Medals & Coins, Arms & Armour - 17th May 2023
Lot 59
The Distinguished Conduct Medal (King's African...
Estimate £1,000 - £1,500 | Hammer £2000
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Description
The Distinguished Conduct Medal (King's African Rifles) to Sergeant Karonga, 1/1 King's African Rifles, George V (34 .SJT KARONGA. I/I K.A.R.), extremely fine, reverse lightly toned.
(36.44mm diameter)
The collection of Major R. R. Pelham Burn, M.C., T.D.
Ex. A.H. Baldwin & Sons, 18th September 1946
D.C.M.: E.A. Force GRO No 1284 31/12/1917; Nyasaland Gazette 31/01/1918
Sergeant Karonga served in the Operations in Somaliland 1908-10 as a Corporal. His Great War service commenced 17/08/1914. His D.C.M. deed took place during fighting near Mponda in Nyasaland 08/09/1917:
"At MIRANDA [sic] on 8th Sept. 1917, Both these NCOs (with 31 Sgt. Kumisa) behaved in a most gallant manner, covering the retirement of wounded when compelled to fall back before a strong counterattack. Their officer was wounded and there were a number of other casualties. Sgt. Karonga was wounded but remained in the firing line and took command of his platoon, assisted by Sgt. Kumisa."