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Auction: 24111 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 722

A Great War M.C. group of five awarded to Lieutenant J. A. Harland, Manchester Regiment, late King's Royal Rifle Corps, who latterly forged a career in West Africa

Military Cross, G.V.R.; British War and Victory Medals (2. Lieut. J. A. Harland.); Jubilee 1935; Coronation 1937, very fine (5)

M.C. London Gazette 23 July 1918:

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during recent operations. During a heavy bombardment he walked up and down his line encouraging his men, regardless of his own safety. He set an excellent example to all ranks. From the moment he took over command of the company he handled his men with great skill and initiative.'

John Alfred Harland was working for the London & City Midland Bank at Middlesborough upon the outbreak of the Great War. Having served initially in the ranks of the King's Royal Rifle Corps (No. 12879), he was commissioned into the Manchester Regiment and served in France from April 1916.

Having earned his M.C., he was to set sail for West Africa in 1920, as Manager for Barclays Bank in Accra, Sierra Leone, a place he was to call home for over two decades. Whilst there, he is confirmed upon the 1935 Jubilee Medal Roll - as one of just 26 Non-Government Individuals for the Colony - as 'Nominated European Member of the Legislative Council'. Retired in January 1942, he died having returned to Redcar on 28 April 1942.

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Sold for
£750

Starting price
£480