Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War ‘Western Front’ D.S.O. group of three awarded to Major A. S. Mills, 47th Battalion, Canadian Infantry, who was twice wounded, and was Mentioned in Despatches

Distinguished Service Order, G.V.R., silver-gilt and enamel, with integral top riband bar; British War and Victory Medals (Major A. S. Mills.) suspensions slightly damaged on both campaign medals, generally very fine (3) £800-£1,200

D.S.O. London Gazette 18 October 1917; citation published 7 March 1918:
‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He commanded his battalion with great distinction during five days’ heavy fighting, gaining all his objectives and making several daring personal reconnaissances. His reports on the situation were clear and concise, and it was due to his inspiring personal example that no fewer than six determined counter-attacks were successfully repulsed with heavy loss to the enemy in the course of one day.’

Arthur Samuel Mills was born in Amhurst, Nova Scotia, on 15 August 1888 and was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the 47th Battalion, Canadian Infantry, on 1 June 1915. He sailed with his unit to England on 13 November 1915, and served during the Great War on the Western Front from 10 August 1916, and was severely wounded by gun shot to the left thigh on 25 October 1916, and by gun shot to the right foot on 22 April 1918. For his services during the Great War he was awarded the Distinguished Service Order, and was Mentioned in Despatches (London Gazette 26 December 1917). Advanced Major, he was discharged medically unfit on 26 March 1919.