OAK LEAF.

[steve140968]

I'm currently researching a 1914 trio to a M30330 - T SJT F. G.WILLSON of the ASC . The trio also has an 'oak leaf'. How i understand it the oak leaf denotes 'mentioned in dispatches'. Where would i find this mention and what would it likely mention ??? Any other info would be greatly appreciated , many thanks . Steve .

[HarryBettsMCDCM]

the oak leaf denotes 'mentioned in dispatches'. Where would i find this mention and what would it likely mention ???

The Oak Leaves emblem does indeed signify a Mention in Dispatches for the Great War{A Single Oak leaf was used from the 1943}

& it is just that a mention by name[in the form of a list of names of those put forward for special mention] in the dispatches of a Commanding Officer of an army,etc;they can be found in the London Gazette & should be noted by an additional Medal index card which will give the LG Date.There are no citations for these,just the promulgation in the Gazette,{which run to many thousands}

A certificate was issued post war[1919] to those so Mentioned & the Oak Leaves Sprig Emblem was authorised in 1920,for wear on the Victory Medal,or the BWM if no Victory Medal was granted{or directly to the Coat/Tunic if no medals @ all awarded.}

[steve140968]

Thanks , i quick search on the LG site showed 150 odd mentions so i suppose a trawl through these may show up more details , but as you say possibly only a name . Steve .

[HarryBettsMCDCM]

quick search on the LG site showed 150 odd mentions so i suppose a trawl through these may show up more details

A Medal Index Card search only shows 1 Card[for Campaign Medals] so unless the Emblems are mentioned on that,or a LG date it may be one of the many "self awarded" MiDs,many men attached these to their ribbons without entitlement.Unfortunately a trawl through the 150 odd Willson listed in the LG is probably the only way you'll find him if entitled