Special Collections

Sold on 5 April 2006

1 part

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A Collection of Medals to the Durham Light Infantry and associated units

Lot

№ 164

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5 April 2006

Hammer Price:
£3,200

A Great War D.C.M., M.M. group of five to Serjeant A. Caldwell, 9th Battalion Durham Light Infantry

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (325266 Sjt., 1/9 Durh. L.I.); Military Medal, G.V.R. (2501 Sjt., 9/Durh. L.I.); 1914-15 Star (2501 Pte., Durh. L.I.); British War and Victory Medals (9-2501 Sjt., Durh. L.I.) good very fine (5) £1800-2200

D.C.M. London Gazette 18 July 1917. ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He led his platoon with great courage and skill. He went forward and captured an enemy machine-gun and eleven prisoners. His prompt action removed a very serious obstacle’.

M.M.
London Gazette 9 December 1916.

Alexander Caldwell was born in 1889, the son of Jacob and Margaret Caldwell of 15 Ann Street, Gateshead. Enlisting at Gateshead, he served with the 1st/9th Battalion Durham Light Infantry, entering the France/Flanders theatre of war on 20 April 1915. For his bravery in action he was awarded the D.C.M. and M.M. He died of accidental injuries on 14 June 1917 and was buried in the Avesnes-le-Comte Cemetery, France. Sold with copied research.