Orders, Decorations and Medals

Three: Private Arthur Chapman, 2nd Battalion, Suffolk Regiment, who was taken prisoner of war

1914 Star, with clasp (6282 Pte., 2/Suff. R.); British War and Victory Medals (6282 Pte., Suff. R.) nearly very fine or better (3) £140-180

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Fine Collection of Medals to 'Old Contemptibles' formed by Major Bob Keay.

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Arthur Chapman served in France and Flanders with the B.E.F. from 15 August 1914 and was taken prisoner of war and held at Doeberitz P.O.W. Camp in Germany. Sold with copy m.i.c. and page from Suffolk Regiment Gazette confirming.

When Britain entered the war on August 4th 1914, the Second Battalion, Suffolk Regiment was immediately mobilised and sent to France with the British Expeditionary Force. It was soon in action against the advancing Germans near Mons and on 25 August at Le Cateau the decision was taken to stand and fight, and along with other Battalions of 14 Brigade acting as rearguard of 5 Division they fought against overwhelming forces for nine hours before being overrun. The losses were over 700 men.