Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

An extremely rare West African Frontier Force D.C.M. and Bar awarded to Company Sergeant-Major Momadu Kukawa, Nigeria Regiment, who was decorated for gallant deeds in the Cameroons in October 1914 and at Behobeho in German East Africa in January 1917, on which latter occasion he was shot through both knees

West African Frontier Force Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R., with Second Award Bar (6410 Sjt. Momadu Kukawa, Nigeria Regt.), the Bar directly affixed to the suspension, good very fine £1400-1600

One of just eight Bars issued to the W.A.F.F. D.C.M.

W.A.F.F. D.C.M. Nigeria Gazette 25 November 1915:

‘At Jabassi (Yabasi) on 31 October 1914, he accompanied Lieutenant Allen on a patrol which left camp at 4 a.m. The patrol came under heavy fire when about 100 yards out, and the point was broken up at very short range, two men being killed. Sergeant Mamadu Kukawa volunteered to go forward and see what was happening. He crawled right in to the enemy’s position, which they had just vacated.’

Bar to W.A.F.F. D.C.M. Nigeria Gazette 7 March 1918:

‘For conspicuous gallantry in action at Behobeho on 3 January 1917. When shot through both knees, he continued to command his men and refused to be taken to the rear.’

Momadu Kukawa was also twice mentioned in despatches (London Gazettes 31 May 1916 (Cameroons) and 7 March 1918 (German East Africa)). His medal was issued from Woolwich on 25 August 1915 and a second medal was issued in error on 29 January 1918; this latter was subsequently returned to Woolwich and a clasp sent in its place on 1 February 1918; see With The Nigerians in German East Africa, by Downes, for further details in respect of action at Behobeho in January 1917.