Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War ‘German East Africa’ D.C.M. awarded to Regimental Sergeant Major T. West, 5th Regiment, South African Infantry

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (4762 C. S. Mjr: T. West. 5/S.A. Inf:) very fine £500-£700

D.C.M. London Gazette 3 March 1917:
‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He has performed consistent good work throughout. On one occasion during an enemy counter-attack he greatly helped to steady his company by his coolness and daring.’

Thomas West was born in Kildare, Ireland, and having emigrated to South Africa resided at Wynberg, Cape Province, where he was employed as an Explosive Maker prior to the Great War. His attestation form for the South African Expeditionary Forces list his previous military service as: ‘1st Royal Scots 6 years 3 months; Rhodesian Regiment 9 months; Scotts Railway Guards 6 months; K Battery Heavy Artillery 7 months.’ He attested for the 5th Regiment, South African Infantry, on 2 December 1915, and served with them during the Great War in German East Africa.

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