Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

The Great War trio to Company Sergeant Major F. W. Waller, who was one of thirteen members of his family to serve with the Duke of Wellington's Regiment (33rd and 76th), and who was killed in action at Suvla Bay, Gallipoli

1914-15 Star (3-11187 C.S. Mjr. F. W. Waller, W. Rid. R.); British War and Victory Medals (3-11187 W.O. Cl. 2 F. W. Waller. W. Rid. R.) nearly extremely fine (3) £300-£360

Provenance: Buckland Dix and Wood, September 1994.

Frederick Waller was a member of one of the most remarkable families connected with the 'Duke's'. One of thirteen members of his family to serve in the regiment, their combined services totalled more than 190 years. The following biography is taken from the 'Iron Duke' (Vol. 10, 1934) a photocopy of which is sold with the lot giving full details of the Waller family:

'Sgt.-Major Frederick W. Waller enlisted at the age of 13 in 1890 and joined the 1st Battalion. He saw service with them in the South African War, 1899-1902, being present at the Relief of Kimberley, Paardeberg and Driefontein. He was promoted to the rank of colour-sergeant in the 1st Battalion, and in 1907 was attacked to the Lucknow Volunteer Rifles as sergeant-major, being discharged in 1911 with 21 years' service. On the outbreak of the Great War he re-enlisted in the Regiment, and served with the 8th Battalion as company sergeant-major, proceeding with them to the Dardanelles in 1915. He was killed in action at Suvla Bay while giving instructions to his men on the evening of 7th August, 1915. He was 38 years of age, and left a widow and seven children, one of whom is now a 2nd Lieutenant in the 2nd Battalion, while his three daughters are all schoolmistresses, the eldest being an Army schoolmistress, serving at present with the Royal Irish Fusiliers in India.'

For the recipient’s son’s medals, see Lot 16.