A fine Second War Italian theatre Immediate M.C. group of seven awarded to Major J. G. H....

A fine Second War ‘Italian theatre’ Immediate M.C. group of seven awarded to Major J. G. H. Brotherton, 64 Anti-Tank Regiment, Royal Artillery Military Cross, G.VI.R. reverse officially dated ‘1945’; 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; General Service 1918-62, 1 clasp, Palestine 1945-48 (Maj. J. G. H. Brotherton. M.C. R.A.) good very fine (7) £1,800-£2,200 --- M.C. London Gazette 18 October 1945. The original Recommendation for the award of an Immediate M.C., available online, states: ‘Lieut. John George Harry Brotherton, 64 Anti-Tank Regt. R.A. This officer was in command of two M.10 Self Propelled Guns supporting a troop of ‘C’ Squadron, 56 Recce Regiment, on 13 April 1945 - area NW of San Patrizzo. The troop were held up by a number of enemy in fortified houses and called upon the M.10 to engage them until enemy fire ceased. At this the enemy were found attempting to surround the troop position. They were ordered to withdraw a short distance and form a strong point to be held at all costs. While so doing, the enemy supported by S.OP. guns put in a determined attack and one M.10 was knocked out. Lieutenant Brotherton immediately dismounted both of his detachments and engaged the enemy with small arms, LMGs and a 2” mortar. For several hours the enemy tried to dislodge them and at times came into very close contact. Owing to the courage and determination of this officer all attacks were beaten off until our infantry and tanks were able to put in a staged attack.’