British Empire Medal, (Military) G.VI.R., 1st issue (GC.12601 Sgt. Issaka Moshi. W.A.A.)

Award verification: The British Empire Medal to Sergeant Issaka Moshi, West African Artillery, is confirmed, per the award notice that was published in the London Gazette issue of, 8 February 1945. The preamble to the awards list states:

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CENTRAL CHANCERY OF THE ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD.

St. James's Palace, S.W.I.

8th February, 1945.

The KING has been graciously pleased to approve the award of the British Empire Medal (Military Division), hi recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Burma and on the Eastern Frontier of India, to the undermentioned.....

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The official recommendation for the British Empire Medal is quoted below:

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Since his arrival in ASSAM in November 1943 this NCO has exhibited outstanding enthusiasm and ability in the handling of AOR's. His efforts have contributed greatly to the efficiency and high morale of his unit. His example to young soldiers has been of the highest order.

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The recommendation chain per the recipient's official recommendation for the British Empire Medal shows that it was Lt-General (later Field Marshal) W. J. Slim, General Officer, Commander-in- Chief, Fourteenth Army, that signed the approval for the award

In addition to the B.E.M., Sergeant Issaka Moshi, 3rd (West African) Heavy Anti-Aircraft Battery, West African Artillery, of the 14th West African Anti-Aircraft Brigade, would have additionally been entitled to the below following un-named campaign medals, struck ex Royal Mint:

- The 1939-1945 Star. No clasp
- The Burma Star. No clasp
- Defence Medal
- War Medal

Important: The brilliant services performed by the West African troops during the Burma Campaign, can not be underestimated. No less than two complete West African Divisions served overseas in Burma, vis 81st & 82nd West African Divisions, from which 3 x battalions, of the Nigeria Regiment, vis: 6th Battalion Nigeria Regiment (66 and 39 Columns); 7th Battalion, Nigeria Regiment (29 and 35 Columns) and 12th Battalion Nigeria Regiment (12 and 43 Columns) served served as 'Chindits' with Special Force in 1944, during 'Operation Thursday' (Second Chindit Expedition)

A rare seen, and highly desirable Burma Theatre British Empire Medal to a West African N.C.O. 'Gunner' from the Gold Coat (now Ghana) who served with the hard fighting 81st West African Division of the 14th Army

Some contacting from the campaign stars to the rim of the BEM, affecting the recipients forename, which is however all legible

Condition: VF

Code: 23943