Canada, CEF. A First War Pair to Pte. W. Dickinson, 4th Machine Gun Battalion

A British War Medal, silver, full size, rim impressed 2403217 PTE.W.T. DICKINSON. C.M.G. BDE., original ribbon, cleaned, in near extremely fine condition. 

A Victory Medal, bronze gilt, full size, rim impressed 2403217 PTE.W.T. DICKINSON. C.M.G. BDE., original ribbon, notable gilt wear and small scratches throughout, very fine. 

The Story of the Fourth Canadian Division 1916-1919, a small 51 page booklet detailing the history of the division, printed by Gale & Polden, Aldershot. Namedi to “#2403217 Dickinson W.T. A Battery 4th Machine Gun Batt.” on the first page, visible water staining and wear around the edges, spine is partially split. 

Footnote: William Thomas Dickinson was born in Lancashire, England in October 1893. He was employed as a farmer in Lily Plain, Saskatoon, prior to enlisting in the War in Regina, on October 11, 1917. He arrived in England in February 1918, attached to the Canadian Machine Gun Depot. 

The Canadian 4th Machine Gun Battalion played a crucial role during the First World War by providing sustained firepower to support infantry operations. Formed in 1918 from the machine gun companies of the 4th Canadian Division, the battalion operated Vickers machine guns, which were capable of delivering heavy, continuous fire.

Their main duties included laying down suppressive fire during attacks, defending key positions, and conducting indirect fire missions—essentially using machine guns like artillery to harass enemy positions even when out of direct sight. During major battles such as Amiens and the Hundred Days Offensive, the 4th Machine Gun Battalion coordinated with infantry and artillery to break through German lines, protect flanks, and exploit advances. Their support was essential in maintaining pressure on the enemy and reducing Canadian casualties during offensive operations.

Private Dickinson was demobilized in 1919, returning to Canada.