Lot 2247

Description

Group of Four: China Medal 1900 - bar - Relief of Pekin; British War Medal 1914-18; Victory Medal 1914-19; Royal Naval Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (EVIIR). W.J.Gates L.G.Sean H.M.S. Aurora on first medal, 177870 W.J.Gates C.P.O. R.N. on second and third medals, 177870 W.J.Gates P.O. H.M.S. Cornwallis on last medal. All medals impressed. Very fine.

Joseph Walter Gates, CPO R.N. Born Shepherds Bush, London, 19Nov1879. He entered the Navy 09Jan1894 as Boy 2nd Class in H.M.S. Impregnable. On 19Nov1895 he signed up for a twelve year engagement progressing in various ships to the rate of Leading Seaman in H.M.S. Aurora, he served in this ship from 16Feb1899 to 31Mar1900. H.M.S. Aurora was on station during the China War and Gates is confirmed on the ship's roll for the China War Medal with clasp Relief of Pekin, there were 258 medals with this clasp to H.M.S. Aurora. Promoted to P.O. 2nd Class 10Mar1901 and P.O.1st Class 01Apr1903. He re-engaged for second period to completion on 19Nov1907. L.S.G.C. Medal with H.M.S. Cornwallis 07Dec1910. At the outbreak of World War I he served in H.M.S. Tiger from 03Oct1914 to 08May1916, during this time he was promoted to C.P.O. 01Mar1916. Served in H.M.S. Vivid a shore establishment intil invalided out 31Dec1918. Joined R.F.R. 31Feb1922. Together with photocopy of service record and H.M.S. Aurora roll A-H.