D.C.M. (GV – A/C.S.M., K.O.S.B.), B.W.M., Victory (Sjt. K.O. Sco. Bord.)
H. Pike
L.G. 1/4/1915, Acting Company Serjeant Major, 2nd battalion, King’s Own Scottish Borderers
‘For consistent gallantry in action, especially at Cuinchy on the 12th October, 1914. After all the officers of his company had been killed or wounded in the attack, and the casualties numerous, he took command and succeeded in holding the captured ground.’
Died F&F 4/2/1917
‘The Berkshire Chronicle’ April 9, 1915. (Also contains a photograph in uniform) ‘Acting Company-Serjeant-Major, H. Pike, 52632nd battalion, King’s Own Scottish Borderers, 70 Albany Road, Reading, has also received the Distinguished Conduct Medal. He has served over 21 years, and is one of seven brothers in the Army………………….’
Papers exist online joined 4th Bn. Oxfords 1895, to regular army KOSB 1895, not shown on QSA roll.
The War Diary for 12/10/1914 Recorded ‘The situation appeared to be singularly unsatisfactory. We were under orders of a French Colonel whose language we barely understood Vermelles on the right , previously held by the French, was said to be held by the French still, but subsequently proved to have been evacuated at dawn. our Frenchman reportedly “un peu de panique.” The Germans were in Vermelles.’
Served in France from 15/8/1914. The War Diary 4/2/1917 records Sgt. Pike dying whilst employed as an Instructor at the 5th Aust. DW School.
A fine 1914 award. Nicely toned, original ribbons
