Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Memorial Plaque (James McAulay Thomson) nearly extremely fine £60-£80

D.C.M. London Gazette 22 September 1916:
‘For conspicuous gallantry and fine leading during operations. After all his officers were wounded, and when he had but a few men left, he refused to retire and hung on with the greatest determination.’

James McAulay Thompson was born in Ayr, Scotland, and served in Kitchener’s Horse, Warren’s Mounted Infantry, the Border Scouts, and in the Natal Light Horse prior to attesting for the South African Overseas Expeditionary Force at Potchefstroom on 28 August 1915. He served with the 2nd South African Infantry during the Great War on the Western Front from 20 April 1916, and was appointed acting Company Sergeant Major on 24 July 1916. Awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal, most likely for his gallantry during the Battle of Delville Wood, he was commissioned temporary Second Lieutenant on 30 August 1916, and was wounded in action by gun shot to the head on 10 October 1916. He died of his wounds a week later, on 17 October 1916, and is buried in St. Sever Cemetery, Rouen, France.

Sold with copied service papers and other research.