Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War 1918 ‘Mesopotamia’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant C. Freel, South Lancashire Regiment

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (10940 Cpl. C. Freel. 6/S. Lan. R.); 1914-15 Star (10940 L.Cpl. C. Freel. S. Lan: R.); British War and Victory Medals (10940 A. Sjt. C. Freel. S. Lan. R.) very fine (4) £700-£900

D.C.M. London Gazette 26 August 1918 (citation 21 October 1918):
‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. As non-commissioned officer in charge of stretcher corps bearers, he has on many occasions shown great bravery, energy, and determination, no duty being too dangerous for him, and his magnificent example has always encouraged the bearers under him to greater efforts.’

Charles Freel attested for the South Lancashire Regiment and served with them in the Gallipoli theatre of War from 1 July 1915, where he was Mentioned in General Sir Ian Hamilton’s Despatch of December 1915 (London Gazette 28 January 1916). Subsequently posted to the 6th Battalion, he served in charge of the stretcher corps bearers, and was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his distinguished service in connection with Military Operations with the British Forces in Mesopotamia. He transferred to Class ‘Z’ Reserve on 17 February 1919.