Question of the Regiments recorded on medals

[Dmet]

My great uncle, William Sinclair 30331 of the 14th Warwicks was originally in the Huntingdonshire Cyclists, 1614. Is there a reason his medal is stamped Hunts Cyclists rather than Warwicks? Was it common to record the original regiment over the posted regiment?

Edited 22 June , 2020 by Dmet

[johnboy]

Yes medals normally had name and 1st regiment served with. Sometimes men were transferred to another regiment when they arrived overseas.

Edited 22 June , 2020 by johnboy

[kenf48]

A slip that accompanied the BWM and VM medal stated,

 

‘To avoid unnecessary correspondence, kindly note that the Regtl. particulars inscribed on the British War & Victory Medals are those held on first disembarkation in a theatre of war. The rank is the highest attained, PROVIDED IT WAS HELD IN A THEATRE OF WAR OR OVERSEAS PRIOR TO 11.11.18. Appointments such as L/Sgts., L/Cpl/, etc. are not inscribed on Medals, SPECIAL NOTE TO THOSE WHO SERVED IN RIFLE REGTS. 'Rifleman" is not inscribed on War Medals, "Pte." being the correct designation of this rank.'

 

The issue of the medals was administered by the Record Office appropriate to the soldier’s last unit.  They were sent out by registered post to either the address given on demobilisation, or that of the next of kin, if deceased.

[Dmet]

Many thanks for the replies. Makes sense as I suppose people could have moved around a lot.

[kenf48]

7 hours ago, Dmet said:

Many thanks for the replies. Makes sense as I suppose people could have moved around a lot.

 

Indeed they did, as a consequence thousands of  medals were returned, the authorities had to make appeals in the press to facilitate proper issue.