Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War ‘Western Front’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Company Sergeant-Major W. F. Dachtler, 23rd Battalion, London Regiment

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (700861 C.S. Mjr: W. F. Dachtler. 1/23 Lond: R.); 1914-15 Star (3268 Pte. W. F. Dechtler. 23-Lond. R.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (3268 W.O. Cl. 2. W. F. Dechtler. 23 Lond. R.) mounted for display, light pitting from star, otherwise good very fine (4) £1,000-£1,400

D.C.M. London Gazette 1 January 1918; citation published 17 April 1918:
‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During an engagement he reconnoitred the enemy’s position under very difficult conditions, and obtained valuable information. He always showed great courage and determination at his work.’

M.I.D. London Gazette 25 May 1917.

William Frederick Dachtler was born in London on 23 April 1894, and was a wharf clerk on the River Thames prior to his enlistment into the 23rd London Regiment on 15 October 1914. He served during the Great War on the Western Front from 14 March 1915 until 24 March 1918, when he was taken prisoner. He remained a prisoner of war in German hands until released on 14 December 1918. After the war he spent some time recovering at the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, and was granted a Disability Pension. He migrated with his wife to Australia in April 1928 and was afterwards an Insurance Inspector with the Colonial Mutual Life Company until retirement. He was resident at Mount Lawley, Western Australia, and had two sons: William Benjamin, who served in the Royal Australian Navy, and James Frederick, who was Australian Catamaran Champion in 1968, and a Champion Yachtsman in 1975.

Sold with original Chelsea Hospital letter concerning D.C.M. Gratuity and Disablement Pension; 23rd London Regiment cap badge and shoulder title; two photographic images of the recipient; and copied research.