Orders, Decorations and Medals

Military Cross, G.V.R., reverse inscribed, ‘Major H. A. Colt, Glos. Regt. 1916’, nearly extremely fine £400-450

D.S.O. London Gazette 7 November 1918. ‘Colt, Henry Archer, M.C., Temporary Major (Acting Lieut.-Colonel), Gloucestershire Regiment.’ ‘For conspicuous gallantry and fine leadership. He commanded his battalion during three days’ severe fighting, including the capture of an important village, with very great ability and courage. In spite of heavy casualties he pushed forward to his successive objectives with great determination, being himself severely wounded when leading the final assault on the village. His example greatly inspired his men.’

M.C. London Gazette 1 January 1917.

M.I.D. London Gazette 30 May 1918 (Plumer, Italy); 27 December 1918 (Haig, France).

Henry Archer Colt was born on 16 September 1882, the eldest son of Thomas Archer Colt, O.B.E. Educated at Portsmouth Grammar School and H.M.S. Britannia, he entered the Royal Navy, becoming a Midshipman in 1898. He retired with the rank of Lieutenant-Commander in 1912. In the Great War he served with the 12th Battalion Gloucestershire Regiment and attained the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel in October 1917. For his services he was twice mentioned in despatches and awarded the M.C. and D.S.O. In winning his D.S.O. he was severely wounded. In 1931 he succeeded his uncle and became the 9th Baronet (created in 1744). During the Second World War he joined the R.A.F.V.R., becoming a Flight Lieutenant in September 1939 and attained the rank of Squadron Leader in July 1944. Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Henry Colt died on 10 February 1951. With copied service and biographical research.