Description
A tragic Egypt Medal 1882-89, dated reverse, no clasp awarded to Private Walter Bartlett 7th Dragoon Guards, (2558. Pte. W. Bartlett. 7/Dn. Gds.) engraved naming, very fine.
Walter Bartlett was born in Chard in Somerset he was 18 years and 7 months old when he enlisted in to the 3rd Dragoon Guards at Exeter on the 4th November 1879, giving his trade as Porter. He was transferred to the 7th Dragoon Guards on the 24th July 1882 after several periods in hospital and military prison. He again was in hospital and prison for most of 1883 being discharged from the Colours on the 19th October 1883 after serving 4 years 10 months.
His Service Papers state:
Disability unfitting him for service?
Dementia
Admitted to hospital on 31st July 1883 under observation for insanity whilst a prisoner awaiting trial by Court Martial for attempted desertion. He had been found standing alone in Folkestone with his kit under his arm. He had also attempted to desert while serving in Egypt. In hospital he has been very quiet and harmless, likes to be alone and never speaks unless when spoken to. Says that at times he has an almost uncontrollable [feeling] to wander away – would do so unless watched. He suffers a good deal from sleeplessness. The disease is not the result of military service but has probably been aggravated by in-temperance.
He was discharged aged 22 without pension.
Sold with copy service papers and copy medal roll confirming medal award.
Only 115 no-clasp medals awarded to the 7th Dragoon Guards.
