Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War 1917 ‘Western Front’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant J. Stephen, Royal Field Artillery

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (630095 A.Sjt: J. Stephen. 255/High: Bde. R.F.A.); 1914-15 Star (353. Cpl. J. Stephen. R.F.A.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (353 Sjt. J. Stephen. R.A.) VM partially officially corrected, light pitting from Star, otherwise good very fine (4) £600-£800

D.C.M. London Gazette 19 November 1917; citation published 6 February 1918:
‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. When the battery position was subjected to an intense bombardment he sent his men to take cover on a flank and himself remained alone on duty in the control post. All his wires were blown to pieces, but he re-established communication with the Observation Post under most intense artillery fire. Though blown over by shells several times he went out after the shelling had abated and mended the wires for ten hours. He set a magnificent example of courage and devotion to duty.’

John Stephen served with the Highland Brigade of the Royal Field Artillery during the Great War on the Western Front from 2 May 1915, and was Mentioned in Despatches (London Gazette 1 January 1916) in addition to being awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal.