A Great War ‘Western Front’ Despatch Rider’s M.M. group of three awarded to Sapper E. Scott, Royal Engineers, for his gallantry at Bois des Buttes, 27 May 1918

Military Medal, G.V.R. (317053 Sapr. E. Scott. 8/D.S. Coy. R.E.); British War and Victory Medals (317053 Spr. E. Scott. R.E.) good very fine (3) £400-£500

M.M. London Gazette 21 October 1918.

The original citation states: ‘On the morning of 27 May 1918 at about 7:30 a.m. this Motor Cyclist was carrying important messages to O.C., 45th Brigade, and O.C., 33rd Brigade, situated at Bois des Buttes and Jean d’Arc. Undaunted by extremely heavy shellfire, he made his way through Pontavert and although under enemy rifle fire (his Despatch Case and Box Respirator both being hit), he pushed forward in a most determined manner in his endeavour to deliver his messages.
It was only when he was stopped by an Infantry Officer near 45th Brigade H.Q., he assured him that these H.Q. had been evacuated, and that he was then in the front infantry line, that this motor cyclist returned. From that date till 30th inst. he has continued to work with unceasing zeal and cheerful courage, and has delivered messages to all parts of the front under heavy fire of all descriptions in a most gallant manner.’

Edgar Scott, a native of Halifax, Yorkshire, was born c.1888 and prior to the Great War was employed by the Central Garage (Automobile and Electrical Engineers), Halifax. He served as an Army Cyclist during the Great War on the Western Front, and was awarded the Military Medal for his gallantry as a Despatch Rider at Bois des Buttes on 27 May 1918 - on this date the 2nd Battalion, Devonshire Regiment, part of the same 8th Division, fought a gallant last stand, and earned the unique Unit Distinction of the French Croix de Guerre avec Palme.

Sold together with an original testimonial letter from his employers, dated 9 February 1916; a post-card photograph of a group of Army Cyclists, in which Scott is identified; the recipient’s original marriage certificate; and copied research.