At the outbreak of the Great War in 1914 the Brimington soldier was now Company Sergeant Major of ‘D’ company 2nd Bn DLI and in September his company engaged the Germans at the battle of Troyon where he was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for rescuing a wounded officer under fire. Citation reads:
“For gallant conduct on 20th September 1914, at Troyon, valley of Aisne, when he voluntarily assisted in the rescue of a wounded officer under a heavy fire."
Charles suffered a serious gun shot wound to his hand and a injury to his eye during that battle
He received a bar to his DCM in September 1915 after yet another act of bravery - Citation reads :
"For conspicuous gallantry on the 9th August 1915, at Hooge, during the attack. Later, about 3pm, some men started to withdraw from the
vicinity of the "Stables" CSM Kent, with three others, succeeded in rallying them and leading them back to the vacated trench under persistent shell fire. In rallying these men considerable open
space had been crossed. He remained in his position until about 9.30am on the 10th August, no orders to withdraw having been received."
Charles Kent became Lieutenant and Quartermaster of the 20th (Wearsiders) Battalion DLI, ending the war as a Captain he was also awarded the Meritorious Service Medal and the Russian Cross of the Order of St. George.
He was discharged from the army in 1917 having served for 22 years, his Commanding officers report stated his '... character was exemplary ' he was ‘an.... excellent soldier in every respect - smart, sober and absolutely reliable...’
In the 1920’s he became involved in the newly formed British Legion and became treasurer of his local Durham branch, - and it was there that he was introduced to King George. It was reported in the local press that the King shook the soldiers hand warmly and was heard to remark ‘ I see you are wearing the Russian Cross of St George? I am very pleased to see you” Charles died in 1956.
Not bad for a Brimington lad !
Not Forgotten Brimington Not Forgotten Brimington