LONG Arthur James 2/Lt

The user is advised to read the FINDING AIDS document linked to this catalogue for an explanation of the method by which this record has been created and any terms used.

Surname: LONG;

Forename(s): Arthur James;

Initials: AJ;

Rank: 2/Lt;

Born in: Faversham;

Enlisted in: St Pauls, London;

Enlistment Date: 20-Dec-1915;

Previous Number: 1830;

Previous Battalion: 31 of;

Previous Regiment: R Fus;

Date of transfer to MGC: 16-Feb-1916;

MGC Branch: Infantry;

MGC Unit: 62 Bn;

Date abroad: 01-Apr-1916;

Theatre of War: 1;

Awarded: MC;

Gallantry Notes: In command of a machine gun section throughout operations he took up a position under heavy shell fire ffrom which he was able to afford covering fire to the advancing infantry and later, after a daring reconnaisance, he moved his guns forward to consolidate the objective won. During a counter attack he kept his guns in action in spite of heavy enemy barrage using his spare gunners as riflemen to fill gaps in the infantry line.;

Other Data: WO339/81368 - previously 10077 MGC 28 Coy BEF (which see)
to No 1 MGC Cadet School, Bisley, 1/1/1917 - Commsd LG 10/5/1917
NOK: mother, Mrs Elizabeth Long, The Chantry, Hatch End, Middx
Served New 8 Bn in 1919
Died 9/9/1922
Went to W Africa on demobilisation, as a Trading Agent, returned August 1922
Stated served in the Calabar Land Cgt (Nigerian Volunteer Force) August 1914 - Nov 1915
un-named MC offered DNW 1/3/2017:
Military Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued, in case of issue, extremely fine £400-500
Footnote
M.C. London Gazette 11 January 1919.

The recommendation states: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty between the 24th and 31st August 1918. This officer commanded a machine gun section throughout the operations. On the 30th August he took up a position with his guns under heavy shell fire, from which he was able to afford covering fire to the advancing infantry and later after a personal daring reconnaissance moving his guns forward to consolidate the objective won. On the 31st August during an enemy counter-attack he kept his guns in action in spite of heavy enemy barrage, inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy and materially assisting in the repulse of the enemy, using his spare gunners as riflemen to fill gaps in the infantry line.
Throughout the operations this officer kept three German machine guns in action in addition to his own. By his able and lucid reports he kept his Company Commander constantly informed as to the situation which at times was most obscure. The able tactical handling of his section, his reckless gallantry, and cool, firm courage under very trying conditions, prove him to be an officer of high order and great promise. His conduct was an inspiring example to his men.’

Arthur James Long was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the Machine Gun Corps on 26 April 1917, and served with them during the Great War on the Western Front. He was subsequently employed with the African and Eastern Trade Corporation, Liverpool.

Sold together with the Commission Document appointing the recipient a Second Lieutenant in the Machine Gun Corps, dated 5 May 1917; a letter to the recipient’s mother detailing the award of the Military Cross; the recipient’s contract of employment with the African and Eastern Trade Corporation; and two photographs.;

Other Notes: MC: LG 11/1/1919 T/2Lt;

END OF RECORD.

Users to read Finding Aids page. Further information may contain GDPR-protected information and not be released. Appointment required for access or paid research.