bentley priory - Spink

THE BENTLEY PRIORY BATTLE OF BRITAIN TRUST APPEAL CHARITY AUCTION
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A Fine Great War Pilot’s M.C. Group of Four to Major W.A.
Grattan-Bellew, Connaught Rangers and No. 25, Squadron Royal
Flying Corps, Who Was Awarded the Military Cross For Three
Separate Combat Actions With Enemy Aircraft, April-June 1916,
Forcing Two Down and His Observer Destroying Another; He
Later Commanded No. 29 Squadron From September 1916 Until
His Death From Injuries Sustained During A Flying Accident,
24.3.1917
a) Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued
b) 1914-15 Star (2.Lieut. W.A. Grattan-Bellew R.F.C.)
c) British War and Victory Medals, M.I.D. Oak Leaves (Major W.A.
Grattan-Bellew), good very fine, together with a comprehensive file of
research (4)
£3,000-4,000
M.C. London Gazette 27.7.1916 2nd Lt. (temp. Capt.) William Arthur Grattan
Bellow, Conn. Rang, and R.F.C.
For conspicuous gallantry and skill on several occasions, notably the following:
With three other machines he attacked and drove off eight enemy machines,
forcing one to the ground. He attacked four Fokkers, forcing one down to
2,500 feet. Another was seen to crash to the ground during the fight. When on
a bombing raid two of the machines got behind owing to clouds, and were
attacked by Fokkers. Capt. Grattan Bellew returned and attacked three Fokkers,
one of which his Observer shot down and the others made off.
The Recommendation, dated 26.6.1916, states: ‘For skill and gallantry,
especially on the following occasions: ó
On 27th April 1916, he, with 3 other F.E.s attacked 8 Aviatiks and drove them
out of Army Area. Captain Grattan-Bellew drove down one of them, which
landed at Illies.
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