A good Great War 1918 ‘German Spring Offensive’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant R. Scott, Tank Corps and Northumberland Fusiliers, for the rearguard action at the Bois de Tailles on 26 March 1918

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (76804 L. Cpl. R. Scott. 1/Tank Corps.); 1914-15 Star (14625 Pte. R. Scott. North’d. Fus.); British War and Victory Medals (14625 Sjt. R. Scott. North’d. Fus) nearly extremely fine (4) £1,400-£1,800

Provenance: Bill Green Collection, Dix Noonan Webb, April 2004.

D.C.M. London Gazette 3 September 1918:
‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during a rearguard action. He and a comrade volunteered to remain behind with an officer, and cover the withdrawal of the remainder of the company, with the Lewis guns. They remained firing until the post was entirely surrounded, and then cut their way out with the last drum of ammunition and carrying the guns. They set a splendid example of courage throughout.’

Robert Scott attested for the Northumberland Fusiliers, and served with them during the Great War on the Western Front, before transferring to the 1st Battalion, Tank Corps. He was awarded the D.C.M. alongside Private W. J. Ford (the comrade referred to in the above citation) for most conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty on 26 March 1918, at the Bois de Tailles. When his company was fighting a rearguard action covering the withdrawal of the infantry from Bray it became partially surrounded, and, running short of ammunition, a withdrawal was necessary. Scott and Ford volunteered to remain behind with Captain F. S. Hunnikin and cover the withdrawal of the remainder of the company with two Lewis guns. They worked their guns continually throughout the day and remained with Captain Hunnikin until the withdrawal of the company was completed, and afterwards until the post was entirely surrounded. For his part in the action Captain Hinnikin was awarded the Military Cross.