Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Scarce Great War ‘Western Front 1918’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Acting Sergeant Montis Watts, North Somerset Yeomanry, one of only five such awards identified to this unit, he single-handedly rushed and captured an enemy machine-gun detachment

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (165463 A. Sjt: M. Watts. 1/1 N. Som: Yeo:); 1914-15 Star (1240 L. Cpl. M. M. Watts, N. Som. Yeo.); British War and Victory Medals (1240 Pte. M. Watts. N. Som. Yeo.) mounted on card for display, contact pitting from Star, otherwise very fine (4) £1,000-£1,400

D.C.M. London Gazette 3 June 1918; citation published 21 October 1918:
‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. This non-commissioned officer when in advance of a patrol fell in with an enemy machine-gun detachment. Without the slightest hesitation he rushed them alone, capturing both gun and team. He is at all times keen and courageous.’

Montis M. Watts hailed from Queen Camel but was born nearby at Sparkford, Somerset, younger son of Frank and Ethel Watts. He served in France with 1/1 North Somerset Yeomanry from 30 May 1915, winning one of just five D.C.M.s identified as having been awarded to the regiment during the Great War. The regiment formed part of the 6th Cavalry Division but was disembodied in April 1918. His elder brother Clement won the M.M. and Italian War Cross as a Corporal in the 3rd Devons.

Sold with copied research including gazette entries, D.C.M. Card and Medal Index Card.