Anzio awarded Military Medal
899429 Bmbr Barnes MM R.A. (64th Field Regiment)
MM for Anzio:
On 18th February 44' All attempts at maintenance of the forward post with ration and wireless batteries had failed owing to enemy to enemy fire. Bmbr Barnes volunteered to take batteries to the post, although fully aware of the hazardous nature of the enterprise. Under constant shell-fire, mortar fire and sniping from small arms, bmdr barnes accompanied by l/bdr Hughes reached the bn HQ and delivered the sorely needed batteries. By his bravery and determination communications were upheld. Upon his return to the bty OP which was 400x in rear of bn HQ, bdr Barnes reported his mission completed to the OP officer , and then helped to defend the OP which was being attacked by the enemy armed flame throwers(!!!!) Bdr Barnes continued to use his TSMG. In defence of the OP until wounded and the party was ordered to withdraw. By his great determination and bravery in delivering batteries to his battery commander hen sorely need and his subsequent defence of the OP until wounded, Bdr Barnes showed a splendid example and it was largely due to his efforts that continuous support by the Artillery was maintained on the front of the 7th Btn Oxford and Buckinghamshire L.I."
This was one of only 4 MMs for Anzio awarded to the RA.
No. 899429 Bombardier Eric Jaberth Barnes, Royal
Regiment of Artillery (Rye, Sussex).
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