1914/15 Star -13568 SJT C Thorne Wilts R
Condition VF ( some light pitting to the naming)
Charles Thorne was born in Tipton; he resided and enlisted in Swindon. In civilian life, he had worked as a Labourer on the Railways.
He joined the 7th Bn Wiltshire Regiment and landed in France on September 21st 1915.
The war diaries for the 7th on the April 25th 1917 state;
'On the night of 24th/April 25th the Battalion attacked O1 and O2 trenches, 12th HANTS attacked O3, 10th DEVONS PETIT COURONNE.
| Estimate: | £100 - £150 |
| Hammer price: | £420 |
'C' Company. Objective Z8 - Z10.
The Company formed up outside our wire at 2115. Liaison was established, and on the barrage lifting, the company entered the enemy trenches and drove him out after lively fighting with bombs during which serious losses were inflicted. A portion of this sector was cleared but owing to lack of co-operation on the left flank ('D' Coy being held up by the uncut wire), the company was forced, on the delivery of a vigorous enemy counter-attack, to evacuate the enemy's lines. A rally of the company was effected 50 yards from the enemy's trenches, but the attack failed owing to heavy casualties, all the Company officers and 8 senior N.C.Os being either killed or wounded. CSM THORNE, who was left in command, saw that there was nothing for it but to withdraw to our lines'
Thorne was Mentioned in Despatches on November 28th 1917. He was awarded the DCM announced in the London Gazette on February 18th 1918: 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. After all his company officers had been killed or wounded, he took command, rallying the company after heavy casualties had been sustained and keeping the men together. His pluck and determination inspired confidence, and set a very fine example at a time when it was most needed.'
The Bar to his DCM was announced after his death. The award was gazetted on March 12th 1919:
'For most conspicuous gallantry and good work during operations near Gouy from 4th to October 6th, 1918. He showed the greatest dash throughout the attack on October 4th, and, although wounded, continued to carry on, consolidating the new line. After having had his wound dressed, he returned to his company, and throughout the night, materially assisted his company commander in every way under very heavy shellfire. He set a very fine example to his company throughout the day and night under most trying circumstances.'
Charles sadly died of wounds on October 13th 1918, and was laid to rest in Honnechy British Cemetery.
