CSM Peter Smith, South Lancs. DCM,MM

[Drummy]

Does anyone have any information on CSM Peter Smith (2644, later 200855) of the 1st/4th South Lancs. He was awarded the DCM, MM during the great war. Any information about him, and how/where/when he was awarded the DCM & MM would be very much appreciated. Many thanks Neil.

[Guest Hill 60]

200855 Sjt Smith, P. London Gazette date 21/10/18

This info comes from the book 'Recipients of the Distinguished Conduct Medal 1914-1920. by R. W. Walker. Hope this is of some use.

[Guest Michael Orr]

According to the regimental history (Capt H. Whalley-Kelly "Ich Dien" The Prince of Wales Volunteers [south Lancahshire] 1914-1934 - Aldershot 1934), Sgt P. Smith's DCM was gazetted on 3/6/18 & his MM on 7/10/18. He is not mentioned by name in the chapter on the battalion.

If you can get to Liverpool, the Records Office in the Central Library has the papers of Lt Gen Sir Hugh Jeudwine, GOC of 55th Division in which 1/4th S Lancs were the pioneer battalion (Reference 316 FIF). One section of these contains many of the original recomendations for awards to members of the division. They are not indexed & you just have to work through the files, but you might strike lucky.

The War Dairy of the battalion from January 1916 is WO95/2917 in the PRO at Kew.

Michael Orr

[charlesmessenger]

Further to Michael Orr's posting I have some extracts from the AA&QMG 55th Division's papers on recommendations from the Jeudwine Papers. Sgt Smith is listed for a recommendation for a DCM in the Birthday Honours 1918, which he obviously received. These awards did not usually attract a citation, unlike those awarded outside the New Year and Birthday Honours.

Charles M