A superb example of a Scots Guard Sgt in the Crimea
Trio : Distinguished Conduct Medal (VR), Crimea Medal four clasps "Alma, Balaklava, Inkermann, Sebastopol" and Turkish Crimea (British issue). DCM impressed CORPL G. THOMSON. SCOTS FUSR GDS. Crimea Medal contemporary engraved capitals CORPL GEOE THOMPSON SCOTS FUSR GDE. Turkish Crimea in upright engraved capitals SGT G. THOMPSON (unofficial Crimea suspension). Note: the DCM has omitted the "P" in Thompson.
Period records show that Sgt.Thompson was recommended on the 26th March 1855 by the Officer Commanding the Royal Scots Fusilier Guards "Under the Warrant of 4th December 1854" for "Distinguished conduct in the field". The medal was sent to the Adjutant General in the Crimea on the 14th May 1855 for issue in the field.
The Scots Guards were awarded four Victoria Crosses and a number of Distinguished Conduct Medals in Heavy fighting in the Alma and Inkermann. As this DCM was awarded prior to the creation of the Victoria Cross and was issued in country, there is unfortunately no citation. One thing is for sure he would have been involved in several bayonet charges and a good deal of bloody hand to hand fighting. It even raises the question whether the original DCM winners would have been eligible for the Victoria Cross if it had been instituted at the time.
Some contact marks otherwise near VF SOLD
