BRITISH SOUTH AFRICA MEDAL 1853 TO 1st BATTALION RIFLE BRIGADE
HISTORY
The first general medal for service on the Cape frontiers was the South Africa Medal of 1853. Despite its date, it was actually awarded retrospectively for participation in one or more of three serious campaigns against local tribes – in 1835-36, 1846-47 and 1850-53. Much of the action – and there was some fierce fighting – took place in the Amatola highlands, the Perie Bush and Waterkloof area and leaders like Chiefs Sandili of the Gaika (Ngqika) and Moshoeshoe of the Basotho proved to be competent, resilient and dangerous enemies. Recipients of the medal may have served in more than one of these frontier wars but only the medal roll will confirm which.
ITEM DESCRIPTION
Correctly named to T. Packer 1st Battalion Rifle Brigade. Has edge knocks (common), ribbon replaced.