Orders, Decorations and Medals

A superb Great War ‘Old Contemptibles’ D.C.M. & Bar, M.M. group of six awarded to Serjeant J. Wood, 1st Battalion, Liverpool Regiment

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. and Second Award Bar (8090 Sjt., J. Woods, 1/L’pool R.); Military Medal, G.V.R. (8090 Sjt. J. Woods, 1/L’pool. R.); Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 3 clasps, Cape Colony, Orange Free State, South Africa 1901 (7146 Pte. J. E. Wood, S. Lanc. Regt.); 1914 Star, with clasp (8090 Pte. J. Wood, 1/L’pool. R.); British War and Victory Medals (8090 Sjt. J. Wood, L’pool. R.) mounted for display, note variation in spelling of surname, very fine (6) £6000-8000

D.C.M. London Gazette 23 March 1918. ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. When the enemy was threatening the flank and was bombing down a communication trench he bombed them back, and organised a block. The latter he held against repeated heavy attacks, and continued bombing the enemy until relieved on the following morning. It was largely due to his courage and determination that the hostile attacks were held up.’

Bar to D.C.M. London Gazette 15 November 1918. (Awarded for action at Ervillers on 8 August 1918) ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during an attack. When his officers became casualties he assumed command and led the company with great dash and determination under heavy fire. He showed a sound military knowledge throughout the attack and subsequent consolidation and patrolling, and proved a most capable leader.’

M.M. London Gazette 24 January 1919.

John E. Wood came from Garston, Merseyside. As a Private in the 1st Battalion Liverpool Regiment he entered the France/Flanders theatre of war on 12 August 1914.