A scarce Great War 1918 ‘French theatre’ D.C.M. pair awarded to Chief Petty Officer H. J. Simon, Drake Battalion, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (L5-3122 A. Chf: P.O. H. J. Simon: Drake Bn: R.N.V.R.); Victory Medal 1914-19 (L.5-3122 H. J. Simon Act. C.P.O. R.N.V.R.) generally very fine or better (2) £700-£900

D.C.M. London Gazette 17 April 1918:

‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During lengthy operations, by his courage and ability, he invariably secured the supply of rations, frequently under heavy shell fire.’

M.I.D. London Gazette 5 July 1919. (France)

H. J. Simon was a native of Hurst, Bexley. He served during the Great War with ‘C’ Company, Drake Battalion, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve from August 1914 (entitled to Star). Simon advanced to Petty Officer and served with the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force from September 1915. After several Staff roles he returned to Drake Battalion, advanced to Acting Chief Petty Officer, and served with the them in the French theatre of war from May 1916. Simon was demobilised in February 1919.