Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

The mounted group of five miniature dress medals attributed to Sick Berth Petty Officer Frederick Lee, Royal Navy, who received the rare clasp for Iraq 1919-1920

1914-15 Star; British War and Victory Medals; Naval General Service 1915-62, 1 clasp, Iraq 1919-1920; Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue, mounted as worn, extremely fine (5) £140-£180

Frederick Lee was born at Rotherhithe, London, on 4 January 1886, and was a licensed victualler before joining the Sick Berth branch of the Royal Navy in January 1906 as a probationary Sick Bert Attendant, being confirmed in that rate in the following September. He was advanced to 2nd Sick Berth Steward in October 1911, becoming Sick Berth Steward in April 1916, and Sick Berth Petty Officer in August 1920, whilst serving aboard H.M.S. Triad which ship he had joined on 1 December the previous year. Whilst serving in Triad he was one of 44 officers and ratings of the ship to be awarded the rare ‘Iraq 1919-1920’ clasp. It was one of just 129 clasps awarded in total to those who, while serving aboard H.M. Ships, were detached for service in various tenders, tugs and river craft operating within the boundaries of Iraq in the period 17 July 1919 to 17 November 1920. The 9 officers, 103 ratings and 17 Royal Marines came from the following H.M. Ships: Clio (49), Espeigle (36) and Triad (44). Whilst also serving in Triad, Lee received his L.S. & G.C. medal on 2 March 1921. He left Triad in December 1921 and served the remainder of his time ashore at Pembroke II, apart from a period aboard Repulse from July 1926 to September 1927. He was finally pensioned to shore on 7 January 1928.

For the recipient’s full sized medals, see Lot 297.