Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Five: Captain Francis Fraser, South African Field Telegraphs and Postal Corps, late Commandant Natal Telegraph Corps

Natal 1906, 1 clasp, 1906 (Cpt. F. Fraser. Natal Telegraph Corps); 1914-15 Star (Capt. F. Fraser S.A.F.T. & P.C.); British War and Bilingual Victory Medals (Capt. F. Fraser.); Colonial Auxiliary Forces L.S. & G.C., G.V.R. (Capt. F. Fraser. Natal Tel: Corps.) light contact marks, otherwise good very fine and rare (5) £600-£800

The Natal Telegraph Corps was commanded by Captain Francis Fraser from 1903 to 1915. With a peace establishment of 50, organised in two troops, it was increased at the outbreak of the Zulu Rebellion by personnel of the postal and telegraph services. The corps received special commendation for their work during the rebellion and two men of this small unit received the M.S.M. for services during the campaign. After 1907, the Corps provided signalling instructors for the Militia regiments, who were given commissioned rank.

Captain Fraser was mobilised as Divisional Signalling Officer with the South African Field Telegraph and Postal Corps on 21 August 1914, and served with the Central Force from 3 October 1914 until he was discharged and demobilised on 21 July 1915. He was mentioned in despatches for distinguished service in the field in connection with the campaign in G.S.W. Africa 1914-15 (London Gazette 22 August 1918). He was also awarded the Colonial Auxiliary Forces Decoration, announced in the Cape Gazette of 14 May 1920.