Military Medal, GVIR. (2582617 A. SJT. F. T. ROBERTS. R. SIGNALS.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; Efficiency Medal, GVIR. bar Territorial (2582617 SGT. F. T. ROBERTS. M.M. R. SIGS.) - together with three commemorative medals, for Dunkirk 1940; the Royal Federation of Veterans of King Albert I of Belgium; and the European Confederation of Combat Veterans, these three all with their related miniature awards
Frederick Thomas Roberts was born in Cardiff, Wales on 25 February 1911. He attested for service with the Royal Signals seeing service with them in Africa and Italy where he was awarded the MM in 1944 (London Gazette 26 October 1944)
The original recommendation states: Sergeant Roberts was responsible for laying lines in the Trocchio area and forwards. During the period 11 May to 18 May [1944] he spent on the average five hours a day in the open repairing lines under shell fire and mortar fire. This was apart from the many hours repair work which had to be undertaken on lines which were not at the time under shell fire, and the time spent in laying new lines.
In particular during the period from 1550 hours on 12 May to 2355 hours on 13 May, the line from Purple Sector Control to 99 Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment was constantly broken by shelling and mortar fire, and Sergeant Roberts was employed for 21 hours on this line during this period. On one occasion fifty-seven breaks were mended. This line was of the greatest importance as it provided the only communication to the regiment responsible for smoking the River Gari.
In addition, during the day of 16 April, Sergeant Roberts laid two lines from 10 Brigade exchange across the river to the D.M.A. During the laying of these lines there was considerable shell and mortaring and their construction was of the greatest assistance in providing communication across the river both for brigades and for the D.M.A. Doing the whole of this period Sergeant Roberts, working very long hours and in very adverse conditions, remained cheerful, tireless, and a fine example to his men. His example did much to ensure good line communication within his area of responsibility.’
He died in Torquay on 11 November 1979
Sold with some research. Medals are in good condition unless otherwise indicated.
