The WWII Battle of Gazala Distinguished Conduct Medal group to Sergeant Bevan, 2nd Regiment, Royal Horse Artillery was offered in our auction on Wednesday 9th February 2011. It realised £2,645.
The Battle of Gazala was fought in the Western desert around the strategic port of Tobruk between 26th May and 21st June 1942. The Allied defensive line consisted of a number of Brigade size boxes protected by landmines and barbwire.
The award of the DCM was announced in the London Gazette dated 15th October 1942 while serving with 2nd Regt R.H.A.
“On 14.6.42 ‘I’ Battery were in action south of Acroma. L/Sjt Bevan was No 1 of a 25 pr gun. At about 0830 hrs enemy tanks advanced from the south and when about 1000 yards from the Tp position they came under direct observation from L/Sjt Bevan’s gun. L/Sjt Bevan was ordered to engage the enemy tanks gun control. His was the only gun firing in the Tp and in consequence the enemy concentrated their fire on his gun. For about one hour L/Sjt Bevan continued to engage the enemy tanks over open sights. Every time the enemy tried to come on they were forced back to a hull down position. Several direct hits were scored. Two of L/Sjt Bevan’s detachment were killed and two wounded during this action. L/Sjt Bevan showed a fine disregard for danger and was an inspiration to the remainder of his detachment.”
The full medal details are WWII Distinguished Conduct Medal, 1939-1945, Africa (8th Army clasp), Italy stars, Defence Medal and BWM to 1068689 L.Sjt M. Bevan R.A.