The Tom Gustard Collection of Medals & Militaria and to the 21st Lancers

Khedive’s Sudan 1896-1908, 1 clasp, Khartoum (2266 S.S.M. G. Veysey, 21st Lrs.) contemporary re-engraved naming other than ‘21st Lrs.’, most probably as a result of mispelling of “Veysey’, edge bruising, otherwise very fine £300-350

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Tom Gustard Collection of Medals & Militaria and to the 21st Lancers.

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George Veysey, who enlisted in the 21st Hussars at Cahir in November 1883, was Squadron Sergeant-Major of No. 2 Troop, ‘B’ Squadron, in the famous charge at Omdurman, during which he was wounded - he appears in a pen and ink drawing by the war correspondent W. T. Maude, which depicts Lieutenant the Hon. R. H. L. J. de Montmorency, V.C., rallying the Troop after the famous charge, the wounded Veysey to the fore with raised sword. An old handwritten note on the reverse of this picture states:

‘When the troops were reforming after the charge, Lieutenant Montmorency saw the blood streaming down the face and chest of Sergeant-Major Vesey(sic), who had received a sword cut across his nose and cheek. He said to him, “Fall out Sergeant-Major! You are wounded!” “No, no, sir, I’m alright,” replied Vesey(sic), rolling in his saddle, and with difficulty keeping his seat. Then he turned to his Troop and roared out, “Form up No. 2. Show me the bastards! Let me get at them again!” I am glad to say that this magnificent soldier is recovering from his wounds but his face will always bear a terrible scar.’

In point of fact, as discussed by Tom Gustard in his definitive article, A Tale That Lost Nothing in the Telling (O.M.R.S. Journal, Spring 2000), a good deal of confusion exists as to the exact nature of Veysey’s wounds - and to the words spoken by him - and in conclusion the author is of the opinion that the above statement was actually attributable to the deeds of two or three different members of ‘B’ Squadron on that fateful day. Beyond dispute, however, is the fact the Squadron was heavily engaged and sustained eight fatalities and 26 wounded, in addition to winning two V.Cs and four D.C.Ms.

Veysey was also awarded the L.S. & G.C. Medal in 1902 and the Army Meritorious Service Medal in October 1939 - he was discharged in Dublin in the former year; the Medal is mounted for display with a copied image of W. T. Maude’s pen and ink drawing and explanatory panel.