Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War 1917 ‘Battle of Passchendaele’ M.M. group of three awarded to Sergeant J. D. McNeil, 85th Battalion (Nova Scotia Highlanders), Canadian Infantry, who was also wounded in action and gassed during the course of the war

Military Medal, G.V.R. (222432 Cpl - Sjt: - J. D. McNeil. 85/Can: Inf:); British War and Victory Medals (222432 Sjt. J. D. McNeil. 85 - Can. Inf.) mounted for display, nearly extremely fine (3) £300-£400

M.M. London Gazette 13 March 1918. The original recommendation states:

‘For conspicuous gallantry in action on Passchendaele Ridge between 28th and 30th October 1917. While in support trenches he rushed out under heavy shell fire, dressing and carrying in wounded. Later, during the advance, when his platoon commander became a casualty, he rallied his platoon, led them gallantly forward, capturing a strong point and going on to the objective, where he used excellent judgement and skill in reorganising, consolidating and arranging the posts.’

J. D. McNeil was born in Baddeck, Nova Scotia and enlisted in the Canadian Overseas Expeditionary Force in October 1915. He served during the Great War with the 85th Battalion (Nova Scotia Highlanders), Canadian Infantry in the French theatre of war from 8 March 1917.

McNeil received a shrapnel wound to the left thigh, 20 June 1917. He was awarded the M.M. for his gallantry in the Battle of Passchendaele, during which he was gassed. McNeill returned to Canada in September 1918, and was discharged in February 1919.