Three: 2nd Lieutenant H. C. Underhill, Ceylon Planters Rifle Corps, attached 1/6th Gurkha Rifles

1914-15 Star (2133 Pte., Ceylon Plr. R.C.); British War and Victory Medals, M.I.D. oak leaf (2 Lieut.), extremely fine, together with related Memorial Plaque to ‘Hugh Caulfield Underhill’ (4) £600-800

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, Medals to The Rifle Brigade and Affiliated Regiments from the collection formed by Michael Haines.

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Sold with original letter of condolence from the Keeper of the Privy Purse, Buckingham Palace, dated 16 December 1916.

Hugh Caulfield Underhill enlisted in the Ceylon Planters Rifle Corps in September 1914. Subsequently commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant, he was attached to the 1/6th Gurkha Rifles in Gallipoli, where he was killed in action on 8 August during the gallant assault on Hill Q. The regimental history states:

‘During the day’s fighting Captain J. S. Dallas was dangerously wounded, while 2nd Lieutenant H. C. Underhill was reported missing. 2nd Lieutenant Underhill was seen several times during that day most gallantly leading his men. There is no doubt now but that he was killed. During his only too brief military career he did splendid work for the Battalion.’

Caulfield was posthumously mentioned in despatches by General Sir Ian Hamilton, for ‘distinguished and gallant service during the operations in Gallipoli’ (London Gazette 17 March 1917 refers); unfortunately, his temporary grave was not located after the War, and he is commemorated on the Helles Memorial.