A Great War D.S.O. group of four awarded to Major Edward Basil Blogg, Royal Engineers, who died of wounds on 16 March 1916

Distinguished Service Order, G.V.R., silver-gilt and enamel; 1914-15 Star (Capt., R.E.); British War and Victory Medals, M.I.D. oak leaf (Major) mounted court style for wear, nearly extremely fine (4) £2000-2500

D.S.O. London Gazette 4 November 1915. ‘For conspicuous gallantry and ability from 27 August to 25 September 1915, near Loos and Hill 70, when he pushed forward the construction of front line trenches with great energy. His area came under heavy fire, but he carried on his work, displaying great bravery and coolness. After the assault he personally directed the consolidation of the captured positions. In Loos, he himself unloaded the mines under the church tower, carrying out this dangerous work under heavy shell fire.’

Edward Basil Blogg was born in Walmer Vicarage, Walmer, Kent on 31 July 1887. Educated at West Wratting Park, Cambridge, he was appointed a Clerk to the Lord Chamberlain’s Office in 1907. In May 1909 he was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the 4th London Field Company, 2nd London Divisional Engineers (T.F.), being promoted to Lieutenant in July 1911. On the outbreak of war he volunteered for active service overseas and served with the Expeditionary Force in France. He was advanced to Temporary Captain in February 1915 and Temporary Major in April 1915. On the death of his Major in April 1915 he took command of the 1/4th Company Royal Engineers. For his gallant service during the battle of Loos in August/September 1915 he was awarded the D.S.O. and was twice mentioned in despatches. In The 47th (London) Division 1914-1919, by A. H. Maude, it records, ‘Another act of gallantry, which also won the D.S.O., was performed by Major E. B. Blogg, of the 4th London Field Coy., R.E. Beneath the church tower of Loos the enemy had laid mines. Under heavy shell-fire Major Blogg went in and cut the fuse, thereby saving many lives’.

Major Blogg, commanding the 4th London Field Company, R.E., was killed in action on 16 March 1916 whilst on reconnaissance, being mortally wounded by a rifle bullet, he died shortly afterwards at the 69th Field Ambulance, aged 28 years. Major Blogg was buried in the Bethune Town Cemetery. He was the son of the late Rev. Fowler Babbington Blogg, M.A., Rector of Great Mongeham, Deal, and Helen Adela Blogg, of Shearfold, Brede, Sussex.

Sold with a quantity of copied service papers and other research.