1939-45 Star; Italy Star; Defence Medal; War Medal 1939-45; Efficiency Medal bar Territorial (3857155 TPR. J. DALY. R.TKS.) - in original award box addressed to Mr James Daly, 29 Grantham Close, Hamble, S'hampton, Hants.
James Daly was born in Southampton in 1911. He served with the Royal Tank Corps (Queens Bays) in Italy and, according to the 1939 Register was living at 26 Wilton Ave, Southampton, Hampshire. He was employed as an Aircraft Upholsterer Fabric Heavy Worker.
The Queen's Bays, officially the 2nd Dragoon Guards, played a significant role in the Second World War as part of the Royal Armoured Corps. They were known for their bravery and long duration in action during the North African campaign, including battles at Gazala and Alamein. The regiment also participated in the Tunisian campaign and later saw action in Italy.
After the North African campaign, the regiment participated in the Tunisian campaign before moving on to Italy in May 1944 where they fought in several engagements, including the Battle of Argenta Gap and the engagement at Coriano Ridge. In Italy, the Queen's Bays lost all but three of their tanks and suffered heavy casualties at Coriano Ridge, demonstrating the intensity of the fighting.
Daly was awarded his Efficiency Medal in 1946 as part of the Royal Tank Corps. His medal were posted to him on 21 September 1949.
Sold with some research including four photographs of which three include the recipient. Two of which are detailed on the reverse with the words, "No.4 Troop, D/D Squadron 10.44), a Services Diary and For Loyal Services lapel badge. Medals are in good condition unless otherwise indicated.
