Royal Tank Corps Brass Plaque, impressed 6391779 / HOWARD. E., an embossed tank inside a wreath with a banner stating FEAR NAUGHT and a crown on top, measures 72.66mm (w) x 114.68mm (h), rectangular cutouts along top and bottom, circular holes on each side and at top, slightly bent, visible corrosion, fine condition; A silver Conty automatic lighter, side engraved TANKY, measures 29.84mm (w) x 63.28mm (l) x 9.25mm (d), hood and fork broken, not in working order, fine condition; A Soldier’s Release Book Class “A”, pages of text partially complete, worn, fine condition; Certificate of Service Booklet, extremely fine condition; Royal Tank Corps Association Booklet, near very fine condition; Soldier’s Service and Pay Book, pages of text partially complete, pages detached from spine, fine condition; Original Birth Certificate, dated 1898 from Lewes, Sussex, heavily creased and slightly worn, fine condition; Original Marriage Certificate, dated 1952 from Richmond Yorkshire, heavily creased, near very fine condition.
Accompanied by a black and white studio photograph, six original letters of testimonials regarding Howard’s military character all dated 1945.
Footnote: Earnest Alfred Howard was born on August 14, 1898 to James and Elizabeth Howard in Lewes, Sussex. Prior to enlisting in Chichester 1925 he was employed as a baker. He completed courses in driving, maintenance, and as a tactical gunner.
Howard served as a warrant officer II class in the Royal Tank Regiment (Royal Armoured Corps), and for two and a half years he was in charge of his company. He served in India, Egypt and at home in England.
In 1928, he married Jessie Harrison. Together they had four children, William Stephen, Elizabeth Fran, Cecil Stanley and Ernest Frank. He was released from his service in 1946.