Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War ‘French theatre’ O.B.E. group of six awarded to Major C. L. Chapman, Royal Marine Brigade, late Chief Petty Officer, Collingwood Battalion, Royal Naval Division, who was a veteran of both the defence of Antwerp and Gallipoli, and subsequently served as Adjutant of 63rd (Naval) Divisional Train in France

The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, O.B.E. (Military) Officer’s 1st type breast badge, silver, hallmarks for London 1919; 1914 Star, with clasp (L.5/418. C. L. Chapman, C.P.O. R.N.V.R. Collingwood Bttn. R.N.D.); British War and Victory Medals, with M.I.D. oak leaves (Capt. C. L. Chapman R.M.); Defence Medal; Royal Naval Reserve L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue (T/Capt. C. L. Chapman, R.M.) mounted for display, generally good very fine (6) £700-£900

O.B.E. London Gazette 3 June 1919:
‘For valuable services rendered in France.’

M.I.D. London Gazette 5 July 1919 (France).

Charles Leonard Chapman was born in London in May 1885, and was employed as a Merchant’s Clerk by Messrs. Scrutton & Sons of London. He joined the London Division of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve in November 1903, and advanced to Chief Petty Officer by 1914. Chapman was posted to the Collingwood Battalion, Royal Naval Division in August 1914, and took part in the defence of Antwerp.

Leonard returned to the UK, and volunteered for service with the Royal Marines. He was granted a temporary commission as Second Lieutenant in December 1914. Following training at Blandford Camp Chapman embarked with the Royal Marine Brigade for service in Gallipoli. During his service in the latter campaign, Chapman was attached to the Royal Marine Division Train and promoted to Captain in May 1915.

Chapman subsequently served in the French theatre of war from 20 May 1916. He served as part of the 63rd (Naval) Division, and was appointed Acting Adjutant of the Divisional Train in November 1917. Chapman advanced to Major in July 1918, and was demobilised at Crystal Palace in June 1919. He served with the Home Guard during the Second War.

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