Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A scarce Great War ‘German South West Africa, Battle of Pforte-Jakkalswater-Riet’ D.C.M. awarded to Sergeant S. G. W. Steenkamp, Ermelo Commando, who also suffered a gun shot wound to the jaw, 20 March 1915

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (Sjt. S. G. W. Steenkamp. Ermelo Commando.) very fine £600-£800

D.C.M. London Gazette 22 August 1918 (originally recommended for an M.M.):
‘He showed exceptional bravery at the battle of Pforte and was always trustworthy and obedient in the execution of his orders. He was severely wounded. His conduct at all times was exemplary.’

Coleman Gerhardus Martinus Steenkamp served during the Second Boer War as a Burgher with the Swaziland Commando. He subsequently enlisted in the Ermelo Commando, 29 November 1914, and travelled to German South West Africa with the SS Galway Castle, 5 February 1915. Steenkamp distinguished himself at the Battle of Pforte-Jakkalswater-Riet, where he also suffered a gun shot wound to the lower jaw, 20 March 1915. German losses for the battle were 4 officers and 12 other ranks killed, one officer and 20 other ranks wounded, and 9 officers and 275 other ranks taken prisoner. South African casualties were 2 officers and 11 other ranks killed, as well as 5 officers and 36 other ranks wounded.

Steenkamp was evacuated back to South Africa for medical treatment, and was discharged medically unfit in December 1919.

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