Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 6 clasps, Cape Colony, Tugela Heights, Orange Free State, Relief of Ladysmith, Laing’s Nek, Belfast, unofficial rivets between fifth and sixth clasps and top retaining rod (13314 Bomb C. S. Secker, A,B, R.H.A.) very fine £100-£140

Charles Smith Secker was born at Old Buckenham, Norfolk, on 17 May 1875. A groom, he served in India with “H” Battery from 14 October 1897, before transferring to “A” Battery on 3 January 1900 and arriving in Natal shortly thereafter. The Battery landed in time to assist at Vaal Krantz from 5-7 February 1900 and in operations leading to the Relief of Ladysmith, including the shelling of Boer positions around the town. It further accompanied General Buller in his northern advance, rendering excellent service at Laing’s Nek, Alleman’s Nek, Bergendal and other minor actions. In the Paardeplatz-Lyndenburg district, “A” Battery witnessed heavy fighting and recorded many losses; of 126 officers and men on the medal roll, 11 were killed or wounded. Returned home and reverted to Gunner for misconduct on 21 January 1901, Secker was discharged to reserve on 20 January 1903.

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