Canada, CEF. A First War DCM Group to Sjt. A.I. Fleck, 14th Battalion, CFA

A Distinguished Conduct Medal, in silver, full size, rim impressed 316020 SJT. A. I. FLACK. CAN:F.A., ornate swivel suspension, original ribbon, light contact marks, small scratches to obverse, lovely patina, extremely fine. 

A British War Medal, in silver, full size, rim impressed 316020 SJT. A. I. FLECK. C.F.A., dark marks on the obverse, in near very fine condition. 

A Victory Medal, in bronze gilt, full size, rim impressed 316020 SJT. A. I. FLECK. C.F.A., light wear, extremely fine. 

Two dog tags, in leather with original ties, each impressed 316020 SERGT FLECK A I 66 BTY P CANADIAN, worn and has residue on each, still very fine. 

Footnote:  Alex Ira Fleck was born in Hamilton, Ontario in August 1895. He was working as a bank clerk when he enlisted on February 21, 1916 with the 47th Battery. 

By September 1916, he was appointed acting sergeant with pay, while serving with the 16th battery. He was transferred to the 81st Battery on January 22, 1917, and to the 66th Brigade on March 20 of the same year. Fleck landed in France in August, 1917. He later served with the 14th Brigade. 

He was discharged due to demobilisation in June, 1919. 

The Distinguished Conduct Medal was awarded on January 1, 1919. The citation in the London Gazette reads: “For exceptional coolness under shell fire on several occasions, notably during the Arras operations. On one occasion in advancing the battery at Dury the two guns under his charge were caught in a burst of fire, one driver and four horses being wounded. He immediately cleared the wounded man and cut the horses free, bringing others to replace under most intense fire, thereby undoubtedly saving these two guns from material damage. His courage and devotion to duty have always been most marked.”

He died on April 6, 1970.