The Brett Collection of Medals to The Buffs

Army Long Service and Good Conduct Medal, E.VII.R. (8034 Bndmstr. G. W. Elvin, E. Kent Regt.) very fine £50-60

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Brett Collection of Medals to The Buffs.

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Mr. George William Elvin had a long career in the Army before going to Radley College, Abingdon, as Music Master. At the age of 11 years, he joined the band of the South Wales Borderers, and was with them for 15 years, attaining the rank of sergeant. From there he went to Kneller Hall for four years, and passed his examinations as bandmaster to the 1st Battalion, The Buffs.

Mr. Elvin served with the Buffs for 20 years, being greatly loved by the officers and men, and on leaving he received many gifts, that of the officers being a magnificent canteen of cutlery. He then went to Radley College as music master, and was connected with the O.T.C. there, endearing himself to all by reason of his kind and gentle nature. He was still there at the time of his death on 11 March 1936.

The following mention of Bandmaster Elvin is made in the Regimental History at the outbreak of war in 1914: ‘On the 12th August the battalion left Fermoy, and after a troublous journey reached Cambridge on the 19th. As everybody knows that the song of “Tipperary” was most popular at this time in the army, it may be interesting to note that it was first played by this battalion. It was arranged by Bandmaster Elvin for the band a year before and the score was lent to many other units.’