The Alan Cathery Collection of Medals to The Buffs, the East Kent Regiment

A Great War ‘German Spring Offensive 1918’ M.C. group of four awarded to Captain E. V. Morse, 7th Battalion, East Kent Regiment, who was killed in action at Le Selle in October 1918

Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued; 1914-15 Star (2. Lieut… Morse. E. Kent. R.) attempted obliteration to name but all except initials legible; British War and Victory Medals (Capt. E. V. Morse.) good very fine (4) £800-£1,000

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Alan Cathery Collection of Medals to The Buffs, the East Kent Regiment.

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M.C. London Gazette 16 September 1918:
‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty whilst in command of his platoon, and later in command of his company. Though practically surrounded he maintained his position against enemy attacks throughout the day. When obliged to withdraw, he withdrew his company skilfully. He displayed great coolness and energy.’

Eric Victor Morse won the M.C. with the 7th Battalion during the great German offensive, at Vendeuil (St Quentin) on 21-22 March 1918. Under-strength (only 500 men) and defending a front of over 4000 yards, platoons were surrounded in thick fog, with visibility sometimes down to 20 yards. Between 21st-26th casualties amongst the officers were 1 killed, 5 wounded and 11 missing; and men, 17 killed, 108 wounded and 410 missing, many of whom became prisoners of war.

Captain Morse was killed in action at the battle of Le Selle on 23 October 1918. At 5 am on the 23rd, the battalion moved in artillery formation towards the forming up line. Before this was reached the leading companies came under heavy machine-gun fire from the right flank, the brigade in front having only established the line of the first objective. This was overcome by air attacks. “D” company on the left cleverly outmanoeuvred and captured a battery of guns, but soon afterwards Captain Morse was killed.

Aged 26, he is buried in Romeries Communal Cemetery Extension.

Sold with copied portrait photograph and copied extracts of letters from a family memorial book.