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Auction: 23113 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 586

(x) A fine Great War escaper’s M.M. awarded to Private T. L. Shannon, 8th (90th Regiment Winnipeg Rifles) Battalion, Canadian Infantry - “The Little Black Devils”, who was severely wounded and captured during the 2nd Battle of Ypres - but later escaped and made a 'Home Run' to England, a feat achieved by few during the Great War

Military Medal, G.V.R. (13 Pte. T. L. Shannon, 8/Can. Inf.), minor edge bruising, good very fine

M.M. London Gazette 30 January 1920:

‘In recognition of gallant conduct and determination displayed in escaping or attempting to escape from captivity, which services have been brought to notice in accordance with the terms of Army Order 193 of 1919. To be dated 5 May 1919.’

Thomas Shannon was born in Montreal on 20 January 1893. A Railway Worker by occupation, he attested for the 8th Battalion (90th Winnipeg Rifles) at Valcartier in September 1914.

Out in France with the “Little Black Devils” during the 2nd Battle of Ypres, he was wounded on 11 May 1915, suffering gunshot wounds to his right shoulder and left foot - added to which, on 22 June 1915, he was listed as ‘Previously reported wounded, now officially reported wounded & Prisoner of War at Paderborn’. Moreover, Shannon was was listed as ‘now escaped’ on 28 July 1918, and duly awarded the M.M. He was discharged medically unfit at Winnipeg in November 1918, with this Medical History giving more details on the wound:

'Has a scar on the right leg outer side, about five inches above the ankle, 2 inches long and 1 1/2 inches wide. After walking for 1/2 hour has tired feeling, and dull aching pain...Has a fracture of the os calcis bone with displacement of the bone. All movements of ankle joint are normal, but cannot walk with a light boot. Has to have a special heavy boot made. Two scars on scapula of right shoulder about 4 inches apart.'

Sold together with copied service record that confirms active service in France and Belgium for three months, and 39 months as a P.O.W. in Germany.

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

Sold for
£750

Starting price
£320