TOPIC:

Hi,

The above described was born at Cleator Moor, Cumberland in 1872 and has an Ancestry UK WW1 record when he served as Pte 5211 6th Battalion Border Regiment 1914/1917. He contracted TB on active service in France and died post his discharge at Whitehaven, Cumberland. I am trying to get his grave a CWGC headstone.

He declared he was time expired 1st Border on enlistment 17th August 1914. On his pension assessment form from 1917 there is mention of his first enlistment 31st August 1891 and mobilisation 26th December 1899. The same form states he served 2 years 8 months in South Africa.

I don't have a first engagement regimental number listed on his WW1 papers so could someone have a look on the Boer War medal rolls to see if he is listed, and if so could you provide me with his medal entitlement please?

His first engagement papers may be on Findmypast? I'm presuming he was Army Reserve Class B reservist in 1899 and went out to 1st Border in South Africa as a reinforcement.

Thanks

Steve Y

Leary, appears to have served in the 1st Battalion with the number 3220, WO100/186 confirms his QSA and clasps Natal, Orange Free State and Transvaal, WO100/322 confirms his KSA, clasps and his transfer to the Army Reserve, this latter gives his name as Learey, cannot see any folio of his original papers.

Hi Frank,

Thanks very much for the information.

Border Regt No 3220 was issued in 1891 as per Paul Nixon's website so I'm happy it is James Leary record you have turned up.

I've just spent an hour in the County Records office turning up his burial register entry for CWGC.

Thanks again for your assistance.

Steve Y

Hello Steve,
Yes, that will be your man, can't see anyone else who it could be, good luck with the rest.
Regards Frank

Hi Frank,

Once again I appreciate you taking the time to assist me with your expertise.

I'll update this topic with a result from CWGC in due course.

Regards

Steve Y

Hi,

Sorry for the delay in posting.

CWGC have accepted James Leary as a WW1 casualty eligible for a CWGC headstone. His details are recorded in the UK National Book of Remembrance pending erection of the headstone which may take another 2 years.

Steve Y