Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.C. group of three awarded to Lieutenant N. Nicholson, 87th Battalion Canadian Infantry (Canadian Grenadier Guards)

Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued; British War and Victory Medals (Lieut. N. Nicholson.) extremely fine (3) £700-£900

M.C. London Gazette 2 April 1919:

‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty on 5th November, 1918, in the Valenciennes sector. In command of a company, he showed extraordinary skill in making his dispositions to overcome very heavy machine-gun fire from his front and both flanks, and he personally directed a successful attack on established posts along a sunken road, gaining most valuable information for the attack, which took place the following morning. His magnificent example was an inspiration to all ranks with him.’

Norman Nicholson was born at Kendall, Westmoreland, on 22 February 1895. He enlisted for the 87th Battalion, C.E.F., on 23 September 1915, at Montreal, and embarked for England with the 87th Bn. as a sergeant on 23 April 1916. Proceeded to France with 87th Bn. 11 August 1916; promoted to company sergeant-major, 22 January 1917; transferred to England with a view to being granted a commission in February 1917, and made temporary lieutenant and posted to 22nd Reserve Bn., 28 April 1917. Proceeded to France and taken on strength 87th Bn., 24 January 1918; acting captain, Quebec Regiment, 16 October 1918; temporary captain, Quebec Regiment, 14 April 1919. He was invalided to England, sick, and posted to Quebec Regimental Depot, 7 May 1919, and sailed for Canada on 13 August 1919.

Sold with copied record of service and other research.