Orders, Decorations and Medals

A Great War ‘Battle of Gaza’ D.C.M. group of seven awarded to Warrant Officer Class 1 W. H. Cousens, 2nd/5th Battalion Hampshire Regiment

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (240009 C.S. Mjr., 2/5 Hants. R.-T.F.); British War and Victory Medals (240009 A.W.O. Cl.1 Hamps. R.); Territorial Force War Medal 1914-18, erased naming; Defence Medal, unnamed; Territorial Force Efficiency Medal, G.V.R. (240009 C.S. Mjr., 5/Hants. R.); France, Croix de Guerre 1914-1918, bronze star on ribbon, mounted court style for wear, good very fine (7) £1000-1200

D.C.M. London Gazette 11 April 1918; citation 1 May 1918. ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during an advance. He carried out his duties with great ability and energy. His disregard of danger on all occasions was a splendid example and encouragement to his men.’

The recipient came from Eastleigh. He was mobilised in August 1914 and was immediately drafted to India, where he served on garrison duties for two years. In 1916 he was transferred to Egypt and later served in General Allenby’s advance into Palestine. He was awarded the D.C.M. and Croix de Guerre for conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during the battle of Gaza. Awarded the T.F.E.M. by A.O. 236 of August 1918. Entitled to the Territorial Force War Medal. With copied m.i.c., gazette extracts and other research.