Orders, Decorations and Medals

A Great War D.C.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant W. J. Whitewood, Royal Engineers, attached the “Irish Brigade”

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (58661 A. Cpl., 16/Sig. Coy. R.E.); 1914-15 Star (58661 Sjt., R.E.); British War and Victory Medals, M.I.D. oak leaf (58661 Sjt., R.E.), very fine and better (4) £1000-1200

D.C.M. London Gazette 25 August 1917:

‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty when in charge of his brigade forward party in establishing communication with Headquarters under very heavy shell fire. He displayed an absolute disregard for personal safety, inspiring all ranks by his splendid example. With his officer he set up and maintained a forward station under intense hostile shelling. He has on many occasions distinguished himself by his gallantry and devotion to duty.’

William J. Whitewood first entered the French theatre of war in December 1915. Awarded the D.C.M. for his services in 16th Signal Company, R.E., and mentioned in despatches (London Gazette 7 July 1919 refers), he was demobilised in August 1919.

Sold with the recipient’s original M.I.D. certificate, in the name of ‘58361 Sjt. W. J. Whitewood, 16th D.S. Coy., Royal Engineers’, Haig’s despatch dated 16 March 1919; his “Irish Brigade” commendation cards, the first for gallant conduct and devotion to duty in the Field ‘during 1916’, and the second for similar deeds on 7 June 1917, both signed by the Major-General Commanding, 16th Irish Division; together with his Great War period embroidered Sergeant’s stripes and R.E. grenade.