GV Distinguished Conduct Medal to 52065 L / Cpl E C Gwilt 2/5 Lan Fus / for Givenchy 1918

Correctly impressed - 52065 L. Cpl E.C.Gwilt. 2/5 Lan :Fus:

Condition VF

Ernest Cecil Gwilt was born in Herefordshire in 1894, a Grocer in civilian life. 

During the Great War, Gwilt served with the 2/5th Lancashire Fusiliers on the Western Front. He was also entitled to a pair. The battalion war diaries for the August 24th 1918 noted;

‘The consolidation was soon tested, for at 9:30 a.m. on August 24th, the Germans attempted a counter-attack with two companies, which were soon shattered by artillery, Lewis-gun, and rifle fire. The work of putting the new line in order was thereafter continued steadily during the day, though under heavy fire, Lance-Corporal C. E. Gwilt being particularly useful in methodically carrying out anti-gas measures for twelve hours without rest, preventing many casualties from this cause.’

The DCM was announced in the London Gazette on 15th November 1918:

 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. As soon as the objectives had been gained in an attack, he went forward and carried out anti-gas measures under heavy fire. He worked continuously for over 12 hours and prevented many casualties by his skill and energy.’

Ernest survived the war and passed way in 1951.