Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War ‘Givinchy’ 1918 D.C.M. awarded to Corporal E. C. Gwilt, Lancashire Fusiliers

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (52065 L.Cpl. E. C. Gwilt. 2/5 Lan: Fus:) light contact marks, very fine £600-£800

D.C.M. London Gazette 15 November 1918:
‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. As soon as the objectives had been gained in an attack, he went forward and carried out anti-gas measures under heavy fire. He worked continuously for over 12 hours and prevented many casualties by his skill and energy.’

Ernest C. Gwilt was born in Herefordshire, and attested for the Lancashire Fusiliers, serving with the 2nd/5th Battalion during the Second World War on the Western Front. He was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his gallantry at Givenchy in August 1918- the Regimental History gives the following account:
‘The consolidation was soon tested, for at 9:30 a.m. on 24th August the Germans attempted a counter-attack with two companies, which were soon shattered by artillery, Lewis-gun, and rifle fire. The work of putting the new line in order was thereafter continued steadily during the day, though under heavy fire, Lance-Corporal C. E. Gwilt being particularly useful in methodically carrying out anti-gas measures for twelve hours without rest, preventing many casualties from this cause.’

Sold with a CD with copied research.