Description
A Battle of Imphal, Burma Campaign, BEM awarded to Serjeant John Bowie Davidson Royal Engineers, 33rd Indian Corps, comprising British Empire Medal, GRI, (Mily), (2019136 Sgt John B. Davidson R.E.), 1939-45 Star, Burma Star, 1939-45 Defence Medal, 1939-45 War Medal, all unnamed as issued, BEM on Pin mounted for wear, lightly toned very fine.
BEM The London Gazette 28th June 1945
“In recognition of gallant and distinguished service in Burma, 2019136 Sergeant John Bowie Davidson Corsp of Royal Engineers (London W12)”
33 Indian Corps
RE HQ C.R.E. G.R.E.M. Troops 2019136 W/S Serjeant John Bowie Davidson
No 2019136 Sjt. J.B. Davidson has been Chief Clerk of this Headquarters since November 1941. From the date of his joining, his devotion to duty has been of the highest order.
During the present operations this Headquarters has been called upon to carry out tasks which are quite outside the scope of a C.R.E’s responsibility. Units under command have been equivalent to a Brigade on more than one occasion, but the office staff has always remained the same – designed to operate and administer three Field Companies and a Field Park Company. Sjt Davidson, therefore, form the commencement of operations on March 16 1944, until the Headquarters flew out on the IMPHAL area o May 1944, was called upon with an office staff of himself and two clerks, to carry out Operational and Administrative duties for units of all arms– Gunners, Engineers, Infantry and Pioneers. The fact that these duties were carried out with speed and efficiency, at all times including periods under enemy shell-fire in BISHENPUR in April and May 1944, reflects greatly on the keenness and devotion to duty of this NCO.
After Joining 33rd Indian Corps on May 25 1944, the same conditions prevailed: a large number of units was put under command of this Headquarters, and administrative work, over and above operational work, was therefore extremely copious. Sjt. Davidson, by unstinted hard work, has always kept well on top of his job. He has worked cheerfully and efficiently under the most trying conditions: always ready to be on the job, at any hour, his assistance has been invaluable, and his example to others a tremendous asset.
BEM Authorised By Lt. Gen W. J. Slim, G.O.C. in Chief 14th Army.
Sold with Copy Citation, Copy London Gazette entry, original Box for BEM, Original “King’s Letter” of award original Campaign Awards Bestowal slip confirming 1939-45 Star, Burma Star and a Defence and War Medal, Campaign Stars lacking ribbons.
