Mervyn Mitton

A friend recently brought this group in to show me - it is in the Family and will not be sold. However, I thought a few photos might be of interest - I am not researching-it. I think Brett would like it - Korea is one of his specialities. Mervyn The group is for - Captain George Dodson DFC There are his WW2 medals - followed by what I think are US awards. He was with the South African Squadron in Korea and was a pilot. The DFC is in the Bank - so, not available for a photo. His Korean group includes the rare South African Volunteers medal - named to Lt. G.C.S.Dodson. Then his UN medals and finally, the Sth. Korean award. I think they awarded a later comm. medal which has not been claimed. Hopefully Brett can tell us more about him - the SA medal is shown at 1500 pounds in the MYB. ......................................................................http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_04_2013/post-6209-0-60406700-1365676329.jpgclick..........................

Thankyou for this touching memorial post. A very full life - and one dedicated to his Country. God be with him. Mervyn

Alf - you may have found a new collecting interest ? I think Paul has a good point about collecting them for display. Interesting that you found one for Edward 8th. - a touch of the Art Deco style in the 'E'. Mervyn

Mike - SA is a 'shooting' Country and I see quite a few medallions - however, this is a special one with it's direct link to the Canadian contingency. I wish I could get to Canada to see your collection - since that's not possible, please keep posting................ Mervyn

David B. I am not at all happy with this post - I think you are being deliberately provocative and in a way that could get GMIC into problems. We may have our own opinions on the Zulu King - the fact is that he is recognised by the Government. You choose to live in Natal and whilst free speech is still allowed it is not polite to be so rude about someone who is recognised by over 12 million people. Regarding the Battle of Isandlawana - the British press make their own headlines - to say 'Defeat of the British Army' has to be correct in that the troops present represented the British Army on that occasion. I don't think anyone could think it meant the Zulu Army could defeat the might of the British Army in full. You have only recently joined GMIC and some of your posts have been well researched and are interesting. Possibly taken from earlier articles you have written ? However, you seem to be going out of your way to be controversial and forcing your opinions on us. I have pointed out in an IM that it is better to take things slowly and let Members become accustomed to you. I will discuss with the Chairman if this entire post should be deleted.

If you're right Tim, then well done on a good ident.. This must have been quite a rare unit ? Mervyn

Hi - Timo. I must say that I agree with Peter - not my 'cup of tea'. However since you are a collector of Irish Regts., then it is a good piece. I thought India when I first looked - have a look and see where they served. Meanwhile you've got something made in a Bazaar to sell to unwary soldiers. Since Egyptians and Indians made good livings from doing this, then I suppose it comes down to the service area. Mervyn

I may be wrong on this point - however, I think the recipient of an MID was issued with two full size oak leaves. If they couldn't find the miniature they probably did as this man - used the spare one. Perhaps someone can confirm the issue ? Mervyn

Christer - you have turned this post into a very interesting one with your early postcards - thankyou. Please add when you have time - it's like looking at a time capsule. Mervyn

Tidbit - welcome to GMIC. Do you actually collect - or, just have an interest ? We will always be very pleased to see posts from you on this subject. Mervyn

Nottingdale - welcome to GMIC - we prefer first names, more friendly - but, obviously is optional. The amount of info. that has been found for you is great. I served at Bethnal Green, but it had come under 'H' Division at that time. Your Great Grandfather's warrant number was 73235 - so, he was that far in numbers from the 1st Police officer to march out in 1829. My number was 158277 in 1967 - 79 years down the line from him. The numbers must be well into the 200,000's by now. Mervyn

Rod - a very nice example - and probably solid silver. These have become a collectible field in their own right - so I hope you will continue looking for them. Drunkenness was such a problem in those days. Mervyn

Thankyou Colin - that certainly makes a difference. A case of jumping to conclusions because of the Italian label. I only come occasionally to this forum to admire the models - Ulsterman has referred to a post by Bruni - I can't find this - what was the association ? Mervyn

Mike a great piece - and by Wyon. Does the Association still exist - and, is this still an annual prize ? Was this from the Show ? Mervyn

Think of it as more like a British walking stick. I haven't forgotten the shield - The African East Coast seacom cable off of Egypt has been ruptured. Until repairs our hours allowed on internet are severely restricted. Mervyn

Can anyone assist David ?

Are any members able to assist ?

From looking at the photos they appear to be OK - perhaps a coat of varnish to protect them has caused the loss of any patination. Tennant's are a reputable Auctioneers - your first enquiry should be with them for their opinion. If there is time, do this in writing so that you have a record of their opinion. Also, read their Conditions of Sale - this will give their policy on items that prove not to be genuine. Mervyn

Will - another superb group for your collection. Hope all is well ? Mervyn

Yes - it is Zulu - and a very nice example for someone of importance (at least in his mind). This is not a fighting Iwisa - it is an Iqubhanga (Iqubanga) These were carried by chiefs in the Kraal. It is of course a weapon in it's own right, but was mainly used as a staff of office. Mervyn

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