Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War ‘Battle of the Somme 1916’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant A. R. Matthew, 8/10th Battalion, Gordon Highlanders

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (S-7622 Sjt: A. R. Matthew. 8/10 Gord: Hdrs.); 1914-15 Star (S-7622. Pte. A. R. Matthew, Gord. Highrs.); British War and Victory Medals (S-7622 Sjt. A. Matthew. Gordons.) medals unmounted, edge bruising and contact marks, otherwise nearly very fine (4) £900-£1,200

D.C.M. London Gazette 26 January 1917:
‘For conspicuous gallantry in action. On two occasions he displayed great courage and determination on patrol, and obtained most valuable information. He has on many occasions done fine work.’
Annotated gazette states: ‘Martinpuich, Butte de Warlencourt, 10 October 1916.’

Alexander R. Matthew enlisted on 24 November 1914, and landed in France with 8th Battalion, Gordon Highlanders on 10 May 1915, as part of 26th Brigade, 9th Division. In May 1916 the Battalion was transferred to to 144th Brigade, 15th (Scottish Division) and amalgamated with the 10th Battalion to form 8/10 Battalion. The village of Martinpuich was captured by captured by the 15th Division on 15 September 1916, in view of the nearby Butte de Warlencourt, probably a Neolithic burial ground and the only raised feature in the area which was fought over for several weeks more. Sergeant Matthew was discharged on 2 December 1918, aged 27 years 10 months, being no longer physically fit for war service.

Sold with copied research including gazette notices and Battalion War Diary.