A Chinese small biscuit glazed 'tree shrew' water dropper, Qing Dynasty, probably Kangxi, Rothschild label no. 438, 8.5cm longProvenance: Anthony Gustav de Rothschild, 1887-1961, the collection principally formed by him in the 1920s and 1930s Mrs Renée Robeson, (née de Rothschild), 1927-2015, believed gifted to her by Anthony de Rothschild in the late 1930s or 1940sBy family descent and sold by order of a member of the de Rothschild FamilyCompare with a similar example in William R Sargent, The Copeland Collection, Salem, p. 34 and another at the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford and a white glazed pair of tree shrews at Ascott House, Buckinghamshire, illustrated in The Anthony de Rothschild Collection of Chinese Ceramics, Regina Krahl, 1996, p.410, no. 233清 三彩松鼠型水呈拍品来源：罗斯柴尔德家族Anthony Gustav de Rothschild（1887-1961）私人收藏，收藏于上世纪20至30年代之间，后由家族继承 Condition Report: one ear chippedcollection label inside vesselCondition Report Disclaimer
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A fine Chinese bronze ritual wine vessel and cover, Ju You, Late Shang Dynasty, 12th-11th century BC, the broad pear-shaped body is raised on a splayed foot and the shoulder and cover with lozenge leiwen bordered by circles and centred on each side with an animal-mask, the twisted-rope, swing handle is joined at the shoulder by two simple loops and the domed cover is surmounted by an ovoid finial, the exterior and interior surfaces are covered with a mottled encrustation of bright malachite and azurite, and the interior base and inner cover are both cast with the clan mark, approximately 31cm high x approximately 23cm wide x approximately 16cm deepProvenance: Sotheby's, London, November 18th, 1998, lot 873 where purchased by the current owner and recently removed form a country house in West BerkshireThe clan mark, reading '丙' [bing], was associated with the Bing clan residing in todays Shanxi Province. A bronze jue vessel, late Shang dynasty, with similar clan symbol, bing, was excavated in 1953, Anyang, Henan Province, tomb no.304, and is now in the National Museum of China, Beijing; see Zhongguo qing tong qitu ji, Beijing, 2005, p.125. Further examples can be found in other important museum collections; see R. Bagley, Shang Ritual Bronzes in the Arthur M. Sackler Collections, Cambridge, Mass., 1987, pp.194-195; in the collection of the British Museum, see W. Watson, Ancient Chinese Bronzes, London, 1977, pl.10b; and in the Shanghai Museum, see Shanghai Museum: Ancient Chinese Bronze Gallery, Shanghai, p.9. 晚商 青铜雷纹提梁"丙"卣「丙」金文铸款拍品来源：西伯克郡私人收藏，现藏家于1998年11月18日购自伦敦苏富比Condition Report: the exterior and interior surfaces are covered with a mottled encrustation of bright malachite and azuriteold corrosion consistent with date crack to foot 4.5cm long and various knocks and chips to foot rim cover edges with casting flaw and old knocks and chips Condition Report Disclaimer
Two Chinese Ge-type foliate bowls, Daoguang-six character mark in underglaze blue and of the Period, the bowls are delicately moulded with six sides mimicking the petals of an open flower, rising to a shaped rim and supported on a short foot, covered overall in a crackled pale grey glaze, 12.2cm diameter (2) Provenance: By repute collected in China by Dr E. R. Wheeler, first half of the 20th century, during his time as Director of the School of Medicine, Shantung Christian University, Tsinan (Jinan) and then by family descent. 清道光 哥釉莲瓣碗拍品来源：由惠勒博士于20世纪上半叶在济南担任山东基督教大学医学院院长期间在中国收藏，之后由家族后人继承。Condition Report: one damagedCondition Report Disclaimer
A pair of Chinese biscuit glazed models of seated smiling boys, Kangxi, with arms raised, glazed in yellow and green, each with Rothschild labels no. 416 and one with earlier label beneath, 7.5cm high (2)Provenance: Anthony Gustav de Rothschild, 1887-1961, the collection principally formed by him in the 1920s and 1930s Mrs Renée Robeson, (née de Rothschild), 1927-2015, believed gifted to her by Anthony de Rothschild in the late 1930s or 1940sBy family descent and sold by order of a member of the de Rothschild FamilyLiterature: Compare with similar, but not identical, examples illustrated in, William R Sargent, The Copeland Collection, Salem, p. 68-69清康熙 三彩童子一对拍品来源：罗斯柴尔德家族Anthony Gustav de Rothschild（1887-1961）私人收藏，收藏于上世纪20至30年代之间，后由家族继承 Condition Report: one boy with right foot restored Condition Report Disclaimer
A rare pair of Chinese white glazed figures of horse water droppers, Kangxi, shown recumbent on shaped bases, with brown glazed segmented manes and forelocks, one with open hole to centre of mane and one with open hole on back, pricked ears, with legs bent as if about to stand, one with Rothschild label no. 392 and retailer's label for S. Gorer & Son. London, the other with label inscribed 41, 15cm long (2)Provenance: Anthony Gustav de Rothschild, 1887-1961, the collection principally formed by him in the 1920s and 1930s Mrs Renée Robeson, (née de Rothschild), 1927-2015, believed gifted to her by Anthony de Rothschild in the late 1930s or 1940sBy family descent and sold by order of a member of the de Rothschild FamilyLiterature: Compare with a related pair of piebald horses, illustrated by William R Sargent in, The Copeland Collection, Peabody Museum Salem, No. 20, p. 63-65; Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge, for a pale yellow glazed single version, accession number C.2-1962; the British museum, accession number 'Franks 504'; and also those from the Nelson Rockefeller collection. A pair of white glazed horses of the same model, formerly in the Ionides Collection, were sold at Sotheby's, London, July 2nd, 1963, lot 31.清康熙 三彩马型水呈一对拍品来源：罗斯柴尔德家族Anthony Gustav de Rothschild（1887-1961）私人收藏，收藏于上世纪20至30年代之间，后由家族继承 Condition Report: The right hand horse with both ears restored and 2cm hair crack in base and firing blemishes to glaze and scratches and small chip to maneThe left hand horse with one ear missing and one ear restored and large piece glued to top of mount but original piece re-stuck and tail re-glue and small chip to mane and hair crack through base and blemishes to glaze and scratches Condition Report Disclaimer
A mixed lot of Spider-Man / Marvel Trading cards to include: - 2002 Artbox: Spider-Man see-through collectors cards, number 1-72 (missing 5 and 41) - Various 2002 Artbox see-through collectors cards, R / UR and Ph - Various other Limited edition see-through / gold-foiled / holographic cards, incomplete sets, Topps, 95 Flair Marvel Annual, OverPower Card Game etc
British War Medal 1914-20 (5) (K.38798 F. S. Chidley. Sto. 1 R.N.; 2. Lieut. F. R. Tripp.; 43597 Dvr. T. M. Wilkins. R.A.; M2-033482 Pte. F. A. Mc Elwee. A.S.C.; 1808 Pte. H. J. Stanley. 10 Bn. A.I.F.); War Medal 1939-45; together with a Second World War ‘For Loyal Service’ lapel badge, the first exhibiting signs of having been acid cleaned, otherwise generally very fine Renamed and Defective Medals (4): Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, no clasps (75 Orderly: F. W. Crane, St. John Amb: Bde:) suspension broken and planchet only, with surname partially officially corrected; British War Medal 1914-20 (3) (125141 Dvr. J. Maskell. R.A.; 861203 Pte. G. Haines 33-Lond. R.; 52676 Dvr... R.A.) the first two with suspensions broken and planchet only; the third partially erased; generally nearly very fine (9) £100-£140 --- Henry James Stanley attested for the Australian Imperial Force at Oaklands, South Australia, on 27 November 1914, and served with the 10th Battalion, Australian Infantry during the Great War. He died at home of typhoid fever on 31 July 1916, and is buried under a C.W.G.C. headstone in Fremantle Cemetery, Western Australia.
British War Medal 1914-20 (4) (234454 A. E. Moore. A.B. R.N.; M.19123 R. Rawlinson. Wmn. 2 R.N.; Lieut. C. Pritchard. R.N.R.; Wt. Tel. L. G. Farthing. R.N.R.) second lacquered, light contact marks, generally very fine (4) £100-£140 --- Alfred Edward Moore, a Shop Boy, from Lambeth, London attested for the Royal Navy for Boy Service on 23 August 1905. Advanced Ordinary Seaman on 1 March 1907 and Able Seaman on 18 February 1908, he saw service during the Great War in H.M.S. Weymouth in East Africa Waters against SMS Königsberg, eventually trapping her in the Rufiji River until she was sunk on 11 July 1915. Moore died of wounds, specifically of Epileptic Mania, thirteen days later in H.S. Guildford Castle on 24 July 1915. He is commemorated on the Chatham Naval Memorial. Reginald Rawlinson was born in Anfield, Liverpool on 18 February 1898. He attested for service with the Royal Navy during the Great War, and was killed when H.M.S. Vanguard, at anchor in Scapa Flow, suffered a series of magazine explosions shortly before midnight on 9 July 1917: she sank almost instantly, killing 843 of the 845 men aboard. He is commemorated on the Portsmouth Naval Memorial. Charles Pritchard was Born in Caernarfon, Wales in 1859. He was commissioned into the Royal Naval Reserve and served during the Great War in Aden in the coaster H.M.S. Skelwith, which was engaged in a patrol in the Straits of Perim, where the vessels employed on the coast had little excitement beyond an occasional boat action with dhows attempting to evade the naval blockade. He died, following a stroke, on 14 March 1916, aged 56 and is buried in Perim Cemetery, Yemen. Llewelyn Garfield Farthing was born in Builth Wells, Breconshire, on 30 May 1884. He attested for the Royal Naval Reserve and was commissioned Warrant Telegraphist on 28 March 1917, serving in H.M.S. Duke. He was later appointed Flight Lieutenant in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve on 24 July 1942 and saw service with the Technical Branch, attached to 214 Group, in Italy, during the Second World War. He died of heart failure, aged 60, on 29 October 1944 and is buried under a C.W.G.C. headstone in Bari War Cemetery, Italy.
British War Medal 1914-20 (9) (M.B.1715 P. Weighill. C.M.M. R.N.V.R.; L.Z.8637 C. W. Peach. Sig. R.N.V.R.; C.Z.1456 J. M. Ewing. A.B. R.N.V.R.; A.A.1592 A. J. Pierpoint. A.B. R.N.V.R.; T.Z.8178 A. Thompson. A.B. R.N.V.R.; C.Z.33667 A. Hill. A.B. R.N.V.R.; L.Z.8293 R. D. Dufflin. O. Tel. R.N.V.R.; R. G. Lee. Q.M. R.F.A.; Arthur G. Tredinnick) scratches to obverse of Peach medal, edge bruising and contact marks, otherwise generally very fine (9) £120-£160
British War Medal 1914-20 (2) (41458 Pte. S. Thornton. S. Staff. R.;27584 Pte. G. A. Buckley. M.G.C.); Victory Medal 1914-19 (8) (282543 Gnr. E. Eldridge. R.A.; L-25487 Dvr. J. W. Lavender. R.A.; 107212 Cpl. F. Webster. R.E.; 84208 Dvr. A. Gillson. R.E.; 34421 Pte. P. J. Curran. Linc. R.; 23795 Pte. F. Johnson. Durh. L.I.; 17954 Pte. P. Cullen. R. Ir. Rif.; C. Johnson. B.R.C. & St. J.J.) last lacking ring suspension; together with an erased Victory Medal 1914-19, generally nearly very fine and better (11) £80-£100
Victory Medal 1914-19 (7) (223064 H. J. Bowden. S.P.O. R.N.; 309420 R. E. Swoish. S.P.O. R.N.; SS.118992 S. G. Willgress. Sto.2 R.N.; K.49998 F. Davies. Sto.2 R.N.; K.49836 J. Hutchinson. Sto.2. R.N.; 4129TS A. M. G. Low. Engn. R.N.R.; B.Z. 10948 L. Goulding. Ord. R.N.V.R.) edge bruising and contact marks, generally nearly very fine and better (7) £70-£90
The G.S.M. ‘Iraq’ awarded to Private W. J. Grundy, Manchester Regiment, who was taken prisoner by the Arabs at the V.C. action of Hillah, 24 July 1920 General Service 1918-62, 1 clasp, Iraq (85038 Pte. W. J. Grundy. Manch R.) minor edge bruising, otherwise very fine £200-£300 --- W. J. Grundy resided at 106 Towson Street, Everton, Liverpool. He was taken prisoner by the Arabs at Hillah on 24 July, 1920. Grundy was subsequently released and rejoined his regiment at Kufah on 19 October, 1920. In this action the Manchesters, commanded by Captain G. S. Henderson, fought off a large party of Arabs at the point of bayonet, suffering severe casualties including Captain Henderson who was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross. The citation for Henderson’s Victoria Cross reads: ‘For most conspicuous bravery and self sacrifice. On the evening of the 24th July, 1920, when about fifteen miles from Hillah (Mesopotamia), the Company under his command was ordered to retire. After proceeding about 500 yards a large party of Arabs suddenly opened fire from the flank, causing the Company to split up and waver. Regardless of all danger, Capt. Henderson at once reorganised the Company, led them gallantly to the attack and drove off the enemy. On two further occasions this officer led his men to charge the Arabs with the bayonet and forced them to retire. At one time, wnen the situation was extremely critical and the troops and transport were getting out of hand, Capt. Henderson, by sheer pluck and coolness, steadied his command prevented the Company from being cut up and saved the situation. During the second charge he fell wounded, but refused to leave his command, and just as the Company reached the trench they were making for he was again wounded. Realising that he could do no more, he asked one of his N.C.O.'s to hold him up on the embankment, saying, "I'm, done now, don't let them beat you." He died fighting.’
The G.S.M. ‘Palestine’ awarded to Private S. Williams, 1st Battalion, Border Regiment, who served as part of the 1st Airlanding Brigade during Operation Market Garden, and was taken prisoner of war, 26 September 1944 General Service 1918-62, 1 clasp, Palestine (3854155 Pte. S. Williams. Loyal R.) very fine £200-£300 --- Samuel Williams was born in February 1912, attested for the 2nd Battalion, Loyal Regiment in October 1931, and served with them in Palestine, February 1936 - March 1937. He initially served during the Second War as a Cook in the UK prior to transferring 1st Battalion, Border Regiment in April 1944. Williams retrained, and emplaned with the Battalion as part of the 1st Airlanding Brigade to take part in Operation Market Garden, 17 September 1944. Williams was posted as ‘Missing’ 26 September 1944, later classified as taken prisoner of war and interned in Germany. After his release, Williams briefly served with the Royal Army Ordnance Corps prior o his discharge in December 1945. After the war he resided in Worsley, Manchester. Sold with copied service papers.
General Service 1962-2007, 4 clasps, Borneo, South Arabia, Malay Peninsula, Northern Ireland (RM.21742 M. R. Baker. Mne. R.M.) good very fine £400-£500 --- Sold with a research note from information supplied by the Royal Marines Museum that confirms all of the above clasps excepting that for Northern Ireland, this owing to the relevant roll still being restricted.
The Most Honourable Order of the Bath, C.B. (Military) Companion’s breast badge, 22 carat gold and enamels, hallmarked London 1857, maker’s mark ‘WN’ for William Neale, complete with gold swivel-ring suspension and gold ribbon buckle, in its R & S. Garrard & Co fitted case of issue, some very minor enamels loss, mainly to red berries and green leaves of wreaths, otherwise nearly extremely fine £2,000-£2,400
The Most Honourable Order of the Bath, C.B. (Military) Companion’s breast badge, 18 carat gold and enamels, hallmarked London 1877, complete with gold swivel-ring suspension and gold ribbon buckle, in its R & S. Garrard & Co fitted case of issue, one or two very minor chips, otherwise extremely fine £1,800-£2,200
A rare ‘Battle of Ginnis 1885’ gold D.S.O. group of four awarded to Colonel William Bennett, The Yorkshire Regiment (Green Howards), one of the best shots in the British Army Distinguished Service Order, V.R., gold and enamels, with integral top ribbon bar; India General Service 1854-95, 1 clasp, North West Frontier (Lieut. W Bennett 1st Bn. H.Ms. 19th Regt.); Egypt and Sudan 1882-89, undated reverse, 1 clasp, The Nile 1884-85 (Lieut: Col: W. Bennett 1/Yorks: R.); Khedive’s Star, dated 1884-6, some minor chips to wreaths of the D.S.O., otherwise nearly extremely fine (4) £6,000-£8,000 --- D.S.O. London Gazette 26 November 1886: ‘William Bennett, Colonel, Yorkshire Regiment. For the action at Ginnis’. This Gazette announced the very first awards of the newly created Distinguished Service Order, all for the action at Ginnis on 30 December 1885. William Bennett was born 15 November 1835 at Athlone, Ireland, eldest son of Captain Thomas Bennett, 14th Hussars, and of Winifred Bennett, daughter of the late N. Keatinge. He was educated at private schools, and joined the 1st Battalion, 19th Foot in India, as Ensign, in 1858, the battalion in which he afterwards served for 32 years. Shortly afterwards, he passed in Hindustani, and was appointed Regimental Interpreter. In 1862 he obtained a first-class certificate at the school of musketry, Hythe, and held the appointment of Instructor of Musketry to the 3rd Depot Battalion at Chatham, and afterwards to his regiment. He took part in the Hazara Campaign, North West Frontier of India, including the expedition against the Black Mountain Tribes, 1868 (medal with clasp). He married in 1869, Belinda, daughter of the late William Rosher, of Woodfield, Northfleet, Kent. He was promoted Captain in in 1871, and in July, 1877, returned to Hythe as Captain Instructor at the School, and was appointed D.A.A.G. for Musketry at Aldershot on 1 March, 1878, remaining in that position until, getting his Majority in 1881, he rejoined the Yorkshire Regiment at Halifax, Nova Scotia. When on the staff at Aldershot, he founded in 1878 the Annual Aldershot Rifle Meeting. Colonel Bennett always took a keen interest in shooting, being himself one of the best shots in the army, and winner of many important trophies in the matches of the Northern Indian Rifle Association, as well as a successful big game shot in Kashmir. An instance of his fine marksmanship in Target-Shooting was witnessed one day on the rifle range when, as regimental musketry instructor, he was endeavouring to train a batch of third class shots to make the best of the very inferior Lee-Enfield rifles which were at that time issued to the battalions in India. One of the men, after several tries, failed altogether to get a single shot on the target. “How is it, Private Atkins, that you are shooting so badly?” Inquired the instructor, “well Sir” said the man, “I think this ‘ere rifle is a bad one, I can’t make nothin’ of it.” Captain Bennett took the rifle from the man with his right hand only, put it to his shoulder and without touching it at all with his other hand, aimed at the target, and immediately made a bullseye. “I do not think there is much fault to be found with that rifle,” he remarked to the greatly surprised Mr Atkins. After much testing those rifles were ultimately changed for a superior make, with the result that the shooting of the regiment was so good the next year (1871) as to draw forth the following favourable remarks from the Commander in Chief in India: “The shooting is excellent, and evinces a degree of care in the performance of the annual course of musketry which is very creditable to the battalion. The exertions of the officer instructors, Captain Bennett and Lieutenant Emerson, have been reported to His Excellency as being worthy of special commendation, an expression of which Lord Napier of Magdala accordingly desires may be communicated to those officers.” As Major he served in the Nile expedition of 1884-5 and was promoted Lieutenant-Colonel in 1885; he served in the Sudan 1885-86 and commanded the 1st Battalion, The Yorkshire Regiment, in the action of Ginniss for which he was created a companion of the Distinguished Service Order and Mentioned in Despatches. He retired as full Colonel in 1890, after 22 years on the retired list, during which time, being very fond of travelling, Colonel Bennett visited the Holy Land and many parts of Europe and North Africa. He died of pneumonia and heart failure on 2 August 1912, at Whitby, Yorkshire, aged 76. An obituary and photograph appeared in the Green Howards Gazette in September 1912.
The Sutlej medal awarded to Major-General T. F. Forster, Bengal Army, who served as a Volunteer at the battle of Aliwal with the Shekhawattee Brigade, raised and commanded by his father Sutlej 1845-46, for Aliwal 1846, no clasp (Mr. T: F: Forster Shekhawattee Brig:) fitted with silver ribbon brooch, edge bruise, otherwise good very fine £800-£1,000 --- Thomas Francis Forster was born into this well known Anglo Indian family at Saugor on 16 September 1825. To his grandfather, Henry Pitts Forster, belongs the credit of publishing the first English work of lexicography for the Bengali language, as a result of which Bengali subsequently became the official language of the Presidency and the most prolific literary language of India. His father, Henry Forster, had a distinguished career and died in 1862 as a Colonel with a C.B., having raised the Shekhawattee Brigade in 1835 which served with great distinction in the Sutlej campaign and in the Indian Mutiny. Henry Forster’s first wife, Thomas’s mother, was killed at Delhi in May 1857, after which Henry Forster married Nina, an Indian. Thomas Forster received a classical education at the Parental Academic Institution in India, and was nominated for a Cadetship in the H.E.I.C. by Henry Alexander, a Director of the Company, on the recommendation of his father. His papers were examined and passed at Leadenhall Street on 3 December 1845. Forster was appointed an Ensign in the Bengal Presidency Army on 13 December 1845. Meantime, however, he had volunteered to serve with his father’s Shekhawattee Brigade in the Sutlej campaign and was present at the battle of Aliwal on 28 January 1846. It is noticeable that this battle took place some 7 weeks after he was examined and passed by the H.E.I.C. in London, but in fact he was personally examined and he signed his Cadet papers at Simla on 21 April 1846, by then being a battle veteran. He was appointed an Ensign in the 39th Bengal Native Infantry on 11 August 1846, and was promoted Lieutenant in that regiment on 28 November 1849. During the 1850’s he served with the Shekhawattee Brigade, still commanded by his father and with his eldest brother, Captain W. R. Forster, as Second-in-Command. He himself was appointed Adjutant of the Brigade on 3 March 1854. It is remarkable to note that another of his brothers, Henry Pitts Forster, who had died in 1850, had also served with the Shekhawattee Brigade at the battle of Aliwal, as had his eldest brother, William Robert Forster. On 15 December 1855, Thomas Forster was appointed an Assistant Commissioner in the Punjab, and on 15 April 1859 he was appointed an Assistant Commissioner 2nd Class. He served the remainder of his time in this service and was promoted Brevet Captain on 13 December 1860. He was appointed a Captain in the Staff Corps on 18 February 1861, and a Captain on the Cadre of Officers of the late 39th N.I. on 11 January 1864, becoming Major in the Staff Corps in December 1865, and Lieutenant-Colonel in December 1871. By 1877 he was Deputy Commissioner 2nd Class at Hissar, subsequently becoming a Deputy Commissioner 1st Class. He was promoted Brevet Colonel on 13 December 1876 and retired on full-pay on 26 September 1880, being granted a step in honorary rank to Major-General at the same time. Major-General T. F. Forster died at his home in Gloucester Gardens, Hyde Park, on 20 February 1906, aged 80. Sold with a considerable amount of research on the Forster family and the Shekhawattee Brigade which ultimately became the 13th Rajputs.
A Second War ‘Italy operations’ M.B.E. group of ten awarded to Acting Major N. F. Hart, Royal Army Service Corps, late Royal Fusiliers and Indian Cavalry The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, M.B.E. (Civil) Member’s 2nd type, breast badge; 1914-15 Star (15074 Pte. N. F. Hart. R. Fus.); Victory Medal 1914-19 (Lieut. N. F. Hart.) together with unrelated British War Medal 1914-18 (1453 W.O. Cl. 2. A. Green. 23-Lond. R.); India General Service 1908-35, 1 clasp, Afghanistan N.W.F. 1919 (Lt. N. F. Hart, 42/Cavy.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star; Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf, nearly very fine and better (10) £180-£220 --- M.B.E. London Gazette 28 June 1945 (Italy). M.I.D. London Gazette 11 January 1945 (Italy). Norman Foley Hart served with the 25th Royal Fusiliers as a Private in East Africa from 4 May 1915. He was commissioned into the Indian Army on 1 September 1916, serving initially with the 5th Infantry and then with the 25th Cavalry. He was attached to the 42nd Cavalry during operations in Afghanistan in 1919. He served with a Regular Army emergency commission in the Royal Army Service Corps during the Second War as Captain and Acting Major, was mentioned in despatches ‘in recognition of his gallant and distinguished services in Italy’ and subsequently received the M.B.E. For the campaign group awarded to the recipient’s son, see Lot 418.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.C. and Second Award Bar group of five awarded to Captain V. G. Gundrey, 14th (Swansea) Battalion, Welsh Regiment, who was awarded the M.C. for leading the successful raid on High Command Redoubt in November 1916, and the Second Award Bar for the assault across the River Selle in October 1918; he later becoming a successful film screenwriter, producer and director for Gaumont British Film Corporation, and was the screenwriter for the film of R. C. Sherriff's Great War play ‘Journeys End’ in 1930 Military Cross, G.V.R., with Second Award Bar, unnamed as issued; British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (Capt. V. G. Gundrey.); Defence and War Medals 1939-45, good very fine (5) £2,400-£2,800 --- M.C. London Gazette: 10 January 1917: ‘For conspicuous gallantry in action. He led a successful raid with great courage and determination. He captured twenty prisoners and accounted for many of the enemy.’ M.C. Second Award Bar London Gazette: 15 February 1919: ‘For marked gallantry and devotion to duty in the attack across the river Selle on 20 October 1918. He went forward under heavy fire to ascertain the position and finding two companies not quite on the final objective he led them forward and filled a gap in the line. He then went around the whole line and sited the fire trenches, his runner getting shot by his side. His coolness and capacity were of the utmost value and materially assisted in the success of the day.’ Victor Gareth Gundrey was first commissioned into 12th (Reserve) Battalion the Welsh Regiment on 5 November 1915, being posted to the 14th (Swansea) Battalion of the same regiment for service overseas, landing in France on 21 July 1916, and joining his battalion in the field on 24 July 1916. He was awarded the Military for leading the famous raid by the 14th Battalion the Welsh Regiment on ‘High Command Redoubt’ on the night of 17th November 1916. The History of the Welch Regiment 1914 – 1918 by Brigadier General T.O. Marden gives further details: ‘An unusually large number of men was employed - six subalterns and 145 other ranks of the 14th Welsh, together with one subaltern and 12 other ranks of the Royal Engineers. For six weeks the raiders lived together and trained together on a replica dug in the reserve area. Every night a small party under a subaltern went out into No Man’s Land to familiarise itself with the ground, and to locate the position of the flanking machine guns, to deal with those trench mortars were brought up specially. The Divisional Artillery cut the wire on a wide front, so as not to indicate the selected point of attack. Corps artillery was placed to keep down retaliatory bombardment on the night of the raid, while the guns of the neighbouring Divisions also assisted by demonstration. Within the 14th Welsh every detail was thought out minutely. Beyond the ordinary raid precautions such as blackened faces, removal of badges, dirtied buttons, use of knobkerries etc., luminous discs were carried to be planted at the points of exit from the enemy trenches, mats were taken in case the barbed wire was not sufficiently cut, dugout searchers were provided with electric torches and sandbags to collect documents, officers had horns instead of whistles to sound signals, policemen were stationed in No Man’s Land to bring back prisoners, our own front trenches were cleared to escape the retaliatory bombardment, and special duckboard trenches were laid for the three columns as the ordinary communication trenches were too waterlogged to admit of their being used by so many men. Twenty minutes before zero on the night of 17 November 1916, the raiders were all assembled quietly in No Man’s Land. Only those who have taken part in an attack of this sort can appreciate the tense minutes of waiting when a chance enemy patrol might upset the work of weeks of training. But on this occasion, all went well. After a terrific burst of artillery fire for three minutes in answer to which the enemy retaliatory bombardment fell harmlessly on our empty trenches, the two waves of raiders swept over the German positions, the first making for the support trenches, while the second dealt with the redoubts. To their amazement the latter was found to be a concrete fortress with steel doors to the dugouts, while the surrounding trenches had concrete faces - a great contrast to our wretched efforts. But the bombardment had played havoc with the redoubt, and when the Royal Engineers had also effected some explosions, this strong point was but a shadow of its former self. Lieutenant Gareth Gundrey, who commanded the raiders, and who received the Military Cross for his gallant leading, wrote in an account of the venture: “Like fish from shells the Germans were hauled forth on steel points from their hiding places. They were presented with the alternative of surrendering or being blown to pieces by hand grenades. Most of them chose the former, some of them suffered the latter. On the right flank of the attack there was a little hand-to-hand fighting, the result being that the German list of that dead was that night increased by a few names.” [In his personal notes on the raid on High Command Redoubt Gareth Gundrey makes mention of his orderly, Private John H. Jones, whose medals are included with this lot]. The party remained in the enemy trenches for 40 minutes, at that time almost a record for a raid. Twenty prisoners, a machine gun, and a hundred weight of plunder, containing much valuable intelligence, was the harvest reaped with the loss to us of two men killed by a trench mortar bomb as they were entering our trenches and eight men wounded. Congratulations poured in, including a special one from the Army Commander, General Sir Herbert Plumer.’ The Divisional Commander later issued a Special Order of the Day congratulating the battalion, and Sir Douglas Haig mentioned the raid in his next communique. The success of the Swansea Battalion in the raid on High Command Redoubt became the model example at the Second Army School of Instruction on how to train for and conduct trench raids in future. Gaudry was awarded a Second Award Bar to his Military Cross for his gallantry and devotion to duty in the attack across the river Selle on 20 October 1918. He was severely wounded in action at Morval Forest on 4 November 1918, necessitating the amputation of his left leg, and was evacuated to England in the Hospital Ship, St. Denis. He relinquished his commission on account of wounds on 22 October 1919, retaining the rank of Captain. After the war Gundrey became a successful film producer and director, and for most of his working life he was engaged by the Gaumont British Film Corporation. Amongst his more notable works was as screenwriter and director of ‘A Symphony in Two Flats’, in 1930, starring Ivor Novello; as screenwriter for the film of R. C. Sherriff's Great War play, ‘Journeys End’, in 1930; and as screenwriter and director of 'The Hound of the Baskervilles' in 1932. During the Second World War, despite the loss of his leg, Gundrey was granted an Emergency Commission in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Administrative and Special Duties Branch, as probationary Pilot Officer, on 3 July 1941, and was promoted War Substantive Flying Officer on 3 July 1942, and Flight Lieutenant on 1 January 1946. He remained in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve until he relinquished his commission in 1954, retaining the rank of Flight Lieutenant. He died in Woking, Surrey, on 22 July 1965. Note: M.I.D. unconfirmed. Sold with two original photographs, a copy newspaper obituary, extensive ...
A fine Great War ‘Klein Zillebeke, September 1917’ M.C., and ‘Ginchy, Somme, September 1916’ D.C.M. group of five awarded to Major F. J. Snook, North Staffordshire Regiment, late Grenadier Guards Military Cross, G.V.R.; Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (9797 C.S. Mjr: F. Snook. 2/G. Gds:); 1914 Star (9797 C.Q.M. Sjt. F. Snook. 2/G. Gds.); British War and Victory Medals (Major F. Snook.) medals unmounted, good very fine (5) £3,000-£4,000 --- M.C. London Gazette 19 November 1917; citation published 22 March 1918: ‘2nd Lt. (A./Capt.) Frederick James Snook, N. Staffs. R. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. When battalion headquarters had been destroyed by shell fire and nearly all the personnel became casualties, by his energy and example he enabled a new headquarters to be formed and communication with the brigade rapidly re-established. His fearlessness and and conduct in a critical situation were most exemplary.’ Annotated gazette states: ‘East of Klein Zillebeke, 20 September 1917.’ D.C.M. London Gazette 14 November 1916: ‘For conspicuous gallantry in action. When all the officers near him became casualties Coy. Serjt.-Maj. Snook, although wounded himself, collected what men he could and pushed forward to the most advanced firing line, assisting his company commander to collect and reorganise men of various battalions under most trying conditions and heavy fire.’ Annotated gazette states: ‘Near Ginchy, 15 September 1916.’ Frederick James Snook was born at Pontypool, Monmouthshire, and was a steelworker when he enlisted into the Grenadier Guards at Pontypool on 19 August 1901, aged 18. He accompanied the Expeditionary Force to France on 12 August 1914, as Company Quarter-master Sergeant with the 2nd Battalion, Grenadier Guards. He was slightly wounded near Bethune on 2 January 1915, was again slightly wounded in the Field on 16 May 1915, and was slightly wounded for a third time on the occasion of winning his D.C.M. on 15 September 1916. He was appointed to a permanent commission as 2nd Lieutenant on 1 October 1916, and was posted to the 8th Battalion, North Staffordshire Regiment. He was promoted Lieutenant on 31 March 1918; Captain, 25 October 1918; and was Acting Major from 15 June 1918. Sold with copied research together with original documents including 1st Class Certificate of Education, Guards Division 1916 certificate for good work performed on the Field of Battle, Officer’s Record of Services (Army Book 439), and commission documents as W.O. 2 in the Grenadier Guards and as 2nd Lieutenant in the North Staffordshire Regiment.
Family Group: A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.C. group of three awarded to Lieutenant J. Fleming, Royal Scots, who was killed in action at Arras on 21 March 1917 Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued; British War and Victory Medals (Lieut. J. Fleming.); Memorial Scroll ‘Lieut. James Fleming, M.C., Royal Scots.’; together with a gold (15ct) Regimental Prize Medal, engraved ‘4th Battalion the Royal Scots, Queen’s Edinburgh Rifles, Colonel’s Medal 1913 Won by Lce. Corpl. J. Fleming.’, extremely fine Four: Lieutenant G. Fleming, Royal Scots Fusiliers, who died of wounds on the Western Front on 18 July 1916 1914-15 Star (2. Lieut. G. Fleming. R. Sc. Fus.); British War and Victory Medals (Lieut. G. Fleming.); Territorial Efficiency Medal, G.V.R. (217 Sgt. G. Fleming. RS.) the last partially officially corrected; Memorial Scroll ‘Lt. George Fleming, T. attd. 1. R. Scots Fus.’; together with a gold (9ct) Regimental Prize Medal, engraved ‘Q[ueen’s]. E[dinburgh]. R[ifles]., R[oyal]. S[cots]. Championship Presented by Major T. D. Rhind 1913. Won by Sergt. G. Fleming 4th. Battn.’, extremely fine (9) £1,400-£1,800 --- M.C. London Gazette 27 July 1916: ‘For conspicuous gallantry in twice patrolling through a difficult wood, quite unknown to him and occupied by the enemy, who knew it thoroughly.’ James Fleming was born in Edinburgh in 1892 and was educated at George Watson’s College, Edinburgh. He joined the 4th Battalion, Royal Scots (Territorial Force), and was mobilised as a Lance-Sergeant in 1914. He was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the 11th Battalion in March 1915, and served with the Battalion during Great War on the Western Front from January 1916, serving throughout the Battle of the Somme, and being awarded the Military Cross. He was killed in action at Arras on 21 March 1917, and is buried at Faubourg d’Amiens Cemetery, France. George Fleming was born in 1884, the brother of the above, and was educated at George Watson’s College, Edinburgh. He joined the Queen’s Edinburgh Rifles Volunteer Battalion (later the 4th Battalion, Royal Scots (Territorial Force)), and was mobilised as a Colour Sergeant of ‘F’ Company. He was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the 1st Battalion, Royal Scots Fusiliers, and served with them during the Great War on the Western Front from July 1915. Promoted Lieutenant in 1916, he was mortally wounded on 14 July 1916, on which date the Battalion was involved in an attack on Bazentin-le-Grand. He died of his wounds four days later, and is buried in Abbeville Cemetery, France. Sold with five miniature medals, comprising Military Cross, G.V.R. (2); 1914 Star; British War Medal 1914-20; and Victory Medal 1914-19; three bronze shooting medals, all unnamed; a photographic image of the two brothers; a small book of Psalms; and copied research.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.C. group of four awarded to Captain A. W. Heaton, 7th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued; 1914-15 Star (2. Lieut. A. W. Heaton. North’n R.); British War and Victory Medals (Capt. A. W. Heaton.) on original mounting bar but some now detached, good very fine (4) £800-£1,000 --- M.C. London Gazette 16 September 1918: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during an enemy attack. He was invaluable in helping to rally men and in the selection of new firing positions. He frequently went forward under heavy fire to bring back information to battalion commanders. Throughout he set a splendid example of coolness and cheerfulness under difficult conditions.’ Albert William Heaton served in France with the 7th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment, from 1 September 1915. He retired on 1 September 1921, and retained the rank of Captain. Sold with copied Medal Index Card which gives his address in ‘Clifton Road, Sutton Coalfields.’
A scarce Great War M.C. group of five awarded to Lieutenant Colonel R. D. Gard’ner, Seaforth Highlanders and Nigeria Regiment, who was wounded and taken prisoner of war at Ngwembe, German East Africa, 24-25 January 1917. His award being for gallantry whilst a prisoner of war, escaping or attempting to escape, Gard’ner returned to command the 4th Battalion, Gordon Highlanders in France, October - November 1918 Military Cross, G.V.R., reverse engraved ‘Capt. (Temp. Major) R. D. Gard’ner Seaforth Highlanders and Nigeria Regt. W.A.F.F.’; 1914-15 Star (Capt: R. D. Gard’ner Sea: Highrs); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (Lt. Col. R. D. Gard’ner.); Special Constabulary Long Service Medal, G.V.R., 2nd issue (Richard D. Gard’ner) mounted as originally worn, ribands a little frayed, generally very fine or better (5) £1,800-£2,200 --- M.C. London Gazette 30 January 1920 [Gallantry whilst a prisoner of war, escaping or attempting to escape]. M.I.D. London Gazette 5 June 1919 (East Africa) and 8 July 1919. Richard Dyce Gard’ner was born in August 1883, and was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the Seaforth Highlanders in January 1902. He was attached to the West African Frontier Force, February 1908 - December 1911, and advanced to Captain in March 1913. Gard’ner was posted to the 1st Battalion, Seaforth Highlanders at Agra, India, in April 1914. He was attached to the Indian Volunteers with the outbreak of the Great War, and served as Adjutant, April - July 1915. Action at Ngwembe, 24-25 January 1917 Gard’ner was posted as a Staff Captain to the W.A.F.F., and served attached to the Nigeria Regiment, August 1915 - June 1918, including as part of the Cameroons Expeditionary Force, 1915-1916. Gard’ner advanced to Major, 18 January 1917, and was prominent in the East Africa Campaign. On 24 January 1917 a column comprising of men from the 3rd Battalion, Nigerian Regiment and one company of the 4th Battalion under the command of Lieutenant Colonel J. Archer left a town called Kibongo, Tanzania, and headed south towards the German positions at Ngwembe: ‘About seven miles from Kibonji the enemy was encountered in some strength. This was about a mile from the water holes, which were the objective of the force. Major Gardner [sic], commanding the advanced guard, was ordered to turn the German right with two companies. About 1100 hours Captain Milne-Home’s company was leading; having deployed and reached within 50 yards of the water holes, it was driven back about 200 yards on to the supporting company. A vigourous fight continued for about an hour, during which two machine guns were captured and the bodies of some 30 Askaris were counted lying between them. The enemy then put in a heavy counter-attack on Gardner’s force, during which Captains Cooke and Dudley were killed, as were Lieutenants Ewen and Harrison. Gardner himself was wounded and three of his machine guns were captured. The two companies became disorganized and retired through the bush, not emerging until some distance behind Archer’s main body. In the meantime Archer had wired for reinforcements. 15 Company 4 Battalion was despatched at 1345 hours, not arriving till 1615 hours. By this time Archer had begun to retire and Captain Maxwell, commanding this company, was ordered to withdraw and dig in at a small stream three miles farther back. Some 10 minutes later Maxwell met Sargent with 4 Battalion headquarters, 13 Company, and the Battalion baggage, coming to reinforce Archer’s Battalion from Kibonji. At this time 15 Company’s carriers were in front of the Company. It is supposed they mistook the reinforcements for Askaris, causing them to panic and bolt; they were not seen again that day. About 1630 hours Sargent met Archer; the latter is reported to have agreed to dig in with 3 Battalion at the stream aforementioned, but this he did not do, continuing his retreat to Kibonji. On this understanding Sargent ordered 15 Company to rejoin 4 Battalion; he then put Major Roberts in command of half 13 and 15 Companies with instructions to cover the retirement of 3 Battalion. By 1700 hours these six sections were in position and the whole of Archer’s force, except his rearguard of No. 10 Company, had passed through them. At this juncture the enemy counter-attacked, supported by concentrated rifle and machine-gun fire; thereupon the carriers of both battalions stampeded. To add to the confusion and the carrier’s demoralisation a few snipers had worked round both flanks, causing further casualties among them. No. 10 Company now joined Robert’s detachment. A firing line was built up on each side of the road and continued to hold the position for half an hour when he was forced to retire, as his right flank was enveloped. Captain Barclay was killed at this moment; he had only taken command of 13 Company a few hours earlier. Colour Sergeant Lamb of this company had been killed directly the 1700 hours counter-attack began; this B.N.C.O. had greatly distinguished himself at Gallipoli, where he won the D.C.M. and Bar..... On Barclay’s death Lieutenant Hilton took command of the two sections of 13 Company, whose behaviour in carrying out the difficult retirement was beyond praise, as the denseness of the bush and the heavy fire to which they were subjected made it most difficult to see their enemy. This retirement, had, however, left 10 Company ‘in the air’, so Sargent in person advanced with 15 and half 16 Companies to their support. It was now 1815 hours and the enemy withdrew, Sargent now learnt that Archer had withdrawn to Kibonji. He thereupon retired to camp himself, leaving 15 and half 16 Companies to hold an outpost position that night, collect what wounded they could and as much baggage as possible, under Roberts. At 2030 hours Sargent arrived at Kibonji; at 0015 hours the 25th January, Badham with a company from each 1 and 4 Battalions left to recover all loads. His column had a difficult march of seven miles on a pitch-dark night through almost trackless bush. At 0230 hours a tropical deluge made the foothold so greasy that one slipped back half the distance as each step was taken. It was in a great measure due to Company Sergeant Major Morakinyo Ibadan, acting Regimental Sergeant Major 4 Battalion, that the way was found to Robert’s position. For his services he was awarded the D.C.M. It was estimated that the enemy’s force (commanded by Otto with 3, 23 and 24 Ks and 14 Res. K) in this engagement numbered some 600 rifles and many machine-guns. Their casualties were reported as 12 killed, 14 wounded and 20 missing. British casualties, besides those mentioned, included Lieutenants Pomeroy and Thompson and Sergeants Speak, Rowe and Woolley captured and wounded. Also Lieutenant Jeffries captured with Gardner while helping to the dress the latter’s wound. Forty three other ranks were wounded and eight captured.’ (History of the Royal West African Frontier Force refers) Gard’ner advanced to Acting Lieutenant Colonel, and served for the last month of the war in command of the 4th Battalion, Gordon Highlanders in the French theatre of war. Colonel retired in April 1921, and the following obituary appeared in Cabar Feidh: ‘Lieutenant Colonel R. D. Gard’ner, formerly of the Seaforth Highlanders, who was recently called from the Reserve of Officers for service with the Royal Army Ordnance Corps, collapsed and died while watching a dress rehearsal of the Aldershot Tattoo, on Thursday night, June 1, 1939... To the regret of his wide circle of friends, the death occurred with tragic suddenness... Colonel Gard’...
A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.C. group of four awarded to Captain C. W. Rowland, London Regiment, who was killed in action on 23 August 1918 Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued; 1914-15 Star (2981 L. Cpl. C. W. Rowland. 2-Lond. R.); British War and Victory Medals (Capt. C. W. Rowland.) about extremely fine (4) £800-£1,000 --- M.C. London Gazette 4 February 1918; citation published 5 July 1918: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During an attack he led his platoon with marked success to the final objective. On seeing that the enemy were attempting to leave their trenches and crawl back, he rendered great assistance in engaging them with rifle fire, inflicting heavy casualties on them. Throughout the attack he displayed great initiative, and assisted greatly in making the attack a success.’ Annotated Gazette states: ‘Nr. Moeuvres, 25.11.17’. Cyril William Rowland attested for the 2nd Battalion, London Regiment, and served with the during the Great War in Egypt from 30 August 1915. He was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the 1st/4th Battalion, London Regiment, and was awarded the Military Cross for his gallantry near Mouuvres on 25 November 1917. Advanced Captain, he was killed in action at Boisleux-au-Mont on 23 August 1918, and is buried in Boyelles Communal Cemetery Extension, France. Sold with copied research, including the relevant Battalion War Diaries.
A magnificent Great War ‘Foret de Mormal’ November 1918 D.C.M., and ‘Battles of the Somme’ M.M. and Second Award Bar group of five awarded to Sergeant W. Green, Royal Fusiliers Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (8021 Sjt. W. Green. M.M. 13/R. Fus.); Military Medal, G.V.R., with Second Award Bar (8021 Pte. W. Green. 11/R. Fus:); 1914-15 Star (8021 Pte. W. Green. R. Fus:); British War and Victory Medals (GS-8021 Sjt. W. Green. R. Fus,.) mounted for display, the first two with light edge bruising, otherwise good very fine (5) £3,000-£4,000 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 14 February 1919; citation published 10 January 1920: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and initiative in the Foret de Mormal on 4th November, 1918. He led his platoon in the attack through the wood, driving out several enemy parties, and established himself on the final objective about two hours after darkness had fallen. He held on to this line until morning, when other troops were able to come up on his flanks.’ M.M. London Gazette 11 November 1916. M.M. Second Award Bar London Gazette 21 December 1916. William Green was a native of Bury, Lancashire, and served in France with the 11th Battalion Royal Fusiliers, from 26 July 1915. The 11th (Service) Battalion was formed at Hounslow in September 1914 and in France was attached to 54th Brigade in the 18th (Eastern) Division.The battalion was engaged in the following actions on the Somme: Albert, 1-13 July 1916, including the capture of Montauban, Mametz, Fricourt, Contalmaison and La Boiselle; Battle of Bazentin, 14-17 July 1916, including capture of Longueval, Trones Wood, and Ovillers; Battle of Delville Wood, 15 July to 3 September 1916; Battles of Thiepval 26-28 September 1916, Ancre Heights 1-11 October 1916, including capture of Schwaben Redoubt, Stuff Redoubt and Regina Trench; Battle of the Ancre 13-18 November 1916, including capture of Beaumont Hamel. Green served with the 11th Battalion until 24 February 1917, and afterwards, briefly with the 1st Battalion, 8-25 June 1917, then withb the 20th Battalion until 29 January 1918, when he joined the 13th Battalion for the remainder of the war. His D.C.M.-winning exploits were reported in the Bury Times of 1 February 1919, adding some further detail to the published citation: ‘Another honour has been conferred upon Sergt. William Green, M.M., of the 13th Royal Fusiliers, son of Mr William Green of Devon-street, Bury, he having been awarded the D.C.M. for gallant conduct just prior to the Armistice. In their last attack, which he says was the biggest that ever took place, they advanced twelve miles in one day. His battalion was the last to go in, and they had to go through a big forest called the Forest de Mormal. Very early in the morning his Officer was gassed and Sergt. Green carried on until they got held up by German machine guns. He worked on with his platoon but before they reached their objective it was dark. After fighting on he found the Germans had got around him but he held on.During the night the Germans fell back and he got the battalion to their objective. Sergt. Green enlisted when 19 years of age, in the month following the outbreak of war. At the end of 1916 he was awarded the Military Medal, and at the end of 1917 (sic) he he was awarded the clasp in further recognition of bravery. Prior to enlisting he was employed at Messrs. Livesey’s works, Hollins, and he was formerly in St Chad’s School Boys’ Brigade.’ Sold with copied gazette notices, D.C.M. and Medal Index Cards, and War Diary extracts from 1916 and 1918, the latter specifically mentioning Sergeant Green in the Foret de Mormal action.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ D.C.M. and M.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant H. Maltby, 117 Company, Machine Gun Corps, late Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Regiment Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (72057 Sjt: H. Maltby. M.M. 39/M.G.C.); Military Medal, G.V.R. (72057 Sjt: H. Maltby. 117/Coy M.G.C.); British War and Victory Medals (25831 Sjt. H. Maltby. Notts. & Derby. R.) mounted as worn, light contact marks, otherwise good very fine (4) £1,800-£2,200 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 3 September 1918: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During ten days’ hard fighting he several times covered the retirement of our infantry, inflicting such heavy casualties on the enemy that their advance was checked, and our men were given valuable time to reorganise a fresh line of defence. When the flank of the Division had become exposed, Sjt. Maltby brought up two guns in front of the line, under heavy machine-gun and rifle fire, and though he had only three other men to keep them in action, he directed such and accurate and crushing fire on the enemy that the threatened flank was saved and our infantry were able to extricate themselves from a dangerous position. Throughout the whole of the operations his unflagging energy, his coolness and conspicuous courage, inspired all those under him with confidence and steadfast determination.’ Annotated gazette states: ‘21-30 March 1918’. M.M. London Gazette 14 January 1918. Henry Maltby hailed from Breaston, Derbyshire, and served originally with the Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Regiment before transferring to the 117th Company, Machine Gun Corps. In March 1918 the 116th, 117th, 118th and 228th Companies were amalgamated into the 39th Battalion M.G.C. as “A”, “B”, “C” and “D” Companies respectively. Henry’s brother, Enoch Edward, served with the King’s Royal Rifle Corps and died of wounds on 26 September 1915. Sold with several original photographs of E. E. Maltby’s grave markers, two news cuttings announcing award of D.C.M. with citation, Christmas 1918 M.G.C. greetings card, and post card photograph of Breaston from his mother, together with copied research including gazette and War Diary extracts.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ October 1918 D.C.M. group of five awarded to Private C. H. Clark, 36th Battalion, Northumberland Fusiliers, late Hertfordshire Regiment Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (316318 Pte. C. H. Clark. 36/North’d Fus:) official correction to rank; 1914 Star, with clasp (1599 Pte. C. M. Clark. 1./1 Herts: R.) note second initial but as per roll; British War and Victory Medals (1599 Pte. C. H. Clark. Herts. R.); Imperial Service Medal, G.V.R., Circular issue, 1st ‘coinage head’ issue (Henry Clark) this in case of issue, the first four mounted as worn, very fine, the last extremely fine (5) £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 12 March 1919; citation published 2 December 1919: ‘On the morning of the 14th October, 1918, to the south-west of Wez Macquart, when strong patrols were sent forward to see if the enemy held the ridge, his platoon surprised the enemy, and were unable to withdraw when they had gained their information. He was in charge of a section of Lewis gunners, and in addition to his leadership and resource, his personal gallantry was most marked. Later, when his team had to use their rifles, he took charge, and entirely on his own worked the Lewis gun always in a position to do most damage. After being wounded he still carried on.’ I.S.M. London Gazette 18 May 1936: ‘Clark, Henry, Fitter, H.M. Dockyard, Chatham.’ Sold with copied research including War Diary extracts, gazette notices and Medal Index Cards.
A Great War ‘Revelon Ridge’ September 1918 D.C.M. group of four awarded to Private G. H. Elston, 2nd Battalion, Lincolnshire Regiment Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (8523 Pte. G. H. Elston. 2/Linc: R.); 1914 Star, with copy slide clasp (8523 Pte. G. H. Elston. 2/Linc: R.); British War and Victory Medals (8523 Pte. G. H. Elston. Linc. R.) mounted for display, contact marks and polished, therefore good fine and better (4) £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 5 December 1918: ‘While his company was holding a position he volunteered for patrol duty, during the course of which a party of the enemy was encountered. He at once rushed at them and captured ten single-handed. He invariably displayed great courage and devotion to duty.’ Annotated gazette states: ‘Revelon Ridge, 8 September 1918.’ George Henry Elston was a native of Southampton and served in France and Flanders with the 2nd Battalion, Lincolnshire Regiment, from 5 November 1914. Sold with copied gazette notices, extracts from War Diaries and regimental history, together with D.C.M. and Medal Index Cards.
A Great War ‘Ypres 1915’ D.C.M. group of seven awarded to Acting Regimental Sergeant-Major C. Hopkins, Gloucestershire Regiment Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (5794 C.S. Mjr: C. Hopkins. 2/Glouc: Regt.); Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 3 clasps, Cape Colony, Orange Free State, Transvaal (5794 Cpl. C. Hopkins, Gloucester Regt.) later replacement issue; King’s South Africa 1901-02, 2 clasps, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 (5794 L. Cpl. C. Hopkins. 2/Gloucester Regt.) later replacement issue; 1914-15 Star (5794 C.S. Mjr. C. Hopkins. Glouc: R.); British War and Victory Medals (5794 W.O. Cl. 1. C. Hopkins. Glouc. R.); Army L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue (5794 C.S. Mjr. C. Hopkins. Glouc: R.) mounted on card for display, light contact marks, otherwise very fine and better (7) £900-£1,200 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 30 June 1915: ‘For conspicuous gallantry displayed in undertaking in daylight a reconnaissance in front of the enemy’s trenches, and advancing to within 10 yards of the German lines.’ Charles Hopkins was born at Cirencester and enlisted into the Gloucestershire Regiment at Athlone on 27 February 1900. He served overseas in South Africa from 17 October 1900 to 11 November 1902; in India from 12 November 1902 to 24 November 1910; at Malta from 22 March 1912 to 11 September 1913; in China from 12 September 1913 to 7 November 1914; and in France from 19 December 1914 to 2 January 1917, when he was invalided home with malaria. He was finally discharged from the 5th Battalion (T.A.) on 26 February 1921, and was afterwards employed at Oakley Hall School, Cirencester from 1928. He died at Cirencester on 2 April 1952, aged 70. Sold with copied research including gazette notice and discharge documents.
A Great War ‘Somme 1916’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Private H. W. Cunningham, 6th Battalion, Dorsetshire Regiment, who, when his Company Commander was wounded and despite being himself wounded in three places, insisted on dressing his wounds under fire and brought him back having spent three perilous hours in No Man’s Land Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (11264 Pte. H. W. Cunningham. 6/Dorset: R.); 1914-15 Star (11264 Pte. H. W. Cunningham. Dorset: R); British War and Victory Medals (11264 Pte. H. W. Cunningham. Dorset R.) court mounted, some pitting from star, otherwise nearly very fine (4) £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 1 January 1917; citation published 12 February 1917: ‘For conspicuous gallantry in action. Although wounded three times he continued to carry on his work as runner. Later, he carried his Company Commander, who was wounded, over a distance of 400 yards under heavy fire.’ The Regimental History records: ‘Major T. H. F. Johnson was hit; but Pte. Cunningham, his servant, himself wounded in three places, insisted on dressing his wounds under fire, and brought him back after over three hours’ perilous loyalty.’ Major Johnson was awarded the D.S.O. Henry W. Cunningham proceeded to France with the 6th Battalion, Dorsetshire Regiment, on 13 July 1915. He was transferred to Class Z Reserve on 24 February 1919. Sold with copied gazette notices, extracts from the Regimental History and Medal Index Card.
A Great War D.C.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant E. Shaw, 1/5th Battalion Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Regiment Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (200239 Sjt. E. Shaw. 1/5 Notts: & Derby: R.); 1914-15 Star (1888 Pte. E. Shaw. Notts: & Derby: R.); British War and Victory Medals (1888 Sjt. E. Shaw Notts. & Derby. R.) very fine (4) £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 12 March 1919; citation published 2 December 1919: ‘At Regnicourt, on 17th October, 1918, he showed marked gallantry and powers of leadership while in command of his platoon. He carried his men forward under heavy machine-gun fire until held up by wire, when he at once organised rifle and Lewis-gun fire, and with a few men worked to a flank, where he found a gap. Rushing forward, he charged the enemy post, capturing two machine guns and several prisoners. He did splendid work.’ Ernest Shaw, 1/5th Battalion Sherwood Foresters, entered the France and Flanders theatre of war on 1 March 1915. Serving with the battalion throughout the war, he was awarded the D.C.M. for his great bravery in action in October 1918. The Regimental Colours had been deposited at All Saints Church, Derby, on 6 August 1914, prior to their departure to various training locations in the U.K. On King George’s visit to Landrecies in December 1918, the Colours were returned to the Battalion on 2 December, Sergeant Shaw being one of the five members of the Colour Party. Shaw was disembodied on 13 March 1919. Sold with with copied research.
A Great War ‘Hohenzollern Redoudt, battle of Loos’ September 1915 D.C.M. group of four awarded to Private A. C. Baynes, 3rd Battalion, Middlesex Regiment Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (7483 Pte. A. C. Baynes. 3/Middx: Regt.); 1914-15 Star (G-7483. Pte. A. C. Baynes, Middx. R.); British War and Victory Medals (G-7483 Pte. A. C. Baynes Midd’x R.) medals unmounted, light contact marks, otherwise good very fine (4) £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 16 November 1915: ‘For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty on the 28th and 29th September, 1915, near Vermelles. Private Baynes, although almost overpowered by the superior number of bombs thrown by the enemy, with great bravery and coolness managed to keep them at bay, and continued throwing bombs. By his personal gallantry and example he kept together a party of bombers until the trench was saved.’ After moving from Ypres to Loos, 85th Brigade received orders to relieve 26th and 27th Brigades (9th Division). Early on 28th September, 3/Middlesex moved into position opposite Hohenzollern Redoubt, ready to support the 2/Buffs who were to attack towards the Dump. The attack commenced at 9.30am following the artillery bombardment with the Buffs moving over the open, while 3/Middlesex bombed their way through the Left Face trench. Running short of bombs the battalion was the subject of a German bombing attack and suffered heavy casualties from that and enfilading machine gun fire. On their right the Buffs were forced to give way and the Middlesex slowly withdrew down South Face trench. Orders were received to hold Big Willie trench and the four companies of the Middlesex took up positions there, while the R. Fusiliers held the South Face. The Germans launched heavy bombing attacks but were beaten back by the Middlesex bombers. Again on 29th September, the German bombers attempted to capture South Face trench but were unsuccessful. 2/Buffs holding Dump trench on the right of the Middlesex were relieved by 1/Y&L and now took up position between the left of the Middlesex and the right of the R. Fusiliers. By 11am the Middlesex were again being heavily pressed by the Germans and were short of bombs and it was decided to withdraw further. The struggle continued all day and by 5pm the troops in South Face trench were being steadily forced back. West Face trench was captured by the enemy and the Middlesex withdrew to the old first line trench, where they were relieved during the night of 30th September/1st October. Arthur Charles Baynes served with the 3rd Battalion, Middlesex Regiment, in France from 2 May 1915. Sold with copied research including Battalion War Diary extracts and Medal Index Card.
A Great War D.C.M. pair awarded to Lance-Corporal R. Millar, Gordon Highlanders Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (10088 L.Cpl. R. Millar. 2/Gord. Hdrs.); 1914 Star (10088 Pte. R. Millar. 1/Gord: Highrs.) very fine (2) £500-£700 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 25 November 1916: ‘For conspicuous gallantry in action. When one of three men who went forward with an officer to make a reconnaissance he showed great courage and skill under very heavy fire. Later, although wounded three times, he refused to leave his officer until the reconnaissance was completed.’ Ralph B. Millar served in France and Flanders from 14 September 1914. He was later promoted Sergeant.
A Great War 1918 ‘Western Front’ D.C.M. pair awarded to Corporal R. G. Norton, Tank Corps Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (97310 Pte. -L.Cpl.- R. G. Norton. 14/Tank Corps.); Victory Medal 1914-19 (97310 Cpl. R. G. Norton. Tank Corps.) good very fine (2) £800-£1,000 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 5 December 1918: ‘For conspicuous gallantry during an attack at Quent-Drocourt Line on 2 September 1918. He drove his Tank with skill and determination, inflicting numerous casualties on the enemy until it was knocked out by a direct hit. Though suffering from severe shock he then drove a fresh Tank to the second objective, and, after having rallied, drove for the third time into actin to the assistance of the infantry. In attacking a factory which had held up the infantry, his Tank was knocked out, and he then assisted his Tank commander to establish a strong point, and by their fire forced a large body of enemy machine gunners to abandon the building. Throughout the day this non-commissioned officer showed marked courage, cheerfulness, and devotion to duty.’ Reginald Guy Norton attested for the Tank Corps at Abergavenny and was mobilised on 4 May 1917. He was posted from the Depot to the 14th Battalion on 3 October 1917, and served with them during the Great War on the Western Front. Promoted Corporal on 19 September 1918, he was appointed Acting Sergeant on 17 April 1919, and was discharged on 31 March 1920. Sold with copied record of service and other research.
A Great War D.C.M. group of six awarded to Warrant Officer Class 1 R. Whitfield, 1st Canadian Infantry Battalion, late Dorsetshire Regiment, who, having been wounded in June 1915, was decorated in the following year for rescuing two buried machine-gunners Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (6641 C.S. Mjr. R. Whitfield, 1/Can. I.B.); India General Service 1895-1902, 2 clasps, Punjab Frontier 1897-98, Tirah 1897-98 (4300 Pte. R. Whitfield, 1st Bn. Dorset. Regt.); 1914-15 Star (6641 Sgt. R. Whitfield, 1/Can. Inf.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (6641 W.O. Cl. 1 R. Whitfield, 1-Can. Inf.); Army L.S. & G.C., E.VII.R. (4300 L. Sjt. R. Whitfield, Dorset. Regt.) the second with edge bruise, and the second and sixth with contact marks, nearly very fine and better (6) £1,400-£1,800 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 15 April 1916: ‘For conspicuous gallantry. A post in rear of the line having been severely shelled, he made his way up under heavy fire. When the post was evacuated he returned to rescue two machine-gunners who had been buried, and whose cries for help he had heard. He showed throughout absolute disregard for personal safety.’ Robert Whitfield, who was born at Whitburn, Scotland, in February 1874, served for 19 years in the Dorsetshire Regiment and was present in the Tirah and Punjab Frontier operations of 1897-98. Having then been awarded the L.S. & G.C. Medal and discharged, he made his way to Canada and enlisted in the Canadian Expeditionary Force at Valcartier in September 1914. Embarked for France in early 1915, where he joined the 1st Battalion, Canadian Infantry, he was wounded in the right leg on 15 June of the same year, and was evacuated to the American War Hospital at Paignton, Devon, but returned to his unit in the Field in the following month and was advanced to Company Sergeant-Major. Awarded the D.C.M. for the above cited deeds early in 1916, together with a mention in despatches (London Gazette 15 June 1916 refers), he was advanced to Regimental Sergeant-Major and, time in hospital with influenza aside, remained on active service until returning to Canada in October 1917. Latterly employed by Clearing Services Command, Whitfield was discharged in December 1919, aged 51 years. Sold with copied record of service.
A Great War 1915 ‘Patrol Duty’ D.S.M group of six awarded to Chief Petty Officer H. C. Endacott, Royal Navy, who served in H.M.S. Scout during the military operations in connection with the re-conquest of the Sudan Distinguished Service Medal, G.V.R. (121488 H. C. Endacotte [sic], C.P.O. H.M.S. Ebro.); Khedive’s Sudan 1896-1908, no clasp (H. C. Endacott. P.O. 1.Cl. H.M.S. Scout. 1896.) edge prepared prior to naming and correctly impressed in the usual style associated with this ship; 1914-15 Star (121488, H. C. Endacott. C.P.O., R.N.); British War and Victory Medals (121488 H. C. Endacott. C.P.O. R.N.); Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue (121488. H. C. Endacott, C.P.O. H.M.S. Pembroke.) mounted as worn in this order, nearly very fine or better and a rare group (6) £1,600-£2,000 --- D.S.M. London Gazette 31 March 1916: ‘In recognition of their services in the Patrol Cruisers, under the command of Rear-Admiral Sir Dudley R. S. de Chair, K.C.B., M.V.O., during the period ending 31st December 1915.’ Henry Charles Endacott was born in Wenhaston, Suffolk, on 27 May 1867, and was educated at the Greenwich Hospital School, joining the Royal Navy as a Boy 2nd Class on 30 November 1882. Advanced Petty Officer 1st Class on 24 May 1895, he joined H.M.S. Scout on 1 October 1895, and for his services off the Sudan coast between 30 March and 23 September 1896 he was awarded the Khedive’s Sudan Medal. Advanced to Chief Petty Officer on 9 September 1903, he was shore pensioned on 6 December 1905, and joined the Royal Fleet Reserve at Chatham on 24 November 1906. Recalled for service following the outbreak of the Great War, Endacott served initially at H.M.S. Pembroke, and was awarded his L.S. & G.C. medal whilst there in early 1915. He joined the Armed Merchant Cruiser H.M.S. Ebro on 3 April 1915 and served in her until after the cessation of hostilities, finally being shore pensioned on 9 February 1919. For his services in patrol duty in 1915 he was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal. Amongst Royal Naval personnel the Khedive’s Sudan Medal was only awarded to the crews of H.M. Ships Scout (149) and Melita (139). Those medals awarded to the crew of Scout were named up on the initiative of the ship’s Captain, whilst those medals awarded to the crew of Melita were issued unnamed. Neither crew were entitled to the Queen’s Sudan Medal.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. group of three awarded to Private R. C. Abbott, 6th Battalion, Royal Scots Military Medal, G.V.R. (301413 Pte. R. C. Abbott. 6/R. Scots); British War and Victory Medals (301413 Pte. R. C. Abbott. R. Scots.) toned, good very fine (3) £240-£280 --- M.M. London Gazette 20 August 1919.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. group of four awarded to Corporal T. L. Blundell, Royal Fusiliers Military Medal, G.V.R. (685 Cpl. T. Blundell. 22/R. Fus:); 1914-15 Star (685 L. Cpl. T. L. Blundell. R. Fus.); British War and Victory Medals (K-685 Pte. T. L. Blundell. R. Fus.) surname officially corrected on BWM, good very fine (4) £300-£400 --- M.M. London Gazette 26 April 1917. Tom Ludford Blundell attested for the Royal Fusiliers and served with the 22nd Battalion during the Great War on the Western Front from 16 November 1915. Awarded the Military Medal, he subsequently transferred to the 5th Battalion, and was discharged following the cessation of hostilities.
A Great War 1916 ‘Western Front’ M.M. group of five awarded to Staff Sergeant F. V. Scott, Machine Gun Squadron, Canadian Cavalry Brigade, later Captain, Royal Canadian Dragoons Military Medal, G.V.R. (51 S. Sjt: F. V. Scott. Can: Cav: Bde: M.G. Sq:); 1914-15 Star (51 S. Sjt F. V. Scott. R. Can: Dns:); British War and Victory Medals (A. Capt. F. V. Scott.); Defence Medal, generally nearly very fine (5) £500-£600 --- M.M. London Gazette 3 June 1916. Fred Veasey Scott was born in Northampton, England in January 1882. He was a Lawyer by profession, and attested for the Royal Canadian Dragoons at Toronto, Ontario in January 1906. Scott was a pre-war member of the Royal Canadian Dragoons Instructional Staff. He initially served during the Great War as a Sergeant with the Royal Canadian Dragoons, prior to transferring as a Staff Sergeant to the Machine Gun Squadron, Canadian Cavalry Brigade. He was commissioned in to the RCD in November 1916. Sold with copied research, and a photographic image of recipient in uniform as part of the Sergeants’ Mess, Royal School of Cavalry, St. Johns, P.Q., 1912.
A Great War ‘Ypres’ M.M. group of four awarded to Second Lieutenant R. H. Morton, No. 66 (Training) Squadron, Royal Air Force, formerly Canadian Engineers, who was killed in a flying accident 3 July 1918 Military Medal, G.V.R. (106408 Cpl. R. H. Morton. 3/D. Sig: Co: Can: Eng:); 1914-15 Star (106408 S. Cpl. R. H. Morton. 1/Can: Mtd: Rif:); British War and Victory Medals (2. Lieut. R. H. Morton. R.A.F.) nearly extremely fine (4) £400-£500 --- M.M. London Gazette 23 August 1916. The original recommendation states: ‘For conspicuous bravery on 2nd June 1916, and throughout recent operations in the Ypres Salient. He personally mended telephone lines during severe shell fire and gave invaluable assistance in maintaining communications by the gallant example he set the men in his charge. He also went out to assist a comrade who had been mortally wounded on the 3rd June.’ Ruben Harold Morton was born Crewkerne, Somerset in June 1886. He was a Telegrapher by trade, and enlisted into the Canadian Expeditionary Force, 30 December 1914. Morton initially served as in the 1st Canadian Mounted Rifles, before transferring to the Canadian Engineers. In April 1918 he was commissioned into the R.A.F. as an Observer, with the rank of 2nd Lieutenant; and subsequently resumed his Pilot training course. He was killed on 3 July 1918 whilst training in an R.E.8 at Yatesbury, when the engine stalled, causing the plane to go into a spin and plummet to the ground. Second Lieutenant Morton is buried in New Southgate Cemetery, Hertfordshire.
A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. pair awarded to Private J. Smith, 28th Battalion (Northwest), Canadian Infantry, later Veterans Guard of Canada Military Medal, G.V.R. (105119 Pte. J. Smith. 28/Sask: R.); Victory Medal 1914-19 (105119 L. Cpl. J. Smith. 28-Can. Inf.); Canadian Memorial Cross, G.VI.R. (L.97744. Pte. J. Smith. MM.); Birks Memorial Bar (Pte. J. Smith, M.M. V.G. of C. Died in his Country’s Service 16 Nov. 1946); together with Canadian Volunteer Service Medal, planchet only on last, generally nearly very fine or better (5) £300-£400 --- M.M. London Gazette 11 February 1919. James Smith was born in London, England in October 1887. He served during the Great War with the 28th Battalion (Northwest), Canadian Infantry on the Western Front. After the war Smith resided in Lipton, Saskatchewan, and served with the Veterans Guard of Canada during the Second World War. He died 16 November 1946, and is buried in Military Old Cemetery, Regina, Saskatchewan.
A Great War M.M. group of three awarded to Sergeant B. Hill (alias J. H. Jackson), 47th Battalion (Western Ontario), Canadian Infantry, who was killed by a sniper’s bullet at the Battle of the Selle in October 1918 Military Medal, G.V.R. (2025225 Cpl. B. Hill, 47/W. Ont. R.); British War and Victory Medals (2025225 Sjt. B. Hill, 47-Can. Inf.), rank and name re-impressed on the first, probably replacing the original ‘J. H. Jackson’, good very fine and better (3) £300-£400 --- M.M. London Gazette 11 February 1919. Benjamin Hill was born in Birmingham, Staffordshire, on 16 November 1895. Living in Victoria, British Columbia and employed as a Fitter and Turner, he enlisted into the 50th Battalion (Calgary) at Victoria in May 1917 - using the alias ‘John Henry Jackson’. Hill arrived in England in June 1917 aboard the S.S. Olympic and was transferred to the 16th Reserve Battalion and thence the 47th Battalion (Western Ontario) and entered France on 18 October 1917. Having then officially acknowledged that he had enlisted under an alias in March 1918, and that his true name was Benjamin Hill, he was killed in action at the Battle of the Selle on 20 October 1918. His bravery in action during that battle also earned him a posthumous M.M. and promotion to Sergeant, official records stating: ‘He was in charge of the Lewis Gun Section of ‘D’ Company during operations in the vicinity of Wavrechain on the morning of 20 October 1918, and while pushing forward with his Section on the outskirts of Demain he was hit and instantly killed by a bullet from an enemy sniper’s rifle.’ Aged 21 at the time of his death, Hill was buried in the Denain Communal Cemetery. He was the son of Mr. J. H. and Mrs. H. E. Hill, of 92 Wattville Road, Handsworth, Birmingham; sold with copied service papers.
A Great War ‘French theatre’ M.M. awarded to Private D. A. Bradford, 47th Battalion (Western Ontario), Canadian Infantry, who was twice wounded during the conflict Military Medal, G.V.R. (827159 Pte. D. A. Bradford. 47/W. Ont: R.) very fine £200-£300 --- M.M. London Gazette 11 February 1919. David Athwell Bradford was born in Wiarton, Ontario, Canada in September 1887. He was a Logger by trade, and served during the Great War with the 47th Battalion (Western Ontario), Canadian Infantry on the Western Front (twice wounded in action, 22 August 1917 and 4 September 1918). Bradford died in Vancouver in May 1972. Sold with copied service papers.
A Second War 1943 ‘Sicily Landings’ M.M. group of six awarded to Warrant Officer Class I M. Rodger, 2nd Battalion, Royal Scots Fusiliers, who was originally recommended for the D.C.M. for his gallantry on the beaches of Sicily during the early hours of 10 July 1943. Military Medal, G.VI.R. (3124671 W.O. Cl. 2. M. Rodger. R. S. Fus.); General Service 1918-62, 1 clasp, Palestine (3124671 Cpl. M. Rodger. R.S. Fus.); 1939-45 Star; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf; Army L.S. & G.C., G.VI.R., 1st issue, Regular Army (3124671 W.O. Cl. 2. M. Rodger. R. S. Fus.) generally nearly very fine or better (6) £1,200-£1,600 --- M.M. London Gazette 23 March 1944: ‘In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Sicily.’ The original recommendation (for a D.C.M.) states: ‘The Unit Landing Officer was wounded on landing at 0400hrs 10th July. This W.O. was his assistant, carried on with his work in a very cool and unperturbed manner. The work was complicated in that the Bn had two Assembly Areas on account of the advance leading off the right hand corner of the beach. This W.O. ran everything in a calm and orderly way, during the bombing of the beach and never failed to send vehs. and men up to his Bn as soon as they were ready to leave the Beach Area.’ M.I.D. London Gazette 4 April 1946 (North West Europe). Michael Rodger served during the Second War with the 2nd Battalion, Royal Scots Fusiliers as part of the 17th Infantry Brigade, 5th Infantry Division, XIII Corps for the Sicily Landings, 9/10th July 1943. Rodger’s Battalion landed on beaches in the Gulf of Noto around Avola, south-east Sicily during the early hours of 10 July 1943, as part of the opening stage of Operation Husky - the Allied invasion of Sicily. He subsequently advanced to Warrant Officer Class I.
An outstanding Second War ‘Burma operations 1945’ Immediate M.M. group of five awarded to Lance Naik Mohammad Ajaib, 9th Battalion, 14th Punjab Regiment Military Medal, G.VI.R. (20305 L-Nk Mohd Ajaib Punjab R); 1939-45 Star; Burma Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted on card for display, very fine (5) £1,000-£1,400 --- M.M. London Gazette 19 April 1945. The original recommendation states: ‘20305 Lance Naik Mohammad Ajaib. Punjab Mussalman Ghakar, Village Changryal, District Jhelum. 9th Battalion, 14th Punjab Regiment. For very gallant services in action at mile 16.5 on the road Budalin-Monywa on 4 January 1945. On 4 January 1945, L/Naik Mohd Ajaib was in command of a standing patrol, covering the battalion defended locality, 1.5 miles to the North. At about 2330 hrs a vehicle approached from the South at great speed. Appreciating that it would be better dealt with at the road block within the defended locality, L/Naik Mohd Ajaib withheld fire, allowed the vehicle to pass and informed Battalion H.Q. by telephone. As a result of the warning given by the L/Naik the vehicle was dealt with so effectively at the road block that out of the 14 Japs in the lorry, one Jap Officer and twelve O.R.s were killed on the spot and only one with a member of the Battalion National Army broke back out of the Battalion defended area and ran towards the standing patrol. On hearing footsteps L/Naik Mohd Ajaib stood his post to, and as the leading man approached him he stepped forward, grappled with him and held him down. Hot on his heels arrived the Japanese. L/Naik Mohd Ajaib immediately handed over his captive and went for the Japanese who came at him with his bayonet. L/Naik Mohd Ajaib parried the point with his sten gun. The point was only partially deflected and the L/Naik was wounded in the head. In spite of being wounded he continued to fight and single handed killed his man, who fought with fanatical bravery. L/Naik Mohd Ajaib’s initiative in holding his fire in the first case, and timely warning of the approach of the lorry was a major contributory factor which resulted in the annihilation of the occupants of the vehicle. His grim determination and guts in capturing the Burman, and killing the last Jap soldier ensured that no news of the failure of these reinforcements to get to Budalin reached Monywa.’
A Second War ‘North West Europe’ M.M. awarded to Gunner L. K. Smith, Observation Post Signaller, 13th Canadian Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery, recommended for his gallantry for service from D-Day to the Battle of Keppeln, 26 February 1945 Military Medal, G.VI.R. (M 66026 Gnr. L. K. Smith. R.C.A.); 1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence Medal, Canadian issue in silver; Canadian Volunteer Service Medal, with overseas clasp; War Medal 1939-45, Canadian issue in silver, campaign awards in card boxes of issue, with Canadian Army Soldier’s Service and Pay Book, generally good very fine or better (6) £1,000-£1,400 --- M.M. London Gazette 24 January 1946. The original recommendation states: ‘Gunner Lionel Kenneth Smith has acted as Observation Post Signaller from “D” Day, until the cessation of hostilities. As such, he has been continuously with the forward infantry troops relaying the fire orders to the guns during all the fighting. During this long period, he has consistently, under the most difficult conditions, remained at his wireless set. At times, when it was advisable for everyone else to take cover, he continued to pass the necessary orders. Every Forward Observation Officer, who worked with him, knew that when Gunner Smith was on the R/T set, if it were humanely possible, the orders would be passed. On 26 Feb 45, he was the R/T operator with the Artillery Forward Observation Officer with ‘B’ Company of the North Shore Regiment of Canada in their attack on Keppeln. This battle ranks with the toughest and finest of the war. ‘B’ and ‘C’ companies were reinforced by ‘A’ and ‘D’ companies. The Forward Observation Officer was wounded and replaced. Gunner Smith manned his set from the start to the finish of the battle. This is an example of this soldier’s steady, reliable service throughout the campaign.’ Lionel Kenneth Smith was born in Starkweather, North Dakota, USA in October 1917. He enlisted in the Royal Canadian Artillery at Edmonton, Canada in July 1941. He served with the 13th Canadian Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery during the Second War. Smith was discharged in January 1947.
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