Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Sutlej 1845-46, for Moodkee 1845, 2 clasps, Ferozeshuhur, Sobraon (Serjt. Charles Woodward 9th Regt.) edge bruising and contact marks, otherwise good fine £500-£600

Charles Woodward was born in the Parish of Woodchester, near Stroud, Gloucestershire, and attested for the 9th Foot at Worcester on 2 February 1826. He deserted at Belfast on 6 July 1829, and when returned (brought back) was tried for desertion and making away with Regimental Clothing, Appointments and Necessaries. He was sentenced to 400 lashes, marked with Letter ‘D’ and put under stoppages, all punishments being inflicted. He was tried for a second time at Meerut on 5 February 1841 for being drunk at Company’s Drill and for breaking his arrest, this time being reduced from Sergeant to Private. However, he was restored to Sergeant just 18 days later. He subsequently took part in the Cabul campaign of 1842 (Medal) and in the Sutlej campaign of 1845-46 (Medal with 2 clasps). He was discharged in the rank of Sergeant at Newry on 17 October 1849, in consequence of long service and impaired vision. His Character and Conduct was then described as having been ‘good and though twice tried by Courts Martial, his service and rank have in both instances been subsequently restored in consequence of mitigating circumstances and general good character.’ Sold with copied discharge papers.