Groups and Single Decorations for Gallantry

An outstanding Second War ‘El Alamein 1942’ D.C.M. group of seven awarded to Lance-Corporal H. Sleeth, 1/7th Battalion, Middlesex Regiment, who was several times wounded during the battle for Miteirya Ridge Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.VI.R. (6200387 L. Cpl. H. Sleeth. Midd’x R.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, extremely fine (7) £2,400-£2,800 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 4 May 1943. The original recommendation for the immediate award of the Distinguished Conduct Medal states: ‘North Africa: Battle of Alemein [action of Miteirya Ridge]. On the night of the 23rd October 1942, during the advance, Lance-Corporal Sleeth was hit in the back by a piece of shell casing which knocked him off his feet. Although carrying four belts of ammunition and a box of spare parts, he carried on for two further miles and successfully delivered his load to the gun line. The Platoon was shooting during the whole of the following morning and came under mortar fire, Lance-Corporal Sleeth was again hit, this time in the left arm but refused attention. That evening the Platoon accompanied two Companies of the 5th/7th Battalion Gordon Highlanders which went forward to reach the final object. During the following day, October 25th, the Platoon was under heavy mortar and shell fire and Lance-Corporal Sleeth was hit once more in the left arm. By October 26th the position was cut off and the Platoon had no food or water and very little ammunition. The wireless was out of order and no contact could be made to the rear, Lance-Corporal Sleeth volunteered to go back and bring up supplies by carrier. He set off in the afternoon through minefields and over ground swept by shell and Machine Gun fire and successfully reached Company H.Q. He returned at first light to the position with supplies of food, water and ammunition. He was subsequently injured by a grenade explosion and had to be evacuated. The conduct of this N.C.O. throughout the complete operation was of a very high order. His steadfastness under fire and the calm and determined manner in which he carried out his duties in spite of being wounded several times, were an inspiration to the remainder of his Platoon.’