Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War 1917 ‘Battle of Langemarck’ D.C.M. awarded to Company Sergeant Major J. N. Mitchell, 7th (Service) Battalion, Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (15836 Sjt: J. N. Mitchell. 7/D. Of Corn: L.I.) polished, nearly very fine £500-£600

D.C.M. London Gazette 26 January 1918:

‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During an enemy counter-attack he skilfully led reinforcements through a heavy barrage and formed a defensive flank when troops on the right had been forced back. He personally accounted for an enemy officer and four men, shooting them one by one as they attacked down a trench. He saved the flank by his magnificent coolness and courage.’

James N. Mitchell was a native of Bude, Cornwall. He attested for the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry at Bude, 12 September 1914, and served in the French theatre of war with the 7th (Service) Battalion. Mitchell was awarded the D.C.M. for his gallantry during the Battle of Langemarck, 16-18 August 1917.