The Kenneth Petrie Collection, Part 1

A Great War 1915 ‘Battle of Festubert’ D.C.M. group of four awarded to Sergeant J. Mills, 2nd Battalion, Scots Guards, who was also wounded in action during the Battle, and awarded the Russian Cross of the Order of St. George, Fourth Class Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.V.R. (6548 Cpl. J. Mills. 2/Sco: Gds:); 1914 Star, with loose clasp (6548 Cpl J. Mills. S. Gds:); British War and Victory Medals (6548 Cpl. J. Mills. S. Gds.) light contact marks overall, generally very fine (4) £1,000-£1,400 --- D.C.M. London Gazette 5 August 1915: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty on the 16th May, 1915, at Festubert, when, after the German front line had been taken and many wounded were lying between the British and German trenches, he repeatedly went out during the day under a heavy shell fire, which was killing many of the wounded, and carried back wounded men until he was himself hit. His gallant conduct undoubtedly saved many lives.’ Russia, Cross of the Order of St. George, Fourth Class London Gazette 25 August 1915. James Mills enlisted in the Scots Guards in June 1906, and transferred to the Army Reserve in May 1913. He rejoined the Colours, 4 August 1914, and served with the 2nd Battalion in the French theatre of war from 7 October 1914. Mills distinguished himself during the Battle of Festubert, when the Battalion moved to ‘Hinges 12th May. Moved forward 15th and took part in attack north of Festubert. Casualties - 10 officers, 401 other ranks killed, wounded or missing.’ (British Battalions on the Western Front January to June 1915, by R. Westlake refers). Mills advanced to Sergeant, and was discharged due to sickness, 9 July 1917 (entitled to Silver War Badge). He subsequently joined the 57th A/T Regiment, 13 February 1940.