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Auction: 7022 - Orders, Decorations, Medals & Militaria
Lot: 1056

A French Theatre 1917 ´Rat´s Tail´ Bourlon Wood M.M. to Private S. Bishopp, Royal Fusiliers Military Medal, G.V.R. (G-68461 Pte. S. Bishopp. 17/R. Fus:), extremely fine Estimate £ 340-380 M.M. London Gazette 13.3.1918 G-68461 Pte. Stephen Bishopp R. Fus. (Brentwood) 68461 Private S. Bishopp, M.M., won his M.M. for the action called ´Rats Tail´ (Bourlon Wood, Cambrai Sector), 30.11.1917. On the latter date Bishopp´s Company was in an isolated forward position under the command of Captain W.N. Stone, 1,000 yards in front of the main line and overlooking the enemy´s position. Due to the advanced position Stone was able to spot the enemy massing for an attack, and sent valuable information back to Battalion Headquarters. He was ordered to withdraw leaving a rearguard to cover the withdrawal. The German attack developed with unexpected speed and Stone sent three platoons back, whilst remaining with the rearguard. Under heavy bombardment he continued to send vital information back, until the rearguard was eventually over run and cut to pieces, with Stone shot through the head. Stone was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross, and Bishopp was awarded the Military Medal for the same action. The Battalion suffered 17 officers and 167 other ranks killed or wounded in the attack. Taken Prisoner of War, and died in captivity, 7.5.1918 (Regimental History refers). He is buried in Berlin South-Western Cemetery.

Sold for
£500