British and World Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.M. group of three awarded to Private J. Livingstone, 1st Battalion Gordon Highlanders

Military Medal, G.V.R. (S-17092 Pte., 1/Gord. Highrs.); British War and Victory Medals (S-17092 Pte., Gordons) good very fine (3) £280-320

M.M. London Gazette 17 June 1919.

James Livingstone came from Dundee, Scotland; he joined the 3rd (Reserve) Battalion of the Gordon Highlanders in 1916 for his initial training and was then posted to the 1st Battalion Gordon Highlanders in France.

The 1st Battalion having suffered terrible casualties in the battle of Le Cateau, had been brought up to strength and in 1916 were part of the 76th Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division.

In 1918 the 1st Battalion Gordon Highlanders were struck by the immense power of the German attack Codenamed Operation Michael when, following a devastating artillery bombardment, 23 German Divisions launched a last major offensive. Unlike the 5th Gordons who were overrun in the initial attack, the 1st Gordons Highlanders, although suffering heavy casualties, held their ground and came to notice for “ Stubborn and heroic actions by platoons, sections and even individuals.”

On 17 June 1919 Private James Livingstone and 23 other members of the 1st Battalion Gordon Highlanders were awarded the Military Medal. This was the last major issue of the Military Medal to the 1st Battalion, although on 20 August 1919 one further Military Medal was awarded and on 30 January 1920 a further 10 Highlanders were honoured. These latter soldiers were all pre-war regulars many of whom were reported as “Missing” after the Battle of Le Cateau on 26 August 1916.