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Auction: 25003 - Orders, Decorations and Medals
Lot: 194

(x) The superb North-West Frontier 1919 D.S.O. pair awarded to Major N. H. Prendergast, Corps of Guides, late Northern Waziristan Militia

Distinguished Service Order, G.V.R., silver-gilt and enamel, lacking top riband bar; India General Service 1908-35, 1 clasp, Waziristan 1921-24 (Captn. N. H. Prendergast, N. W. Militia), suspension slack, very fine (2)

[M.V.O.] London Gazette 3 June 1924.

D.S.O. London Gazette 28 November 1919, the citation states:

'He has led detachments of his corps gallantly on all operations, especially on 27th May, 1919, at Miranshah, and has always shown high, soldierly qualities. The fact that practically the whole of his corps has remained loyal is chiefly due to his personal influence and power of command'

Norman Henry Prendergast was born in India on 7 November 1886, James and Edith Prendergast. He was posted to the Unattached list for service in India on 23 January 1906 and commissioned Lieutenant on 24 January 1906 with the Corps of Guides.

Serving with the Regiment on the North-West Frontier 1908 (clasp) he was serving attached to the North Waziristan Militia on the outbreak of the Great War. Advanced Captain on 24 January 1915, Prendergast was 'Mentioned' in Major-General H. O'Donnell's dispatch on the action at Spina Khaisora (London Gazette 20 March 1916, refers.):

'Lieutenant N. H. Prendergast, after escaping in most marvellous manner from a hopeless situation was given command of the flank attack and carried out his independent command with conspicuous coolness and energy. A fine young officer.'

Promoted Major on 24 January 1921, he continued to serve, being further advanced Lieutenant-Colonel on 16 January 1931. He visited Australia that same year and was engaged at Sydney, New South Wales on 26 September 1931. Prendergast retired on 15 November 1938 and ceased to be a member of the Reserve of Officers on 25 September 1944. He died at Hinton Somerset on 29 April 1950; sold together with copied research.

Subject to 5% tax on Hammer Price in addition to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium.

Estimate
£800 to £1,200

Starting price
£600