A wounded Luton hero awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal was Pte Arthur Brandon (pictured), 47750, the 15th Welsh Regiment. Agnes (nee Lawrence), his wife of five years, lived at 57 Cromwell Road and his parents at 848 Hitchin Road, Round Green.

The official report of his exploits read: “This runner maintained uninterrupted communication between companies and Battalion H.2. near Delville Wood during a critical period of 48 hours, when he had to continually pass through a heavy barrage of artillery and machine gun fire, exposed to incessant sniping. He also carried rations through – when practically all the ration party were wiped out – in a manner that has excited universal admiration.

“It is beyond comprehension how this runner escaped, and his courage and devotion to duty will never be forgotten by his battalion.” - E. Helms, Lieut-Colonel, Commandant 15th Battalion Welsh Regiment.

Pte Brandon also received the following letter from his commanding officer: “Dear Pte Brandon, I am delighted to inform to inform you that you have been awarded a DCM, but no-one knew your address. I am so proud of you, my lad, as it was an honour bravely earned by loyal and devoted service. Believe me to be your proud Commanding Officer, E. Helms, Lieut-Colonel.”

Pte Brandon had been shot through the neck during his exploits in October 1918 that earned him his DCM. But by November he had recovered sufficiently to be discharged from hospital and had spent ten days leave in Luton before moving on to Redcar, Yorks.

Arthur had worked as a warehouseman for Bennett hat manufacturers, of George Street and King Street, before joining up in June 1916 and being drafted to France the following December. He was demobbed in January 1919.

[The Luton News: Thursday, December 12, 1918]