Previous Lot Next Lot

Auction: 23111 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 912

(x) A Great War M.C. group of four awarded to Captain A. MacDonald, Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, formerly Regimental Sergeant-Major of the 8th Battalion, who was twice 'mentioned' and twice wounded during the Great War

Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued; 1914-15 Star (7734 S.Mjr. A. MacDonald A. & S. Highrs.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (Capt. A. MacDonald), very fine (4)

M.C. London Gazette 1 January 1917.

Alexander MacDonald served in France on 1 May 1915 as the Regimental Sergeant-Major of the 8th Battalion, Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders. He served in France and Belgium from 1 May 1915-30 November 1917, being commissioned 2nd Lieutenant on 10 January 1916.

MacDonald is mentioned in the War Diary as being wounded at Roclincourt on 9 April 1917 during the opening stages of the 51st Highland Division's advance at the Battle of Arras. Preceded by a four-day bombardment the aim of the attack, as for the Somme in 1916, was to break through the German line, this time in conjunction with a major French assault, the Nivelle Offensive, 50 miles to the south. The French attack was timed to start a week after the British attack allowing the latter to, hopefully, draw German troops away from the French front. Despite making significant advances the Allies were unable to achieve the breakthrough when the Battle ended on 16 May 1917.
MacDonald is again reported wounded during the Battle of Cambrai and repatriated to England and the end of his overseas war service. He was also twice 'mentioned' during the Great War (London Gazette 15 June 1916 & 15 May 1917, refers).


Subject to 5% tax on Hammer Price in addition to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium.

Sold for
£650

Starting price
£480