Military Medal GVR (2582617 A. SJT. F.T. ROBERTS. R. SIGNALS.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; Defence Medal; War Medal 1939-45; Efficiency Medal GVIR bar Territorial (2852617 SJT. F.T. ROBERTS. M.M. R. SIGS.)
Frederick Thomas Roberts, perhaps oddly, completed his CS20 - Application for WWII medals - in the name of Frederick Thomas Stapleton, suggesting that he may have changed his name at some point. His medals were posted to him on 24 September 1948 to Mr F.T. Stapleton. M.M. Warfleet Cottage, Dartmouth, S. Devon.
Roberts was awarded an immediate Military Medal for bravery in Italy in the London Gazette of 26 October 1944. His entry has "Chadwell Heath" next to his name. The citation for his award reads thus:
"Sgt Roberts was responsible for laying lines in the TROCCHIO area and forwards. During the period May 11th/May 18th 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 1550 hours 12 May - 2355 13 May the line from purple Sector control to 99 Lt AA Regt was constantly broken by shelling and mortar fire, and Sgt Roberts was employed for 21 hours on this line during this period. On one occasion 57 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 Sgt Roberts laid two lines from 10 Bde exchange across the river to the D.M.A.
During the laying of the lines there was considerable shelling and mortaring and their construction was of great assistance in providing communication across the river both for Brigades and the D.M.A. During the whole of this period Sgt Roberts working very long hours under 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."
Roberts was awarded the Efficiency Medal in 1949 and passed away in Torquay on 11 November 1979.
Medals are in good condition unless indicated otherwise. Sold with some research.
