British Groups

Lot 4017    The J.J.Atkinson Collection    British Groups

Estimate $1,500
Bid at live.noble.com.au
SOLD $2,500

GROUP OF EIGHT TO MAJOR FRANCIS JOSEPH FONE, Lothian and Border Horse, Royal Armoured Corps Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; Defence Medal, British War Medal 1939-45; Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (313665 Sq. Q.M. Sjt. F.J. Fone 12-L), Meritorious Service Medal (313665 W.O. C.L.1. F.J.Fone. 12th. L.).

MSM: During commissioned service this officer has performed the duties of Adjutant 2L & B H, and Camp Commandant, 6th Armoured Division, with competence and zeal. By his [illegible] bearing, often under exacting conditions, he has set a good example to all juniors with whom he is in contact, and shown loyalty to his superior officers. It is considered that his services have been of exceptional and outstanding merit over a period of 24 years.

MBE: After more than two years as Camp Commandant, this officer assumed command of the Headquarters Squadron last February. An HQ Sqn is never an easy command, but by his strict discipline combined with fairness and cheerfulness he has been an outstanding success. In the recent battle, with the Division constantly on the move, his task has not been an easy one. A Tac HQ of varying size has been out almost continuously, main and rear division have always been apart, sometimes out of communication. During the period of mobile operations from the start of the battle until UDINE was reached at the beginning of May each Headquarters moved on an average once every 48 hours. This has demanded great administrative flexibility, with constant changes in the distribution of transport, messes and cooks. That the HQ system never went wrong must in a great measure be attributed to the inspiring and tireless work of this very fine soldier.

Together with recipient's birth certificate, Army Certificate of Education, testimonials, application correspondance, photographs, warrant, squadron cricket medals (2) and letter of appointment as additional member of Order of the British Empire.