Canada, CEF. A Military Cross to Lieutenant Gwyn, Royal Canadian Dragoons, KIA by Torpedoed RMS Leinster, October 1918

A Military Cross, GVR, in silver, unnamed as issued, worn on original ribbon, light wear and areas of discolouration, remains extremely fine. 

The Memorial Plaque, in bronze, named to DONALD STODART GWYN, full size, two paper stickers adhered to reverse, remains very fine. 

Footnote: Donald Stodart Gwyn was born in Quebec City on October 1, 1896. He was educated at Bishops College, Lennoxville and the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario. He was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the Royal Canadian Dragoons on June 25, 1915, and served with the CEF on the Western Front from 1917. He was awarded the Military Cross for an action south east of Haricourt on the Night of February 12-13, 1918. The citation, published August 24, 1918, states: “For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during a raid on the enemy's trenches. He led his men with great energy and determination and by his fearless leadership overcame the enemy’s resistance. He set a splendid example to all ranks.”

He was wounded severely on March 23, 1918. After going on leave to Ireland, he was aboard the RMS Leinster, when the ship was torpedoed by the German submarine, U-123 just outside Dublin Bay in the Irish Sea on October 10, 1918. He was among the 500 who were killed. His body was later recovered, and he was buried in Grangegorman Military Cemetery, Dublin, Ireland. 

Provenance: Previously sold by Spink & Sons (July 2024) and Noonan Mayfair (October 2021).