The Douglas-Morris Collection of Naval Medals

Egypt and Sudan 1882-89, undated reverse, no clasp (Captn. L. R. Connolly, R.M.A.) possible small correction to unit, light pitting, otherwise very fine

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Douglas-Morris Collection of Naval Medals.

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Laurence Connolly was born in 1852 and joined as a Temporary Lieutenant R.M.A. on 18 February 1871 to study at the Royal Naval College until 9 October 1872, when he was confirmed as a Lieutenant on 17 October 1872. Served aboard H.M. Ships LORD WARDEN and HERCULES, Flag Ships in the Mediterranean (1874-75), and AGINCOURT and MINOTAUR, Flag Ships of the Channel Squadron (1875-77). Whilst serving aboard THUNDERER (1879-80) he suffered an injury on 5 March 1880, when his left hand was caught in the chain and block of the forward shell hoist whilst at General Quarters. Three fingers and a portion of his right hand were amputated, with only his thumb and first forefinger being saved, for which “hurt” he was awarded nine months full pay as compensation. He was promoted to Captain R.M.A. on 25 September 1880. On 10 February 1884 he took passage in the S.S. POONAH to the Mediterranean, where he was posted ashore at Fort Euryalus on 11 May to the R.M. Battalion, Suakin, to serve with it until 12 June 1884 earning his Egypt award, but was invalided at this time for “debility” and granted six weeks sick leave. He then served aboard AGAMEMNON (1884-85) and DREADNOUGHT (1885-87), prior to promotion to Major R.M.A. on 7 May 1890, and Paymaster R.M.A. on 21 May 1895. Retired as unfit for Active Service on 3 June 1897, and died on 10 February 1910.