Military B.E.M., Korean War and GSM (Clasp – Cyprus) Medal Group of Four – W.O.II. T.J. Harris, Welch Regiment – Wounded in Action

A military BEM medal group of four with ephemera awarded to 22359963 Acting Warrant Officer Class II Terence James Harris, Welch Regiment / Royal Regiment of Wales, who was wounded in action in Korea. 

Elizabeth II British Empire Medal (Military Division) named to 22359963 Act. W/O.II. Terence J. Harris. R.R.W. 
Queen’s Korea Medal named to 22359963 Pte. T.J. Harris. Welch. 
United Nations Korea Medal unnamed as issued 
General Service Medal (Clasp – Cyprus) named to 22359963 Sgt. T. Harris. Welch. 

London Gazette: 
B.E.M. 3rd June 1972 
  “Sergt. (A/WOII) Harris has been a PSI with this Bn since 20 Jun 69. His first 21 months with the Bn., at that time designated The Welsh Volunteers, were spent with B Coy at Newport where he was the senior PSI and as such did exceptionally good work. In Apr 71, however, when the TAVR expanded, the Welsh Volunteers were disbanded and used to form a nucleus for two new TAVR Bns. At this stage A/WOII Harris was transferred to Abertillery where a completely new Coy was to be formed as part of the new 3rd (V) Bn The Royal Regiment of Wales.

Throughout his Army career A/WOII Harris has always been noted for his energy and drive. At no time, however, have these qualities been more apparent and more profitably directed that in the last ten months. As the only PSI and regular soldier in the new Coy, the main burden and responsibility for recruiting men for this new sub-unit devolved on A/WOII Harris. He willingly and enthusiastically accepted the challenge. In the succeeding ten months, by his quiet determination, exceptional zeal and remarkable resourcefulness A/WOII Harris has raised over 60 % of his full establishment and is still drawing in fresh recruits. In itself this is a commendable effort but is not rested there. Using his forceful personality and dynamic drive he has forged this raw material into a throroughly effective and happy company.

No man has or could have worked harder to make this new Coy a success. There keenness, efficiency and cheerful ‘esprit de corps’ reflect the inspired leadership high standards and dedication of A/WOII Harris. It is typical of his unassuming character that he disclaim all credit for this. Nevertheless he alone, by his tireless effort and selfless devotion – far above the normal call of duty – and his superb personal example has accomplished this notable success.

A/WOII Harris is due to leave the Army in Sep 72 and official recognition now of his many years of loyal service, and his recent magnificent contribution to the effectiveness, standing and sense of purpose of the TAVR and this Bn would be justly deserved and warmly welcomed by his regiment.”

Harris served in Korea from 10th October 1951 to 28th January 1952. He was wounded in action on 10th December 1951, sustaining gun shot wounds to his left leg and right thigh. 

The group comes with his Red Certificate of Service Book, copy citation for his BEM, letter from Queen regarding BEM, original Telegram to his mother stating he was wounded in action on 10/12/1951, original letter from his Platoon Commander to his mother stating her son was wounded by a Chinese “burp” gun in the legs during a Chinese attack, original letter from the Infantry Record Office confirming the telegram stating he had been wounded but had no further details as yet, original letter from the Infantry Record Office stating her son had sustained Gun Shot wounds to his left leg and right thigh, 4 x original letters congratulating him on the award of his BEM, BEM Box of issue and large outer card box of issue for BEM and Queen’s letter.

Also included is his miniature medals, Welch Regiment cap badge and Welch Regiment medallion. 

Regiment: Welch Regiment / Royal Regiment of Wales