William Wheatley – East Surrey 1/6 – French medals?

[Scott7114]

I am researching the background to this soldier. He served in the 1/6th East Surrey Regiment and appears to have been awarded a French? medal – Medaille Militaire on 20/12/1915. I think he was a signaller and the action was at Hatum, Aden? Does anyone know anything about this soldier? Or any reason why he would have been awarded a French medal and not a British medal?

[HarryBettsMCDCM]

In 1914~15,apart from the DCM & MiD{& the MSM for non combattant Gallantry & Meritorious/Distinguished/Valuable Service,not in the face of the enemy},there was not really any awards that OR's could win,French & Belgian awards were granted on an "inter~alia" basis,to supplement the honours available,lower down the scale,he may have been awarded it for an Action which involved his assisting the French,but just as likely never went anywhere near a Frenchman,It should be promulgated in the London Gazette.