WW1. Military Medal & 1914 star Trio. Fletcher. R.F.A.

A fine 'Great War' M.M. group of four awarded to Driver H. Fletcher, 125th Battery, 29th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery

Military Medal, G.V.R. (72983 Dvr: H. Fletcher. R.F.A.); 1914 Star, with clasp (72983 Dvr: H. Fletcher. R.F.A.); British War and Victory Medals (72983 Dvr. H. Fletcher. R.A.), contact wear overall, very fine. 

M.M. London Gazette 13 March 1919.

Henry Elvin Fletcher was born at Deptford, Kent on 22 February 1896, the son of David and Elizabeth Fletcher. Moving to Lewisham while the young Fletcher was still a child, the family settled at No 5 Sunny Bank Cottages, North Cray.

Enlisting with the Royal Field Artillery at Preston on 14th April 1913 with the 22nd Battery before transferring to the 125th Battery. Fletcher entered the Great War on 23 August 1914 with this unit which formed part of the 4th Division for the entire war.

The formation saw particularly heavy action towards the end of the war notably being present for the fighting at Arras and Ypres in 1917. However, it was likely in the Hundred Days Offensive that Fletcher earned his award and during that time the Division was engaged at the Canal du Nord, the Selle and Valenciennes.

On 10th May 1919 Henry was discharged suffering from Neurasthenia, attributable to war service, his 'exemplary character' being noted. He is entitled to a Silver War Badge. (Document pictured)

Not withstanding his character reference it is noted on his service records during 1916-1917 that he was insolent to an NCO, hesitated to obey an order, and illtreated his horse. These earned him disciplinary punishments.

He returned to Civilian life as a Bricklayer. He married Laura Puddephatt and the pair moved to No 2 White Oak Bunglows, Deptford where he returned to work as a Labourer. Fletcher died on 14 March 1975 at Dartford, Kent, England; sold together with copied research including M.I.C. (Pictured) Confirmation of clasp & roses, (Pictured) and a London Gazette extract.