Iron Cross, First Class, 1914 : J.V. Solomon 25th Battalion

German Iron Cross, First Class, unnamed as issued. Lacks certificate of issue.

The Iron Cross (in First, Second and Grand Cross Classes) was first introduced by Kaiser Friedrich Wilhelm III of Prussia in 1813, as a special gallantry award for the duration of the war then being waged with France. Following this precedent, successive leaders of Prussia, and later of the unified German state, reinstituted the award in time of war. The Iron Cross 1813 was succeeded by the Iron Cross 1870 (Franco-Prussian War), the Iron Cross 1914 (First World War) and the Iron Cross 1939 (Second World War). All versions feature the original date of institution '1813' on the reverse lower arm, with the later date of introduction on the obverse lower arm. This is the First World War version, recovered in France by 2870 Private James Varcoe Solomon. Born in Cornwell, England, he later emigrated to Australia and enlisted on 21 July 1915 in the 6th Reinforcements of 25 Battalion, AIF. He also served in 9 Battalion, AIF. Solomon returned to Australia on 12 April 1919. He had been awarded the Military Medal on 18 September 1918 at Villeret, France. The recommendation for the award reads, 'At VILLERET on the 18th. September 1918, Pte. SOLOMON while out on a daylight patrol, located an enemy sniper who was inflicting casualties on the front line garrison. On his own initiative, he crawled along and engaged the sniper and killed him. Continuing further he came in contact with three of the enemy who were about to place a machine gun into position. He engaged the crew, killing them all, and bringing the gun back with him. Early in the advance, this soldier was slightly wounded, but carried on volunteering for all work which required great personal courage. The behaviour of this soldier coupled with his great adaptability to all circumstances was an inspiration to all ranks '. It is possible this Iron Cross was souvenired by Solomon during this action. Solomon died in 1920 from the effects of gassing.