Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War ‘Western Front 1917’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Lance-Serjeant W. H. Fenton, Coldstream Guards, who was granted the King’s Pardon for desertion in 1914

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (7303 L. Sjt: W. H. Fenton. 2/C. Gds:); 1914 Star, with clasp (7303 Pte. W. H. Fenton. C. Gds.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (7303 Cpl. W. H. Fenton. C. Gds.) good very fine (4) £1,600-£2,000

Provenance: Sir Torquil Matheson Collection; Bill and Angela Strong Collection, Dix Noonan Webb, May 2011.

D.C.M. London Gazette 26 April 1917: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He went forward alone under the most intense fire, and obtained information of the utmost importance. Later, he assumed command of his platoon, and led them forward in a most gallant manner. He has on many previous occasions done fine work.’
Annotated Gazette states: ‘Sailly Church, 14/15th March 1917.’

M.I.D. London Gazette 22 May 1917.

William Henry Fenton was born at Smithwick, Birmingham. A labourer by occupation, he attested for the Coldstream Guards in June 1907, aged 18 years, 6 months. Posted to the 2nd Battalion, he was soon in trouble, awaiting trial, being absent without leave, in December 1907. Found guilty he was detained for 1 week. With the battalion he served in Egypt from January 1909-March 1911. Returning to England and posted to the 3rd Battalion, he deserted on 14 July 1912. Fenton returned to service on 14 August 1914 - thereby gaining the King’s Pardon for his desertion. Under the terms of Army Orders September 1914, published on 7 August 1914, pardons were to be granted to all those who were in a state of desertion from regular forces on 5 August 1914, who then surrendered themselves on or before 4 September 1914 in the U.K. or 4 October 1914 if overseas.

Having returned to service, Fenton was posted to the 2nd Battalion Coldstream Guards and entered the France and Flanders theatre of war on 30 August 1914, being appointed Lance-Sergeant in October 1916. In early 1917, the battalion was south of Arras and involved in following up the German retreat to the Hindenburg line. It was here, near Sailly Saillisel on 14/15th March, that Lance-Sergeant Fenton earned his D.C.M. He was subsequently mentioned in despatches and returned home on 10 July 1917, being later awarded the Silver War Badge.

With copied record of service, London Gazette entries, Medal Index Card and other research.