Summary

1914-15 Star medal awarded to Pte. Harry Watkins, service number 657, 5th battalion, A.I.F., for service in World War I.

Private Watkins was born in 1888 in Newmarket, Melbourne, He was a labourer when he joined on 28 January 1914 at South Melbourne aged 26. Beginning his service in Egypt he was then transferred to the Dardanelles in July 1915 and was injured at Anzac in August 1915. Hospitalised in Egypt, Watkins then rejoined his unit in February 1916. Once again he was transferred, this time to France in June 1916, Here Watkins suffered from trench fever in May 1917. In March 1918 he was located in England prior to his return to Australia where he was discharged in August 1918.

The 1914-15 Star was authorised in 1918 to be awarded to those who saw service between 5 August 1914 and 31 December 1915 (excluding those who were eligible for the 1914 Star) - 2,350,000 were issued.

Physical Description

Bronze four point star medal 'ensigned' by a crown. Ribbon is striped in the three colours of the Empire which are shaded and watered.

Obverse Description

Four pointed star with the top point replaced by a crown with attached loop and ribbon, crossed swords project between the points of the star and at the centre, within an oak wreath, a scroll crossing the swords reads '1914-15'; at the base of the wreath is a large 'G' which encloses a 'V' (King George V).

Reverse Description

Stamped; '657 PTE. H. WATKINS. 5/BN. A.I.F.'.

Edge Description

Plain.

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