Groups and Single Decorations for Gallantry

An outstanding Second War ‘Anzio Beachhead’ Immediate D.C.M. group of seven awarded to Company Sergeant-Major Ernest McNea, The Duke of Wellington’s Regiment, who died subsequently during the Anzio operations; such was the battalion’s reputation that it was afterwards selected to represent the British Army at the victory parade to mark the formal entry into Rome Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.VI.R. (4611239 W.O. Cl. 2. E. McNea. D.W.R.); India General Service 1908-35, 1 clasp, North West Frontier 1935 (4611239 Pte. E. McNea, D.W.R.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, these last five unnamed as issued, good very fine (7) £3,000-£4,000 --- One of only six D.C.M.’s to the regiment for the Second World War and the only one for Anzio. D.C.M. London Gazette 15 June 1944. The original recommendation for an Immediate D.C.M. submitted by Lieutenant-Colonel B. W. Webb-Carter, D.S.O., Comg. 1st Bn. The Duke of Wellington Regiment states: ‘Italy: On 4 Feb 44, “B” Coy, 1st Bn D.W.R. was holding a position on the left flank of the Battalion in the left sector of the Anzio beachhead. From 0300 hrs until 1630 hrs the enemy put in continued attacks on this Company’s position. These attacks were successfully repulsed, until finally No. 4 Platoon was over-run with the loss of Platoon Comd. This enemy success opened to them the Company’s position, and if not dealt with promptly, would have allowed them to dominate another Rifle Company and Battalion HQ, with possibly very serious effect. At this time the O.C. “B” Coy was engaged with the enemy away from his HQ and no other officer remained with the Coy. CSM McNea appreciated the gravity of the threat, and immediately organised a counter-attack drawing the personnel from his own Company HQ, a much depleted Platoon of his own Company, and men from other units in the vicinity. He personally led the attack, which he conducted with skill and great determination, finally driving the enemy from their recently won position, inflicting severe losses upon them. Later, the Battalion was ordered to withdraw, and had it not been for this action by CSM McNea, the ability of two Rifle Companies and Battalion HQ to do so may have been rendered impossible by the presence of the enemy behind them. By his initiative, coolness and high personal courage, CSM McNea inspired his men and undoubtedly prevented an enemy success which may have had serious and far reaching results.’ Ernest McNea died on active service on 1 March 1944, aged 29, and is buried at Beach Head War Cemetery, Anzio, Italy.