Pte J Craig, Royal Irish Rifles

[dave.ib_walker@ntlworld.co]

A rugby mate has a Pip, Squeak and Wilfred trio belonging to his grandfather, Private Joe Craig. Family recollections suggest he joined at fourteen in 1914 - partly to escape a difficult home life. It's believed he worked with horses, possibly delivering ammunition. Beyond that, nothing is known about Joe's war service and the family have been unable to find anything out through the usual internet channels. Although my interests usually lie in uniforms, weapons and equipment, I thought a Forum pal may be able to offer some insight! The reverse of the 14-15 star shows the details "12-17490 Pte. J.Craig. R. Ir. Rif." (pictured).

 

Any assistance gratefully received.

 

Dave

[TullochArd]

3.10.15 France which fits the 14/15 Star.  I believe the 12/ indicates 12th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles but will happily be corrected on that. Also 80522 Pte Royal Defence Corps (formed in March 1916).  All from the MIC.

 

RDC - https://www.longlongtrail.co.uk/army/regiments-and-corps/the-royal-defence-corps-of-1916-1918/

 

Edited 12 July , 2020 by TullochArd

[sotonmate]

First landed with 36 Division in France on 3 Oct 1915. 12 Battalion RIRifles were with 108 Infantry Brigade. Medal Roll shows that Joseph served with this unit until 18 Nov 1917 when he was transferred to the RDC. This just might have been due to fitness issues, maybe wounded or sick and recovered in less that A1 condition. There may be some record to help in this matter. 1916 Somme and 1917 Messines and Third Ypres may have been instrumental in a transfer.

Note: there are two records in Forces War Records for this soldier, one under each of his service numbers. A Subscription is required. There may be a little more help there, but it also may just be medal records, but worth a look.

Edited 12 July , 2020 by sotonmate

[dave.ib_walker@ntlworld.co]

Very many thanks to you both for your kind responses.