A Great War D.C.M., M.M. group of six awarded to Sergeant J. Crystal, Royal Engineers

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (83035 Sapr. J. Crystal, 202/Fd. Coy. R.E.); Military Medal, G.V.R. (83035 Sjt. J. Crystal, D.C.M., 202/F. Coy. R.E.); 1914-15 Star (83035 Spr., R.E.); British War and Victory Medals (83035 Sjt., R.E.); French Medaille Militaire, silver, gilt and enamel, enamel work chipped on the latter, particularly on the reverse, contact marks, occasional bruising and polished, otherwise nearly very fine or better (6) £1200-1500

D.C.M. London Gazette 26 September 1916:

‘For conspicuous gallantry. With six sappers he dug out some buried men under heavy shell fire. He set a fine example of coolness and pluck, and his party succeeded in rescuing five men.’

M.M. London Gazette 11 December 1918.

John Crystal, a native of Liverpool, first entered the French theatre of war in November 1915. Most probably awarded his D.C.M. in respect of services on the Somme in 1916, he went on to add the M.M. to his accolades for further gallant deeds in 202nd Field Company, R.E. in 1918. He was also awarded the Silver War Badge, having been discharged as a result of sickness in February 1919 (SWB roll refers); French Medaille Militare unverified.