A Great War D.C.M. awarded to Serjeant W. Hardy, 16th (Service Battalion) Battalion Nottinghamshire & Derbyshire Regiment (Chatsworth Rifles), killed in action, France, 21 March 1918

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (26867 Sjt., 16/N. & D.R.) some edge bruising, good very fine £800-900

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, A fine Collection of Medals to the Sherwood Foresters.

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D.C.M. London Gazette 22 October 1917; citation: 26 January 1918. ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During an attack upon an enemy trench he was the first man in his platoon to reach them, and promptly bombed two dugouts. Later in the day when his Officer had become a casualty, he showed great gallantry and ability commanding his platoon, under heavy shell fire. In addition to this, he acted as Company Sergeant-Major for five days and rendered most valuable services to his Commander under trying conditions, setting a splendid example of coolness, cheerful spirits and untiring energy to his men.’

Walter Hardy came from Chesterfield. A Police Officer by occupation, he attested at Chesterfield for the 16th Battalion Nottinghamshire & Derbyshire Regiment (Chatsworth Rifles) on 28 February 1916, aged 27 years, 6 months. He embarked for France on 6 March 1916 and was advanced to Serjeant on 15 May 1916. Awarded the D.C.M. for his gallantry and leadership in action - possibly at the battle in the Klein-Zillebecke sector of Ypres. Serjeant Hardy was killed in action on 21 March 1918. Having no known grave, his name is commemorated on the Poziers Memorial. With copied research.