Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War ‘Western Front’ M.C. group of four awarded to Second Lieutenant W. H. Parker, Worcestershire Regiment, late Manchester Regiment, who was killed in action on 26 April 1918

Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued; 1914-15 Star (2626 Sjt. W. H. Parker. Manch: R.); British War and Victory Medals (2. Lieut. W. H. Parker.) good very fine (4) £800-£1,200

M.C. London Gazette 26 July 1918:
‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty throughout long operations. When his company commander was killed, he assumed command and maintained his position, covering the withdrawal of troops of other units with great courage and skill, inflicting heavy casualties on the advancing enemy.’

William Harold Parker attested for the Manchester Regiment and served with them during the Great War in the Gallipoli theatre of War from 24 July 1915. He was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the 3rd Battalion, Worcestershire Regiment on 30 October 1917, and was killed in action on the Western Front on 26 April 1918. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial, Belgium.

A contemporarily named Military Cross to this Officer, together with his Memorial Plaque and Scroll, is currently held by the Regimental Museum.