Thread: Walter Lane & The Italy Star

I have discovered that my deceased father in law

Walter Lane born March 14 1925 in Boston, Lincs

was awarded the Italy Star with an oak leaf during WW2

How do I find out exactly when, where & why he was awarded this medal please

Try posting on this site:-



http://www.ww2talk.com/



Regards, Tom

thanx tom

Hi



Can I ask what service he was in - I know that the Italy Star was awarded to Royal and Merchant Navy service in the Mediterranean and the Aegean Sea and operations in and around the Dodecanese Islands, Corsica, Greece, Sardinia and Yugoslavia after 11 June 1943. However, it was also awarded to air force and army personnel.



Some service records are easier to research than others - so a little guidance may help us to help you.

Walter was in the army in following units

GSC 4/43 - 6/43

LANCS fUSILIERS 6/43 - 10/44

Queens Royal Regiment 10/44 - 3/46

Sussex Regiment 3/36 - 10/47

The Oak Leaf shows that he was mentioned in despatches - if it is silver then it signifies a King's Commendation for Brave Conduct.



I have had a look for him in the National Archives under the recommendations for awards etc. but no joy and they don't have records for Army recipients of this medal - only some naval.



As he was "mentioned in despatches" you might be lucky and find reference to him in the London Gazette

http://www.london-gazette.co.uk/search



The Italy Star Association may be able to help and who knows they may even have members who fought alongside your late father-in-law - there are branches all around the country - just google to find their details.



Good Luck