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Auction: 25112 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 122

(x) Queen's South Africa 1899-1902, 1 clasp, Elandslaagte (4734 Pte. A. George, Gordon Highrs:), good very fine and scarce as a single clasp

Ex-Fred Rockwood Collection, October 2014.

Alexander George is confirmed as having been wounded in action with the 2nd Battalion, Gordon Highlanders during the Battle of Elandslaagte on 21 October 1899. He was afterwards evacuated to England.

The unit joined Colonel Ian Hamilton's Brigade along with the Manchester Regiment and the Devonshires. He was to be wounded in the attack on the Boer defensive position on the hills above the Dundee railway. The plan was for the Manchester Regiment and Gordon Highlanders to push the enemy's centre and left up the hill and while the Devonshires drove into their right and the cavalry moved around their extreme left outflank them. This plan succeeded with the Gordons and Manchesters pushing the enemy back and the Devonshires attack hitting home while they were still reeling.

Two Gordon Highlanders won the Victoria Cross at Elandslaagte, Sergeant-Major William Robertson and Captain Meiklejohn, as did two officers of the Imperial Light Horse, Captains Robertson and Mullins. All four recipients stood out in leading their soldiers and all were severely wounded. Meiklejohn lost his right arm.

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

Sold for
£1,700

Starting price
£450