Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War ‘Battle of the Somme’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant R. Snelling, 11th Battalion (Pioneers), Hampshire Regiment, for rescuing two wounded officers and two men from near the enemy’s lines at Bernafay Wood on 6 September 1916

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (15628 L. Cpl. R. Snelling. 11/Hants: R.); 1914-15 Star (15628 Pte. R. Snelling. Hamps: R.); British War and Victory Medals (15628 Sjt. R. Snelling. Hamps. R.) nearly very fine (4) £1,000-£1,400

D.C.M. London Gazette 20 October 1916:

‘For conspicuous gallantry during operations. Though severely wounded in two places, he rescued two wounded officers and two men from near the enemy’s lines, after bringing up help from his company. Then at last he allowed his own wounds to be attended to.’

Corporal Snelling’s actions are described in the Regimental History for 1916 on the Somme:

‘Command on this front had then passed to the Sixteenth Division and the 11th Hampshire, who now moved up to Bernafay Wood, were soon busy on the defences and in finding carrying parties for the 48th Brigade, now on the Division’s left, facing North towards Ginchy, an even nastier obstacle than Guillemont. The next three days gave the 11th hard work under heavy fire, digging new trenches and helping to consolidate. On September 6th Major Hazard was badly wounded when reconnoitring along with Lt. Cade. Encountering a patrol they challenged, were answered in English and coming forward were shot, Lt. Cade being killed. Major Hazard, after lying helpless in a shell hole, was eventually found by Corporal Snelling, who went back for help and, aided by Captains Stack and Thyne, brought him safely in.’

Sold with copied research including extracts from battalion war diary, regimental history, D.C.M. and Medal Index Cards.