Orders, Decorations and Medals

A Great War ‘Gallipoli’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Serjeant W. H. Matthews, Royal Fusiliers, who was killed in action during the Third Battle of Krithia, 5 June 1915

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (8300 Sjt., 2/R. Fus.); 1914-15 Star (8300 Sjt., R. Fus.); British War and Victory Medals, M.I.D. oak leaf (L-8300 Sjt., R. Fus.), mounted court style for display, very fine and better (4) £2000-2500

D.C.M. London Gazette 6 September 1915. ‘For conspicuous gallantry and ability from the 25th April to 25th July 1915, during the operations on the Gallipoli Peninsula. During the whole of this period Serjeant Matthews has displayed consistent coolness and courage, frequently under very heavy shell, machine-gun and rifle fire, and has led his platoon with great ability. His fine example and devotion to duty have always afforded the greatest encouragement to all under him’.

M.I.D. London Gazette 5 August 1915.

William Henry Matthews was born in Heston and enlisted at Cape Town. Serving as a Serjeant in the 2nd Battalion Royal Fusiliers, he entered the Balkan theatre of war on 25 April 1915, the day the beaches at Gallipoli were stormed. A Fusilier Brigade consisting of the 2nd Battalion Royal Fusiliers, 1st Battalion Lancashire Fusiliers, Royal Munster Fusiliers and Royal Dublin Fusiliers, were the first to land on the Peninsula and were to cover the disembarkation of the rest of the 29th Division. The 2nd Battalion Royal Fusiliers were alotted ‘X’ Beach and were put ashore by lighters from H.M.S. Implacable - the event often referred to as the ‘Implacable Landing’. For his actions on the Gallipoli Peninsula Serjeant Matthews was mentioned in despatches and awarded the D.C.M. He was killed in action there on 5 June 1915 during the Third Battle of Krithia. His name is commemorated on the Helles Memorial. Sold with copied m.i.c. and other research.