Summary

British War Medal 1914-1920 awarded to Pte. A.L.B. Hampton, service number 6, 2 /F.C. ENG. (2 Field Company Engineers), A.I.F., for service in World War I.

Aubrey Lionel Bertram Hampton, a 28-year-old fitter and turner, enlisted on 18 August 1914 (service no.18) and was made a sapper in 2 Fld Coy Engrs (2nd Field Company Engineers). He was shipped overseas on the Orvieto in 20 October 1914 (part of the Albany convoy) and served in Gallipoli and the Western Front, becoming a driver in France. He suffered illnesses such as pneumonia and 'debility', and a minor wound, but seems to have escaped major wounds during the war. In 1916 Aubrey's significant act of bravery at Pozieres let to the award of Military and Distinguished Conduct medals. In July 1917 he married Victoria Alexandria Jane Johnstone of Kensington at Southbourne, Dorset, England. Aubrey returned to Australia in October 1918 on 'special leave', and his Victoria later joined him there. He recovered from the effects of the war and went on to work as a fitter at organisations including H.V. McKay and the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission. He and Victoria had three daughters before he passed away at home, aged 50 years.

"The British War Medal 1914-1920, authorised in 1919, was awarded to eligible service personnel and civilians alike. Qualification for the award varied slightly according to service. The basic requirement for army personnel and civilians was that they either entered a theatre of war, or rendered approved service overseas between 5 August 1914 and 11 November 1918. Service in Russia in 1919 and 1920 also qualified for the award."

Obverse Description

Bare head of King George V facing left; text around, 'GEORGIVS V BRITT: OMN: REX ET IND: IMP:'; the artist's initials 'B.M.' (Bertram MacKennal) are on the neck truncation.

Reverse Description

Naked figure of St. George on horseback advancing right trampling a shield bearing an eagle design and a skull and crossbone. Above, the sun; in the background, the ocean; text around, '1914 1918'.

Edge Description

Text; '6 DVR. A.L.B. HAMPTON. 2 /F.C. ENG. A. I. F.'.

More Information