Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A good Second War 1940 ‘Withdrawal from France’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant W. Anderson, Highland Light Infantry

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.VI.R. (3313030 Sjt. W. Anderson. H.L.I.); 1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; War Medal 1939-45, light contact marks, nearly extremely fine (4) £2,400-£2,800

D.C.M. London Gazette 20 December 1940:
‘In recognition of gallantry in France and Flanders.’

The original Recommendation states: ‘On 14 June 1940 at Ferrières-Haut-Clocher this N.C.O. carried the message, by motor cycle, from Battalion H.Q. to Company H.Q., ordering the withdrawal of the Company. He had to approach through a hail of light machine gun fire which might well have caused him to give up the attempt. His very outstanding courage and coolness undoubtedly saved the lives of every person at Company H.Q. and by getting the message through he saved the whole Company, which was rapidly being surrounded by overwhelming numbers, from being completely cut off. It is impossible to praise too highly his courage.’

William Anderson served during the Second World War with the 5th Battalion, Highland Light Infantry, as part of 157th Brigade, 52nd Division, in northern France.