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Auction: 21002 - Orders, Decorations and Medals
Lot: 225

An Immediate Mareth Line 1943 D.C.M. group of seven awarded to Private J. Hudson, Durham Light Infantry

Distinguished Conduct Medal, G.VI.R. (3660867 Pte. J. Hudson. Durh. L.I.); 1939-45 Star; Africa Star, clasp, 8th Army; Italy Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, good very fine (7)

D.C.M. London Gazette 17 June 1943. The original recommendation - upgraded from an M.M. - states:

'On the night of 21st/22nd March, during the 151 Brigade attack on the Mareth defences, Private Hudson was with “C” Company 6th D.L.I.

On sighting an enemy machine gun post he immediately led a group of men forward with fixed bayonets and charged the position. His rifle bolt was damaged and the rifle could not be fired, but he still led on this party relying solely on the use of his bayonet. He succeeded in capturing the post, killing many of the enemy personally.

This action of Private Hudson’s enabled the rest of his Company to move forward onto the position. Before leading the charge, his Company Commander had been seriously wounded beside him. He showed outstanding courage and complete disregard for his own safety.'

James Hudson, a native of Bradford, later landed on 'D-Day', 6 June 1944, with the 8th Battalion at La Riviere. He was reported missing (TNA WO417/78, refers) on 17 June 1944 as a result of the actions around Parc de la Mere and Chateau du Coridillon and was cut off with two comrades whilst in action. Showing the same fine spirit which earned his previous decoration, Hudson and his colleagues went 'on the run' for several days before re-joining the allied lines (TNA WO417/79, refers); sold together with portrait photograph and copied research.

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Sold for
£6,200

Starting price
£3000