Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War ‘East Africa’ D.C.M. group of five awarded to Sergeant A. E. Holmes, East African Pioneer Company, late Railway Pioneer Regiment, who was also twice Mentioned in Despatches

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (3144 Sjt: A. E. Holmes. E.A. Pr. Coy.); Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 3 clasps, Cape Colony, Orange Free State, Transvaal (728 Pte. A. E. Holmes. Rly: Pnr: Regt.); 1914-15 Star (3144 Pnr. A. E. Holmes. E.A. Pnr. Coy.) unit partially double-struck; British War and Victory Medals (3144 Sjt. A. E. Holmes. E.A. Pnr. Coy.) very fine (5) £600-£800

D.C.M. London Gazette 3 October 1918:
‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. Although advanced in years, he has always been most energetic, having been employed on both military works and field service for he last three years.’

M.I.D. London Gazettes 8 February 1917 and 7 March 1918 (both East Africa).

Arthur E. Holmes served with the Railway Pioneer Regiment in South Africa during the Boer War, and subsequently with the East African Pioneer Company in East Africa, Nyasaland, and Northern Rhodesia during the Great War from 23 July 1915. Discharged in the rank of Sergeant, for his services during the Great War he was twice Mentioned in Despatches, and was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal.