Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria to coincide with the OMRS Convention

A Great War D.S.C. pair awarded to Sub. Lieutenant C. K. Chase, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve and Royal Naval Air Service

Distinguished Service Cross, G.V.R., the reverse privately inscribed ‘C. K. Chase, Sub. Lieut., R.N.V.R., att. R.N.A.S. Dunkirk, 21st April 1917’; French Croix de Guerre 1914-1917, the reverse privately inscribed around the centre, ‘C. K. Chase, Dunkirk, 21st April 1917’, extremely fine (2) £600-700

D.S.C. London Gazette 21 April 1917 [Joint citation] ‘In recognition of their services on 1 March 1917, when they were attacked by hostile machines whilst on a reconnaissance flight and brought them both down out of control. Flight Lieutenant Edwards was hit by a bullet which passed through the left shoulder, fracturing the collar bone, and at the same time was slightly wounded in both feet. Although suffering considerably, he brought his machine home safely, inspite of being again attacked by two hostile aircraft. By his determination and pluck he probably saved his own life and that of his Observer.’

French Croix de Guerre London Gazette 20 July 1917: ‘For distinguished services rendered during the War.’

Charles Keith Chase was serving as an Observer with No. 2 Naval Squadron at the time of the above incident, his Sopwith Strutter (tractor biplane) landing at Furnes with ‘battle damage’ following this encounter with five enemy aircraft over Bruges. His D.S.C. was forwarded to him by the Admiralty in November 1920. Chase latterly served as a Captain with No. 66 Wing, Royal Air Force, out in the Mediterranean.