British Groups

Lot 4043    The J.J.Atkinson Collection    British Groups

Estimate $3,500
Bid at live.noble.com.au
SOLD $5,000

GROUP OF SIX TO CORPORAL WILLIAM JAMES HOWKINS, Royal Engineers Military Medal (GVIR) with bar for second award (2019566 L.Cpl. W.J.Howkins. R.E.); 1939-45 Star, Africa Star (8th Army); France and Germany Star; Defence Medal; British War Medal 1939-45. Military Medal only named, impressed, others unnamed. Very fine.

MM: London Gazette 25 November 1943. 'For gallant and distinguished services in the Middle East. On the night of 26/27 March 1943 at Gebel Saikhra, west of Medenine, L/Cpl Howkins was one of the detachment assisting a Coy of R.B. (Rifle Brigade) in the attack on the Saikhra feature. Extremely strong resistance was encountered and when his Section Commander was wounded, L/Cpl Howkins took charge and continuing to clear mined areas for the attacking infantry. It was in no small part due to the leadership of L/Cpl Howkins that the operation was successful with the infantry gaining their objective. L/Cpl Howkins' conduct during this period has at all times been exemplary and an inspiration to his men.'

MM (bar): 31 August 1944. 'For gallant and distinguished services in Normandy. At Briquessard on the afternoon of the 15th, June 1944, Corporal Howkins was in charge of a half section of Sappers, sent to clear mines from the verges of the road Briquessard St. Germain in front of our FDLS (Forward Defended Localities). A carrier platoon was sent out to act as covering party, but owing to intense enemy fire the party was not able to take up a position in front of the Sappers. For the last 200 yards of the road, Corporal Howkins crawled up the ditch alone, leaving his six Sappers in a safe position. This stretch of the road was under direct observation of the enemy, and was covered by small arms fire both from front and flank. The party was in front of our FDLS for a total of six hours and all mines along the road were cleared. For outstanding bravery under fire and devotion to duty, Corporal Howkins is recommended for the immediate award of a Bar to his Military Medal in the field, 17th June 1944.'

On 6th September 1944, the 4th Field Squadron was employed in Belgium, holding a bridge over the Scheldt at Wetteren, unsupported by infantry who advanced. At first light, the enemy launched a series of counter-attacks covered by mortar and anti-tank fire. The hard pressed engineers, by virtue of their gallantry and resource, held the attack, eventually with the arrival of a company of the Queen's, the enemy were driven off. The unit lost five killed and five wounded during the action. Corporal W.J. Howkins is recorded by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission as having died '7th September 1944' probably from wounds received in action at the bridge the day before.

Together with copies of the original recommendations for both awards; and copies of relevant London Gazette entries.