Pte. William Ledger MM.
British Army 186th Field Ambulance Royal Army Medical Corps
from:Dunston-on-Tyne
Bill Ledger served in the RAMC. He was quiet simply the kindest, most loveliest man I had the privilege to call my uncle. He devoted his life to St John's Ambulance and the Dunkirk veterans association and also to the Royal British Legion. He and his wife, Ann, lived in Dunston all their lives. He was well known and loved by all who knew him.
Even though he attended military commemorative events and wore his medals with pride he never talked of his time in the army except to play it down. For example when I asked about his Dunkirk medal he would just say "we got that for running away" wink and give a little cheeky smile.
His military medal citation reads: "On the night of the 20th/21st of March 1943 this Orderly was on duty in an advanced and unprotected Advanced Dressing Station at 628075 half a mile from the most forward Regimental Aid Post. During a period of very intense mortar fire and air bursts, he heard a wounded man crying in pain near 69th brigade HQ. Without any regard to his personal safety he set out by himself and brought this casualty in unaided through heavy fire. By his gallant deed he most certainly saved this soldier's life. In addition he showed the greatest coolness and endurance and was a continual source of inspiration to his comrades. It is felt that the conduct of this soldier during battle merits immediate recognition."
When he died aged 84, his comrades gave him a full military funeral. I was so proud of him but I'm still finding more and more things about him. Like finding the citation for his M.M which made me cry when I read it the first time. We miss him dearly.
