Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War Western Front ‘V.C. recommendation’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Lance-Corporal A. G. A. Harris, 3rd Dragoon Guards, for conspicuous gallantry near Monchy le Preux on 11 April 1917, on which occasion he had his hand practically severed at the wrist and was again wounded in the leg whilst attempting to deliver a message

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (13272 Cpl. A. G. A. Harris. 3/D. Gds.); 1914-15 Star (GS-13272 L. Cpl. A. G. A. Harris. 3-D. Gds.); British War and Victory Medals (GS-13272 Pte. A. G. A. Harris. 3-D. Gds.) very fine and better (4) £1,600-£2,000

D.C.M. London Gazette 18 June 1917:

‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. When carrying messages he was badly wounded twice in succession. Attempting to proceed and finding he was unable to, he crawled back and reported his condition.’
Annotated gazette states, ‘Near Monchy, 11 April 1917.’

The following recommendation for the award of the Victoria Cross was submitted on 14 April 1917, by Lieutenant-Colonel Alfred Burt, Commanding 3rd Dragoon Guards:

‘No 13272 L/Cpl Harries A. G. “B” Squadron 3rd Dragoon Guards, on 11th April 1917 at Arras, South of Monchy le Preux when sent on a message he had his right hand practically severed at the wrist but continued to try and proceed, was wounded again in the leg and crawled back to his Troop Leader to report he was unable to deliver the message. He advanced 100 yards with his arm shattered and crawled back 300 yards after being hit a second time - for V.C.’ (Battalion Ward Diary refers).

Alfred George Acton Harris enlisted on 29 March 1915, and served with the 3rd Dragoon Guards in France from 17 October 1915. He was discharged on 7 November 1917, due to wounds received in action at Monchy le Preux.

Sold with copied gazette notices and War Diary extracts.