Lot 4244

Description

Group of Four: Queen's South Africa Medal 1899 - one bar - Transvaal; 1914-15 Star; British War Medal 1914-18; Meritorious Service Medal (GVR). 36952 Corpl J.H.Kortright Scottish Horse on first medal, 125 Pte J.H.Kortright 4/LHRGT A.I.F. on second and third medals, 80 Cpl J.H.Kortright ANZAC Prov Corps on last medal. All medals impressed. Very fine.

John Henry Kortright. Enl.20Aug1914 RTA.15Sep1918. MSM.: LG. No.3011 01Jun1917. CG. No.169 04Oct1917. 'For devotion to duty and good services rendered as a Military Policeman'. Together with some research and newspaper clipping including a report from a Warrnambool newspaper ' A Deserter Pardoned. Warrnambool, Monday. A member of the Victorian Permanent Artillery, named J.H.Kortright, was arrested here some time ago on a charge of deserting from the defence forces in 1901. At the time of his arrest, the offender explained that he deserted because he desired to take part in the South Africa war and could see no other way by which he could succeed in getting to the front. On arrival in South Africa he joined the Scottish Horse, and was present at several battles. He was subsequently appointed to the charge of the remount depot of the Scottish Horse and at the time of his discharge was presented with testimonials of which any soldier might be proud. On returning to Victoria at the close of the war, he came to Warrnambool, where he has relatives residing, and at the time of his arrest was working on a farm. Major General Sir Edward Hutton, Officer Commanding the Commonwealth Forces, has had the case before him, and having regard to the patriotic spirit by which the man was actuated, together with the excellent testimonials he received from the military authorities in South Africa, has recommended that a should be given a free pardon. Word has now been received that this recommendation has been endorsed by the Governor-General and Kortright has accordingly regained his liberty'.