A rare Great War D.C.M. awarded for combat in the air to Sergeant A.R. Hervey-Bathurst, Royal Flying Corps

DISTINGUISHED CONDUCT MEDAL, G.V.R. (49181 Sjt., R.F.C.) nearly extremely fine

D.C.M., London Gazette, 1st January ,1918; citation, London Gazette, 17th April 1918: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He has on all occasions shown the greatest gallantry and resource in engaging enemy aircraft. During a combat though seriously wounded in the knee, he brought his machine back safely by skilful piloting and landed it at his aerodrome without damage. He has always displayed a fine aggressive spirit and has set an excellent example to his men.’

Sergeant Arthur Reginald Hervey-Bathurst obtained his Pilot Licence No. 3650 on 1st October, 1916, and was posted to 29 Squadron, R.F.C., on 25th June, 1917. He was wounded on two occasions, the last seriously on 9th August, 1917 when his formation was attacked by 8 Albatross Scouts, he gallantly succeeded in bringing his machine back to the aerodrome and effected a good landing. A total of 92 D.C.M.'s to the Royal Flying Corps, of which only 35 were awarded for flying.