A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.C. group of three awarded to Captain W. J. Keeling, 8th Battalion, Lincolnshire Regiment

Military Cross, G.V.R., the reverse engraved ‘William John Keeling, Lincolnshire Regt: Nov - 1916’; British War and Victory Medals (Capt. W. J. Keeling.) good very fine (3) £700-£900

M.C. London Gazette 3 March 1917:
‘For conspicuous gallantry in action. He displayed great courage and determination in establishing bombing posts at a critical time, working under very heavy fire and most trying conditions. He set a fine example to his men.’

William John Keeling was commissioned into the 9th (Reserve) Battalion, Lincolnshire Regiment, on 20 January 1916, and served in France with the 8th (Service) Battalion from 16 June 1916. He was awarded the M.C. for the action at Beaucourt, 14-20 November 1916. Promoted to Lieutenant on 11 December 1916, he was attached to the 1st and 2nd Battalions, and later served with the 2nd King’s African Rifles from 7 November 1917-1919.