THE GREAT WAR DCM GROUP

THE GREAT WAR DCM GROUP TO BATTERY SGT MAJOR FOSTER OF THE 251 NORTHUMBRIAN BRIGADE ARTILLERY, thrice decorated for gallantry. John William Foster was pre-war territorial, with the 2nd Northumberland battery. He landed in France on 19th of April 1915. Serving in the 251st Brigade RFA, which was in heavy combat for long periods of time. Mentioned in Despatches on 18th May 1917 after the battery had been very active. Awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during a long period. He has frequently displayed the greatest courage and steadiness under heavy fire, and has set a splendid example to the men' The DCM was announced 1st January 1918, with the citation being published in April. The announcement in January suggests the award was for The Battle Passchendaele. From the citation, it seems Foster was the glue which held the men together. The Battery Sergeant Major's primary role was normally in ammunition supply, in charge of the Drivers and usually took a great interest in the welfare of the horses. Foster was again decorated with the Military Medal which was gazetted 17th June 1919, the date suggests the award was for the closing stages of the Great War. Medals correctly impressed apart from British War medal which is renamed DCM - 755005 B S MJR J W Foster A 251 /N BNBDE RFA TF MM - 755005 B S MJR J W Foster DCM RFA 1914/15 Star - 76 B S MJR J W Foster RFA British War Medal - 755005 B S MJR J W Foster DCM RGA ( Renamed - engraved) Victory Medal - 76 B S MJR J W Foster RFA Territorial Force Efficiency medal to 76 SJT J W Foster 2/NTN BNB RFA Condition - GVF