Beschreibung:

WWII Second World War Medal Group - 8268 Lieutenant Willem Aaron Van Heerden of Prince Alfred's Guard, South African Army - Field Force Battalion - an incredible WWII Second World War medal group awarded to Van Heerden, comprising his Military Cross (engraved '1942' to verso), 1939-45 Star (impressed '8268 WA Van Heerden'), The Africa Star (Impressed '8268 WA Van Heerden), The Italy Star (impressed 8268 WA Van Heerden), War Medal (replacement, unimpressed) and Africa Service Medal (replacement, unimpressed). All with original ribbons. Supplied with an archive of paperwork including copies of his Record Of Service, Discharge Certificate, a copy of his Citation, various copies of extracts from books etc. An impressive medal group and citation. The citation reads, in part; ' ...For gallant and distinguished services whilst under heavy enemy fire. On the night of 23/24 October 1942 in an attack on the enemy main defences, Lieut Van Heerden led his platoon into action in the face of heavy Mortar and MG Fire. Whilst crossing the enemy minefield his platoon suffered many casualties, he himself being wounded. With the few remaining men of his platoon, he led a bayonet charge on a German strongpoint, surrounded by wire, booby-traps and AP mines. Running ahead of his men, he led the attack with such vigour and dash that a Mortar posn and an MG nest were captured, the German crews killed, and an officer and 9 OR's taken prisoner. During the charge he received two further wounds and his Platoon was reduced to four men, but despite his wounds he personally organised the evacuation of his own wounded men and 10 of the German prisoners. The conspicuous gallantry, dash, and determination display by this officer during the assault on the strongpoint were largely responsible for the killing and wounding of the Mortar and MG crews, and the capture of 10 prisoners'.