A Great War 1917 ‘Third Battle of Gaza’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant H. Watsham, Essex Regiment, who, taking charge of the first wave of his company against the Turkish positions, bombed and secured the enemy trenches, before being wounded, on 2 November 1917

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (250426 Sjt: H. Watsham. 1/5 Essex R.); 1914-15 Star (2326 Pte. H. Watsham. Essex R.); British War and Victory Medals (2326 Sjt. H. Watsham. Essex R.) minor edge bruise to VM, good very fine (4) £1,000-£1,400

D.C.M. London Gazette 3 September 1918:
‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during an attack. In charge of the first wave of his company, he led them to the assault, and reorganised them in the captured trench, after which he cleared a communication trench with bombs, and was clearing another when badly wounded. He set a fine example to all.’

Harold Watsham was born in Elmstead, Essex, in 1896 and attested for the Essex Regiment following the outbreak of the Great War. He served with the 5th Battalion (Territorial Force) in Gallipoli, landing at Suvla Bay on 9 August 1915, and was promoted Lance-Corporal on 7 September 1915. Advanced Sergeant, he saw further service with the Battalion in Egypt, and was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his gallantry during the 3rd Battle of Gaza on 2 November 1917:
‘He took charge of the first wave of his company [against the Turks] when his officer fell wounded, and then bombed and cleared a communication trench. He started upon another, but was wounded in several places.’ (History of the Essex Regiment, by J. W. Burrows refers).

Watsham lost two fingers in the fighting, and was discharged on account of his wounds on 25 March 1918, being awarded the Silver War Badge.

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