Royal Artillery attached Malay Regiment

The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, Member's (M.B.E.) breast Badge, Military Division, silver; 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; War Medal 1939-45, with M.I.D. oakleaves; General Service Medal 1918-62, 1 clasp, Malaya (Maj. W. R. May), mounted as worn with ribands of the remaining medals the recipient was entitled to, minor contact wear, good very fine overall (5)

M.B.E. London Gazette 28 April 1953, the original recommendation states:

'Major May has been DAQMG RHQ The Malay Regiment for the past two and a half years. During this period the Malay Regt has expanded rapidly. An operational Brigade HQ has been raised as well as new battalions and other units.

The smooth running and ease with which these units have been raised and have been operationally deployed is largely due to this officer's foresight and hard work.

Although often short of staff Major May has been prepared at all times to put in long hours of most detailed work. He has shown a very high standard of loyalty and devotion to duty.

For the last six months he has been employed on liaison duties with the Defence Department of the Government of the Federation of Malaya. These duties have been arduous as correspondence passed to the Government has to go through his office. He has no military staff to assist him.

These duties have been carried out with the same efficiency and thoroughness that has characterised all his work with the Malay Regiment.

I strongly recommend that he be awarded an Honour.'

Walter Raymond May was commissioned into the Royal Engineers on 31 August 1939 before being transferred to the Royal Artillery with the rank of Lieutenant on 1 August 1940. Serving in the Mediterranean during the war May received a mention for his service (London Gazette 23 May 1946. For Gallant and Distinguished services in the Mediterranean.)

Promoted Captain on 1 August 1946 he remained in service after the war being further advanced Major on 20 September 1952 while stationed in Malaya. He was attached to the newly reformed Malay Regiment during this time as Deputy Adjutant and Quartermaster General. This was during a period in which the formation was expanding in the face of the threat posed by the Malaysian Communist Party.

May retired on 12 September 1956 with the honorary rank of Major; sold together with copied research comprising recommendation and London Gazette.

For his miniature awards see Lot 985.

Subject to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium. For more information please view Terms and Conditions for Buyers.

Sold for
£250

Starting price
£140