Distinguished Conduct Medal Grenadier Guards group (QV). DCM...

Estimate

£3,000 - £3,400

Distinguished Conduct Medal Grenadier Guards group (QV). DCM (Sergt Maj: J H Hall. 3/Grenr Gds 26th Mar: 1885). Egypt Medal (undated) with Suakin 1885 clasp (492 Sgt Maj J H Hall 3/Grenr Gds), Khedives Star 1884-6 stamped on the reverse lower point '492 3GG'. Small hook added to reverse of Star. Sergeant Major Hall was awarded the Regiments only DCM for this action. Presented by Queen Victoria at Windsor Castle 23/2/1886. Citation states 'Sergeant Major John Hall, Grenadier Guards, displayed great zeal, energy and coolness on all occasions. On 26th March 1885, when the square was attacked by the enemy in considerable force, Sgt Maj Hall displayed very conspicuous energy and coolness in assisting the company and section commanders to steady the men and direct their fire. He moved from place to place whenever the attack was most severe, causing steadiness and confidence around him'. At the battle of Hasheen a Daily Telegraph reporter described the Grenadiers action as follows: 'the enemy could not get within 20 yards of the bayonets. Nothing could surpass the steadiness of the Guards, they fired as coolly as on a field day. I even heard them quietly joking along the ranks up to the moment of the charge'. Born Chelsea. Light contact marks VF (3)