bigjarofwasps

Hi, I caught site of a newspaper front page, which had a head line of Police Hero wins GC. Has anyone got any more details? BJOW.

Information has come to light, that Gleave may have served in the Great War, can anyone confirm this for me. Would his service papers for this period be linked to his Boer War papers or would they have been seperate?

A Brief History The First Sovereign The gold sovereign came into existence in 1489 under King Henry VII The pound sterling had been a unit of account for centuries, as had the mark. Now for the first time a coin denomination was issued with a value of one pound sterling. The obverse design showed the King seated facing on a throne, a very majestic image. It is from this image of the monarch or sovereign that the new coin gained its name - the sovereign. The reverse type is a shield on a large double Tudor rose. This first sovereign occurs with a number of minor type variations all of which are rare, currently cataloguing from ?7000 upwards. Sovereigns were then struck for Henry VIII, and for most monarchs until the first coinage of James I. Unites and Guineas From James' second coinage, the sovereign was discontinued in favour of the "unite", also valued at one pound. The unite continued into the reign of Charles I, The Commonwealth, and the early hammered coinage of Charles II. With the introduction of regular machine made "milled" coinage under Charles II, the guinea was introduced, with a value of twenty one shillings, and this continued to be the main gold coin until 1813 under George III. The Modern Sovereign In1816, there was a major change in the British coinage, powered by the Industrial Revolution. The Royal Mint moved from The Tower of London to new premises on nearby Tower Hill, and acquired powerful new steam powered coining presses designed by Matthew Boulton and James Watt. the modern sovereign was born! A new reverse design was introduced featuring Saint George slaying a dragon, designed by a brilliant young Italian engraver, Benedetto Pistrucci. This beautiful classic design remains on our gold sovereigns today, almost two hundred years later, and for most of its life must have been one of the worlds most widely recognised coins. Gold Gives Way To Paper During the first world war, Britain needed gold bullion to finance the war effort. Banknotes were introduced into regular circulation, and within a few years, the gold sovereign ceased to be used in everyday transactions. Production at the Royal Mint stopped in 1917, although some were minted again in 1925. The branch mints continued to produce sovereigns, Ottawa in Canada until 1919, Bombay in India in 1918, Sydney Australia until 1926, Melbourne and Perth Australia until 1931, and Pretoria South Africa until 1932. No further sovereigns were then issued for circulation until 1957, although sovereigns were included in the George VI proof set of 1937 which was available for collectors, and sovereigns were also minted but not issued for Edward VIII in 1937, and for Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. Production Restarted From 1957, bullion sovereigns were issued almost every year until 1968, then not until 1974 when regular production was restarted. In 1979, a proof version was issued, and this continues to the present. In 1989, a special 500 commemorative design was produced, inspired by the very first gold sovereign of 1489, showing H.M. Queen Elizabeth II seated facing on a throne. For 2002, a shield will be used us the design on the reverse for just one year to mark the Queen's Golden Jubilee. It appears likely that gold sovereigns will continue to be struck every year for sale to collectors. They have become a very popular gift item for christenings and other special occasions. Technical Specifications For modern gold sovereigns, i.e. from 1817 Diameter: 22.05 mm. Weight: 7.98 grams. Alloy: 22 carat gold = 0.917 parts per 1000. Actual gold content: 0.2354 troy ounces.

I agree! Lest we Forget

The operations in the North-Western Free State took place in the winter of 1901. (That is if he was still part of Thorne croft’s column)They were employed along the Fauresmith -Edenburg Road once again during one of Bruce Hamilton's operations. Their duty as Amery puts it was " to raid and ravage from their several centres and as far as possible to push into the 'corral ' all the Boers in the area" By the time Thorneycroft's column had moved to the North-Eastern Free State and Western Transvaal Gleave had already left for home

Operation TELIC: British Casualties and Fatalities It is with very deep regret that the Ministry of Defence has to confirm the following fatalities suffered during operations: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- An RAF C-130K Hercules crashed 30 kilometres north-west of Baghdad on 30 January 2005 at approximately 1635 local time. The aircraft was on a flight between Baghdad International Airport and Balad airbase. Ten UK Service personnel are missing believed killed; nine from the Royal Air Force and one from the Army. Their repatriation to RAF Lyneham commenced on the afternoon of 7 February, being flown out from Basrah with full honours. Squadron Leader Patrick Marshall, Headquarters Strike Command (updated 1105 on 10 February with new photo) Flight Lieutenant David Stead, 47 Squadron, RAF Lyneham (updated 1020 on 2 February with photo) Flight Lieutenant Andrew Smith, 47 Squadron, RAF Lyneham (updated 1710 on 5 February with photo) Flight Lieutenant Paul Pardoel, 47 Squadron, RAF Lyneham (updated 1815 on 2 February with photo) Master Engineer Gary Nicholson, 47 Squadron, RAF Lyneham (updated 1710 on 5 February with photo) Chief Technician Richard Brown, RAF Lyneham (updated 1900 on 1 February with photo) Flight Sergeant Mark Gibson, 47 Squadron, RAF Lyneham (updated 1900 on 1 February with photo) Sergeant Robert O'Connor, RAF Lyneham (updated 1815 on 2 February with photo) Corporal David Williams, RAF Lyneham (updated 1900 on 1 February with photo) Acting Lance Corporal Steven Jones, Royal Signals (updated 1715 on 1 February with photo) The Secretary of State for Defence, the Rt Hon Geoff Hoon MP, said on 31 January: "It is with great regret that I can confirm that nine Royal Air Force personnel and one soldier are missing believed killed in yesterday's crash of an RAF C-130 Hercules in Iraq. On behalf of the Ministry of Defence and all the Armed Forces, I should like to extend my deepest sympathies to the families of these servicemen. "The aircraft was on a flight between Baghdad International Airport and Balad airbase when it crashed. UK and US forces have secured the crash site, and are now recovering the bodies, and attempting to ascertain the cause of the crash. We are aware of reports that the aircraft may have been shot down, but we are not in a position to come to any conclusions until the investigation is complete. "The deaths of these Servicemen are especially poignant on a day when Iraqis were able to enjoy the freedom of democratic elections for the first time in many years. "I can only echo the sentiment of the Prime Minister in recognising the sacrifice of these Servicemen." Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, who is the Honorary Air Commodore of RAF Lyneham, paid a private visit to the station on 1 February to express her condolences to members of 47 Squadron and the Engineering Wing, and speak with personnel who are providing support to the bereaved families. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A British soldier was found dead from a gunshot wound at Shaibah Logistic Base on 26 December 2004. Hostile action is not thought to be responsible. The Royal Military Police investigation continues, but initial inquiries do not suggest suspicious circumstances. Sergeant Paul Connolly, Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A Royal Navy senior rate died, apparently from natural causes, aboard HMS Chatham on 17 December 2004 whilst on patrol in the Gulf. It should be noted that HMS Chatham was not assigned to Operation Telic at this time, although she was deployed on operational duty in the Gulf. Acting Chief Petty Officer Simon Roger Owen -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- At 1830 local on 8 November 2004, a Warrior armoured vehicle from the Black Watch Battle Group was hit by a roadside bomb north of Camp Dogwood. The Warrior left the road, its wheels destroyed on one side, and one soldier was killed and two others injured - neither seriously. The injured men were taken by a US helicopter medevac team to a military hospital in Baghdad; and the damaged Warrior was subsequently recovered to Camp Dogwood. Private Pita Tukutukuwaqa, The Black Watch -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Three British soldiers were killed, and others injured, in a suicide car-bomb attack on a vehicle check-point within the Black Watch area of operations on 4 November 2004. An Iraqi interpreter was also killed, and eight soldiers were wounded. Sergeant Stuart Gray, The Black Watch (updated 1445 on 5 November) Private Paul Lowe, The Black Watch (updated 1220 on 8 November) Private Scott McArdle, The Black Watch (updated 1445 on 5 November) Lieutenant-Colonel James Cowan, commanding the 1st Battalion The Black Watch, said at Camp Dogwood on 5 November: "It is my sad duty to report the death of three of my soldiers. At 1300 on 4 November, a patrol from D Company, the 1st Battalion The Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment) was conducting a Vehicle Check Point in an area east of the Euphrates. At this time, a suicide bomber drove his vehicle at the soldiers, detonating the device. The troops then came under sustained mortar fire. Three soldiers and one civilian interpreter were killed, and eight soldiers wounded. Sergeant Stuart Gray, Private Paul Lowe, and Private Scott McArdle were all killed instantly, as was the patrol's interpreter, whose name cannot be released for security reasons. "For a close-knit family such as the Black Watch, this is indeed a painful blow. All three of the soldiers were our friends, but as we mourn their deaths, so we remember their lives and give thanks to their contribution to the life of our Regiment. The interpreter had been with the Black Watch since our arrival in Iraq, and had become a friend to the soldiers. He had volunteered to come north with us, and had delayed his wedding, which was to have taken place on the day of his death. Stuart Gray was a Sergeant of great experience in the Mortar Platoon; Paul Lowe was a talented drummer in the Pipes and Drums; and Scott McArdle was a rifleman in the elite Reconnaissance Platoon. We will miss them as brothers-in-arms, and extend our sympathy and love to their families. The whole of the Black Watch is saddened by this loss. But while we fell this blow most keenly, we will not be deterred from seeing our task through to a successful conclusion." Major Lindsay MacDuff, the Officer Commanding the Battalion's Rear Party at Warminster, said on 5 November: "The Black Watch has always been a close-knit family, and the news that three of our soldiers were tragically killed while serving in Iraq is keenly felt by all ranks and their families. All are left saddened by the news that we have lost three friends. "The men of the Black Watch are determined to continue with their operational tasks in Iraq. In the words from a key passage of the Regimental Collect, "We of the Black Watch will stand fast in the faith and be strong" at this time, both here with the families, and with the men on operations. "The Army and the Black Watch have a robust and coordinated welfare structure that is designed to meet the needs of those affected by the incident yesterday. We would ask the media to keep their distance and give us a chance to grieve and come to terms with our loss at what is a difficult time." -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A British soldier was found dead at a military base in Basrah on the morning of 31 October 2004. The investigation into the death is ongoing, but it is not believed to be the result of any hostile act. Staff Sergeant Denise Michelle Rose, Royal Military Police (updated at 1420 on 2 November) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A soldier from The Black Watch died, and a further three suffered minor injuries and shock, in a road traffic accident in North Babil province on 29 October 2004. Private Kevin McHale, The Black Watch (updated at 1800 on 1 November) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Two British soldiers died following the ambush of a military convoy south-west of Basrah on 28 September 2004. An armoured Land Rover was badly damaged, and as troops sought to extract the casualties, they came under small arms fire. Corporal Marc Taylor, Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers (updated at 1820 on 29 September) Gunner David Lawrence, Royal Artillery (updated at 1130 on 30 September) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A British soldier died in a road traffic accident near Al Amarah on 10 September 2004. Fusilier Stephen Jones, The Royal Welch Fusiliers -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A British soldier was killed in an exchange of fire with insurgents in Basrah on 17 August 2004. Lance Corporal Paul Thomas, The Light Infantry (updated at 1610 on 18 August) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A British soldier was killed and another seriously injured by an improvised explosive device attack in Basrah on 12 August 2004. Private Marc Ferns, The Black Watch -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A soldier was killed, and several others were injured, in an attack on British vehicles in Basrah on 9 August 2004. Private Lee O'Callaghan, Princess of Wales' Royal Regiment (updated at 0730 on 11 August) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A British soldier was killed in an accident at Al Amarah on 4 August 2004. Private Christopher Rayment, Princess of Wales' Royal Regiment -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A British airman was killed when an RAF Puma helicopter suffered an accident at Basrah International Airport on 19 July 2004. Flight Lieutenant Kristian Gover, 33 Squadron RAF (updated 1450 on 20 July) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A British soldier was killed, and two injured, in an improvised explosive device attack on British vehicles in Basrah on the morning of 28 June 2004. Fusilier Gordon Gentle, Royal Highland Fusiliers -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A British soldier was fatally injured in a vehicle accident at Shaibah Logistics Base on the morning of 12 February 2004. Corporal Richard Ivell, Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A soldier died in a tragic accident in Basrah on 31 January 2004. Sapper Robert Thomson, Royal Engineers (updated at 1730 on 2 February) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A British soldier was killed, and another injured, in a road traffic accident at Al Amarah on 21 January 2004. Rifleman Vincent Windsor, Royal Green Jackets (updated with photograph at 1545 on 23 January) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A British Serviceman died following a tragic incident on a training range near Basrah on the morning of 7 January 2004. Lance Corporal Andrew Craw, Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Two British soldiers were killed in a road traffic accident in Baghdad early on 1 January 2004. Major James Stenner, Welsh Guards Sergeant Norman Patterson, Cheshire Regiment (updated 1310 on 8 January) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A British Serviceman was killed in a road traffic accident in Basrah on 6 November. Private Ryan Thomas, Royal Regiment of Wales (updated with photograph at 1525 on 10 November) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A Royal Marines NCO was killed by hostile fire during an operation on 31 October. Corporal Ian Plank, Royal Marines -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A Territorial Army soldier died in a tragic incident on 23 September whilst serving at Shaibah near Basrah. Sergeant John Nightingale, 217 Transport Squadron (updated 1715 on 25 September) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A British soldier was killed and another wounded in an incident in Ali As Sharqi in southern Iraq on 27 August 2003. Fusilier Russell Beeston, 52nd Lowland Regiment (updated 0810 on 1 September 2003) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Three soldiers from the Royal Military Police were killed, and one seriously wounded, during an incident in central Basrah on the morning of 23 August. Major Matthew Titchener, 150 Provost Company (updated 1800 on 29 August 2003) Company Sergeant Major Colin Wall, 150 Provost Company (updated 1300 on 25 August 2003) Corporal Dewi Pritchard, 116 Provost Company (updated 0810 on 1 September 2003) The senior RMP officer serving in Basrah, Lieutenant Colonel Bill Warren, said: "I am deeply saddened by this tragic event. My thoughts, and those of the men and women of the Royal Military Police, are with the families and friends of those who have lost their lives. I hope that they will be given the space to grieve. "These soldiers have been a credit to the RMP and have made a significant contribution to the rebuilding of the local police force in the region. This incident will not deter us from our mission and we will continue to work closely with our Iraqi colleagues to seek out those responsible for this criminal act and bring them to justice." Brigadier Maurice Nugent, the Provost Marshal for the British Army and professional head of the Royal Military Police, said on 24 August: "The impact of yesterday's tragedy in Basrah, where three men of the Royal Military Police were killed, is only now beginning to be felt. The thoughts of all past and present members of the Royal Military Police are with the families. All three soldiers had young families and we will be there for them over the coming days and weeks. The RMP are one of the key players in the efforts to reform and resurrect the civil police in Iraq, and I am proud of the role played in this by Corporal Dewi Pritchard, from 116 Provost Company, West Bromwich, and Warrant Officer Colin Wall and Major Matthew Titchener, who were both from 150 Provost Company in Catterick. This essential work will continue beyond this tragedy." -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A British serviceman was killed, and two wounded, during a bomb attack on a military ambulance in Basrah on 14 August. Captain David Jones, Queen's Lancashire Regiment (updated 1610 on 19 August) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A Territorial Army soldier died on 13 August in southern Iraq. The cause of his death is under investigation but was not the result of hostile action. Private Jason Smith, 52nd Lowland Regiment (updated 1840 on 14 August) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- An Army officer collapsed and died on 18 July in southern Iraq. Captain James Linton, 40 Field Regiment, Royal Artillery (updated 1630 on 23 July) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Six Royal Military Policemen were killed in an incident at Al Majar Al Kabir on 24 June. The Defence Secretary, Geoff Hoon MP, updated the House of Commons on 2 July on the information available concerning this incident, and another in the same area which resulted in Service personnel sustaining wounds. The six Royal Military Policemen who died were: Sergeant Simon Hamilton-Jewell, from Chessington (updated 0715 on 22 July) Corporal Russell Aston, from Swadlincote (updated 1830 on 25 June) Corporal Paul Long, from Colchester (updated 1515 on 4 July) Corporal Simon Miller, from Washington, Tyne & Wear (updated 0030 on 29 June) Lance-Corporal Benjamin Hyde, from Northallerton (updated 1715 on 25 June) Lance-Corporal Thomas Keys, from Bala (updated 1540 on 7 July) The commanding officer of 156 Provost Company, Major Bryn Parry-Jones, said: The loss of six soldiers from such a small, tight-knit unit as 156 Provost Company clearly comes as a dreadful shock to us all, not only the friends and families of those killed, but also all those in the Royal Military Police who knew and worked with them. All these men were highly professional Soldiers and Policemen. Their deaths in action underlines the challenging and difficult operations that the RMP are asked to undertake both in peace and times of conflict. From the oldest, aged 41, to the youngest, aged 20, these soldiers had between them a wealth of operational experience and distinguished service. You will understand that the circumstances surrounding this dreadful incident are still being investigated. At this time, our priority is giving all the support we can to the families and friends who are having to cope with the loss of loved ones. We ask our men and women to risk the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their country, and it is the sad truth that sometimes that sacrifice comes to pass. All six soldiers were extremely popular and well liked within the unit and they will be sadly missed by all of us. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A civilian member of the Defence Fire Service died in hospital in the UK on 22 May, having fallen ill in the Gulf. Mr Leonard Harvey -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- An RAF Policeman died in Kuwait on 19 May, believed to be from natural causes. Corporal David Shepherd -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- An RAF Regiment Gunner died in hospital in the UK on 8 May, following injuries sustained in a traffic accident in Iraq. Gunner Duncan Pritchard -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A soldier from 3rd Battalion, The Parachute Regiment, died in an accident in Iraq on 6 May. Private Andrew Kelly, from Tavistock -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A British soldier was killed in an explosion in southern Iraq on 30 April. Lance Corporal James McCue, 7 Air Assault Battalion, REME -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A soldier was killed in action in Basrah on 6 April. Fusilier Kelan Turrington, Royal Regiment of Fusiliers In a separate incident, two other soldiers were killed in action in Basrah later the same day. Lance Corporal Ian Malone Piper Christopher Muzvuru -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A soldier was killed in an accident involving a light armoured vehicle on 1 April. An officer died in hospital in the UK on 22 April from injuries sustained in the accident. Lance Corporal Karl Shearer, Household Cavalry Regiment Lieutenant Alexander Tweedie, Household Cavalry Regiment -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A soldier was killed in southern Iraq on 31 March during an explosive ordnance disposal operation. Staff Sergeant Chris Muir, Army School of Ammunition, Royal Logistic Corps -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A soldier was killed in a road traffic accident in Kuwait on 30 March. Lance Corporal Shaun Brierley, 212 Signal Squadron, 1 (UK) Armoured Division HQ & Signal Regiment, based in Herford, Germany -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A Royal Marine was killed in action during fighting in the area of Basrah on 30 March. Marine Christopher Maddison, 9 Assault Squadron Royal Marines -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- On 30 March, a Royal Marine officer died of natural causes. Major Steve Ballard, 3 Commando Brigade, Royal Marines -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A British soldier was killed in an incident involving light armoured vehicles of D Squadron, The Blues & Royals, on 28 March. Four others were injured. The circumstances surrounding the incident are being investigated. The soldier killed was: Lance Corporal of Horse Matty Hull, Household Cavalry Regiment -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- On 25 March, two soldiers from the Queen's Royal Lancers were killed when their Challenger 2 tank was accidentally hit by another Challenger 2 during a period of multiple engagements with Iraqi enemy forces. The two men have been named as: Corporal Stephen Allbutt, from Stoke-on-Trent Trooper David Clarke, from Littleworth, Staffordshire -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- On 24 March, a soldier from 1st Battalion The Black Watch was killed in action near Al Zubayr. Lance Corporal Barry Stephen, from Perth -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A soldier was killed in action near Az Zubayr near Basrah on 24 March. Sergeant Steven Roberts, 2nd Royal Tank Regiment, from Bradford -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Two British soldiers were reported missing, later confirmed as killed, after an attack on British military vehicles in southern Iraq on 23 March. Sapper Luke Allsopp, 33 Engineer Regiment (EOD), from North London Staff Sergeant Simon Cullingworth, 33 Engineer Regiment (EOD), from Essex -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- On 23 March, an RAF GR4 Tornado aircraft from RAF Marham, which was returning from an operational mission, was engaged near the Kuwaiti border by a Patriot missile battery. Both aircrew were killed. Flight Lieutenant Kevin Barry Main, Pilot, IX (B) Squadron Flight Lieutenant David Rhys Williams, Navigator, IX (B) Squadron The Military Aircraft Accident Summary reporting the investigation of this fatal incident was published on 14 May 2004. Click here for a direct link to the MAAS report. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- At around 0130 GMT on 22 March, two Royal Navy Sea King Mk 7 Airborne Early Warning helicopters collided over the northern Arabian Gulf. There were no survivors from the six British and one US crew members aboard. The incident was not the result of enemy action. Lieutenant Philip Green RN, 849 Squadron Lieutenant Antony King RN, 849 Squadron, from Helston, Cornwall Lieutenant Marc Lawrence RN, 849 Squadron Lieutenant Philip West RN, 849 Squadron, from Budock Water, Cornwall Lieutenant James Williams RN, 849 Squadron, from Falmouth, Cornwall Lieutenant Andrew Wilson RN, 849 Squadron The Commanding Officer of 849 Squadron asked for this letter to be published in response to all the messages of condolence received: The early hours of 22 March 2003 marked a sad day in the proud history of 849 Naval Air Squadron. Two Sea King Mk 7 helicopters of 849 A Flight collided over the North Arabian Gulf, whilst conducting missions in support of coalition forces, with the loss of all seven crewmembers. As one can imagine, this tragic event has shocked and devastated everyone, not only the friends and loved ones of those involved but also of those associated in anyway with 849 Naval Air Squadron, the wider Fleet Air Arm community, and beyond. Messages of condolence, support and sympathy began arriving early Saturday morning. Since then, Culdrose and 849 Squadron have been overwhelmed by the flow of tributes that continue to arrive. These have come from all quarters and include those close to fallen comrades, fellow aviators, members of the armed forces and from the general public. The strength and understanding that these messages convey cannot be underestimated; they have been, and continue to be, of enormous support not only to the friends and family of those involved, but to those still serving on A Flight and the 849 community as a whole. It will take time to respond personally to all the tributes, but be assured that all those associated with 849 Naval Air Squadron are eternally grateful and will draw great strength from them in the coming weeks and months. Despite such horrendous losses, 849 A Flight remain in theatre and continue to execute vital missions in support of Gulf operations. The 'Eyes of the Fleet' may have dimmed briefly but they remain open, alert and ever vigilant. Finally, to our fallen comrades from 849 A Flight we say: Rest in peace in the knowledge that your professionalism, dedication and ultimate sacrifice will never go unrecognised or be forgotten. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- At around midnight GMT on 21 March, a US Marine Corps CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter crashed south of the Kuwait border with US and UK personnel aboard; there were no survivors. Eight personnel from 3 Commando Brigade died in the accident, along with four US aircrew. Colour Sergeant John Cecil, Royal Marines, from Plymouth Lance Bombardier Llywelyn Evans, 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery, from Llandudno Captain Philip Stuart Guy, Royal Marines Marine Sholto Hedenskog, Royal Marines Sergeant Les Hehir, 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery Operator Mechanic (Communications) Second Class Ian Seymour RN, 148 Commando Battery Royal Artillery Warrant Officer Second Class Mark Stratford, Royal Marines Major Jason Ward, Royal Marines

I recommend you buy your Nazi coins from Chris Perkins, at the above website, instead of ebay.

The German States: Bayern: Kreuzer 1856 Fine EUR1.50 Brunswick Wolfenbuettel: 1/12 Taler 1789 Fair EUR2.00 Hamburg: Dreiling 1851 VF+ EUR2.50 Hamburg: Schilling 1763 AF EUR4.00 Hannover: Groschen 1859 GEF EUR5.00 Lauenberg: 1/2 Dreiling 1739 Fair EUR2.00 Preussen (Prussia): 1/4 Groschen 1811A F-VF EUR4.00 Groschen 1843D Fine EUR2.50 2 1/2 Silber Groschen 1843A Fine EUR2.50 2 Mark 1913 (100yrs since Napoleonic war) UNC EUR20.00 3 Mark 1913 (100yrs since Napoleonic war) GEF EUR25.00 3 Mark 1913A VF+/NEF EUR14.00 3 Mark 1912A (Kaiser Bill) Strong VF EUR16.00 5 Mark 1875C (scarcer mint letter) Fine EUR33.00 5 Mark 1914A VF EUR28.00 Taler 1818A F/NVF pretty EUR40.00 Sachsen (Saxony...Where I live!): 5 Pfenninge 1863B Fine EUR2.00 3 Mark 1909E VF/VF+ EUR22.00 Schwarzburg Rudolstadt: 1/4 Kreuzer 1861 VF EUR4.00 Wuerttemberg: 3 Kreuzer 1810 AF EUR7.50 3 Mark 1909F VF EUR18.00 3 Mark 1910F VF EUR18.00 Deutches Reich (inc 3rd Reich): 2 Reichspfennig 1936D BU EUR10.00 5 Reichspfennig 1874C EF EUR15.00 1 Mark 1875A Fine EUR1.50 1 Mark 1875B VF EUR3.00 1 Mark 1875E VF EUR3.00 1 Mark 1875H Fine EUR1.50 1 Mark 1881D VF EUR2.00 1 Mark 1914A UNC EUR15.00 1 Mark 1914E GEF EUR9.00 1 Mark 1914J EF EUR6.00 50Pf 1921D UNC EUR1.00 50Pf 1921F UNC EUR1.00 200 Mark 1923A UNC EUR1.00 10Pf 1939A AUNC but with odd dark stain EUR4.00 1 Mark 1934D AUNC with some staining EUR2.50 1 Mark 1935J rare EF EUR40.00 2 Mark 1938E EF+ EUR3.00 2 Mark 1938E EF EUR2.50 2 Mark 1939E EF EUR3.00 2 Mark 1938A EF EUR3.00 2 Mark 1937A NEF EUR2.50 2 Mark 1937D EF EUR2.00 2 Mark 1939D EF EUR2.00 2 Mark 1939A AUNC EUR3.00 2 Mark 1939F AUNC EUR2.50 2 Mark 1938A VF EUR1.50 5 Mark 1934A EF EUR2.50 5 Mark 1934E AUNC with date either side of church EUR90.00 5 Mark 1934F VF EUR2.50 Bundesrepublik: 1Pf 1949F UNC EUR18.00 5Pf 1950F AUNC EUR3.50 10Pf 1950G AUNC EUR3.00 Mark 1966D EF EUR2.00 2 Mark 1994G UNC EUR3.00 5 Mark 1958D VF EUR3.50 5 Mark 1966D EF ?5.00 5 Mark 1968 Guttenberg Proof EUR15.00 5 Mark 1968 Raiffeisen Proof EUR15.00 10 Mark 1995F Henry Duke Bavaria and Saxony Prooflike UNC EUR7.00 10 Mark 1991A Brandenburg gate UNC EUR6.50 10 Mark 1992G Kollwitz UNC EUR7.00 I have a small selection of GDR too, but that's enough of a list for today. www.predecimal.com

Ebay is not always the answer! I have plenty of proper Nazi German coins (being actually in Germany).

The nazis never struck gold-coins. What you can find on e-bay or other auction sites are just people trying to lure money from other people, thus the "gold-coins" are not authetic.

The 5 mark coins were minted between 1934 and 1939 prior to the war and are minted in .900 silver. The coin weighs approximately 13.89 grams and has a diameter of 29mm. The Front of the coin features an eagle holding a Swastica or the "Potsdam Garrison Church" and the obverse commemorates the German Army General Paul Von Hindenburg. The 2 Mark coins were minted between 1936 and 1939 prior to the war and are minted in .635 silver. The coin weighs approximately 8 grams and has a diameter of 25mm. The Front of the coin features an eagle holding a Swastica and the obverse commemorates the German Army General Paul Von Hindenburg.

The 5 Reichsmark coin was minted between 1936-39 weights 13.9 g. diam: 29 mm. and contains 90% silver. The following letters (minting places) can be found on different years on the 5 R-mark: A 1936-39 B 1939 D 1936-39 E 1936-39 F 1936-39 G 1936-39 J 1936-39 If fakes, the forgery might have forgotten to do his/her homework and thus some coins might not apply to the above standards.

Buying Coins There are a few things to look out for when buying coins. I have found that it is best to buy the higher condition coins (Unc. to BU) as they have no real let downs. When buying lower condition coins (Fair - EF), you have to make sure that they are not damaged or diseased as this will affect its price and its overall look. When you buy your first coin, it is usually a 'willy-nilly' pick from a group of coins that appeal to you. This is a good thing as specialising in a single coin type usually takes time for you to decide what to do with your collection. When buying coins, you should look out for: Verdigris - Greenish grey discolouration, caused by oxidation. A disease that grows on coins if kept in damp and humid places. Copper is the most vulnerable, silver is more immune to verdigris, and gold takes ages before verdigris sets in. Edge damage - Dented rims, and chips on the edges. This is commonly found on British copper coins between 1797 - 1860, especially on cartwheel pennies. This is where the coin has been dropped at some time. Blistering is also a type of edge damage that is found on tin coins through corrosion. Scratches and other surface marks- A scratch across the surface of the coin can be off-putting. Some coins however can have die flaws that resemble scratches, an example of this is the 1736 I/A in Britannia farthing which has a scratch through the date that appears on every coin of this type. Streaky lustre - This is found after the coin (EF. or higher) has been badly stored so that the lustre remains look streaky and quite off-putting. Wear - Some parts of the coin have been worn down so that detail is not seeable and letters are not readable. This is usually found on coins that are Fair or below, and usually attract no interest (unless it is a rarity). This sometimes occurs as a die flaw, an example of this would be the 1902 type A farthing which has a blank patch on Britannia's breastplate. The above things are all bad and not worth buying unless you really want it. Damaged coins sell for less than perfect coins.

The new edition of this acclaimed work is now available!! Published in October 2004 The COIN YEARBOOK 2005 is the INDEPENDENT price guide and collector's handbook for the coin hobby. THE 2005 YEARBOOK IS FULLY REVISED AND UPDATED - THE PERFECT ACCESSORY AT SHOWS, WHILST BROWSING THE INTERNET OR CHECKING DEALERS LISTS. With accurate up-to-the-minute valuations for all English, Scottish, Irish and Island coins, the COIN YEARBOOK covers: * Ancient Coin Used in Britain * Hammered Coinage 1066-1663 * Milled Coinage * Modern Coinage * All included in the BLUE PAGES SECTION for easier reference. This year the BLUE PAGES themselves have been revised - gone is the blue paper that often made the photographs difficult to see and instead a blue margin on white paper indicates where the price guide starts and ends - giving much sharper images throughout. As well as the price guide there are useful sections not found in any similar publication including: A Coin Collector’s Review of the Past Year; A guide to buying on the Internet, A Comprehensive Guide to Latest Auction Prices; Storage of coins; Directories of Coin Dealers, Booksellers and Auctioneers; Guide to important Museums and Libraries; Treasure and you – a Guide to Treasure Trove and other Numismatic Law; Care of Coins; Guides to Mint Marks and Denominations of the World; A Glossary of Coin Terms; Coin Inscriptions and a host of other articles designed to help you with your hobby - all this plus the index to COIN NEWS for the past year - invaluable

Map of voyage.....

There is not a lot written about the activities of the 22nd Co but they did form part of Col Thorneycroft’s column that took part in the operations in the Free State in May-June 1901. Here they watched the line of outposts on the Modder River during one of General Bruce Hamilton’s drives where they cleared the South-western part of the Free State. Later they were also involved in similar drive in the North-western Free State and in the Western Transvaal.

WANTED BOXED ISSUED GULF WAR 1991, ISSUED SOVEREIGNS

Some of the Sovereigns.......

RMS Douro There are surely few golden coins that tell as compelling a story - steeped in the intrigue of her glamorous yet deeply tragic history - as those recovered from the wreck of the 'RMS Douro' in July 1996. After two years of arduous research and searching - following the trail of many others before him - Sverker Hallstrom finally found the elusive wreck. With the help of his partner, the salvage vessel 'Deep Sea Worker', her precious cargo was lifted up from a depth of 1, 200 feet below the ocean's surface. Her glittering treasure, which had rested undisturbed for 114 years on the muddy sea bed, was found to comprise several gold bars and a sizeable quantity of gold Sovereigns (mostly dating from the reign of Queen Victoria). History The story behind these valuable reminders of a bygone era has enchanted all who have encountered them, from treasure hunters and historians across the globe, to collectors and wistful romantics. The lavishly-fitted 'Douro' was considered the shining star of the Trans-Atlantic lines right up until her 62nd - and final - voyage between Brazil and England in 1882. Owned by the Royal Mail Steam Packet Co., the slender iron screw steamer - distinguishable by her graceful clipper bow and two brigantine rigged auxiliary masts - was built in 1865 at the shipyards of Caird and Co. on the River Clyde in Greenok, Scotland. She measured 326 feet long and 40 feet wide, with a gross tonnage of 2.824 tons. In July 1869, after servicing the West Indies run, she joined the exotic South American trade between Southampton and Buenos Aires. Her voyages took her past Lisbon, Madeira, Sao Vicente, Pernambuco, Bahia and Rio de Janeiro, and were characterized by elegant company, fine food, music and laughter. Her sheer luxuriousness was matched by her reputation for reliability and relative speed. She accommodated 253 First Class, 30 Second Class and 30 Third Class passengers, as well as 80 officers and crew. The First Class cabins were booked well in advance by an esteemed selection of passengers - from diplomats to the fashionable, champagne-drinking elite who were drawn to her comfort and plushness. Indeed, she carried such notable passengers as, in 1872, emperor Dom Pedro II of Brazil and his family, ensuring the 'Douro's' reign as the unrivalled queen of the South Atlantic. She also carried on her South American run precious cargo the dream of many a would-be treasure hunter or latter day collector. Her holds were usually filled with the finest high-value products and goods from both continents and her bullion room was kept well-stocked with specie, bar gold and Brazilian diamonds. In addition, as a contract-bound Royal Mail ship, she carried sizeable quantities of newspapers and letters. Her final Trans-Atlantic journey began smoothly enough on the return stretch to Southampton. But it will never be known for sure if the hour and a half delay she suffered on her departure from Lisbon had any bearing on the events that were to lead to her tragic demise that beautiful night of 1 April 1882. Tragedy On 31 March 1882 - after an hour and a half's delay - the 'Douro' finally departed from Lisbon at 20h30, her passengers preparing for yet another enchanting evening of romantic dining and dancing out at sea. To make up for the lost time, she sailed full steam ahead, under a fresh force 5 to 6 N-N-E wind, heading swiftly north off the west coast of Portugal. A day of sailing followed, and when night fell on April Fool's Day, she passed Cape Finesterre under a full moon. Although the night was beautiful and calm, the sea was a little rough. Most of the passengers were asleep when, at 22h45, catastrophe struck. Although the Fourth Officer had identified the light of a ship some two miles in the distance, he had been confident the Chief Officer on the bridge was keeping watch. But the Chief Officer saw the ship too late to avoid the approaching collision. Two deep gashes were gouged in the 'Douro's' starboard side when the sharp bow of the Spanish steamship Yrurac Bat plunged into her at full speed, and then again, with the force of the rebound and the regaining momentum of her engines. Her engines finally stopped, emergency procedures were immediately begun. What is clear from the many accounts gathered by the 'Douro's' researchers is that she was abandoned in a great hurry, and priority given to the well-being of her passengers rather than to saving the valuable contents of her strong room or safe. The confused and frightened passengers were rounded up from their cabins and the ensuing pandemonium on the deck, and directed to the lifeboats amidst great panic. The women and children were the first to reach safety, followed by the men. Six passengers drowned, but the survivors were later picked up by the steamer Hidalgo of Hull, and taken to La Coruna. She rapidly began to sink as tons of seawater surged through both gaps and, after a mere 30 minutes, she disappeared below the water to find her final resting place on the ocean floor. The Yrurac Bat suffered a similar fate, leaving a total of 59 passengers and crew from both vessels drowned. True to seafaring tradition, the 'Douro's' Captain Ebenezer C.Kemp, four of the Senior Officers, and the Chief and Second Engineer went down with their ship, together with her dazzling cargo of gold, silver and jewels. When the 'Douro' wreck was finally discovered, and her treasure brought to light for the first time since 1882, many years of fruitless searching had already been undertaken. However, the last chapter in the saga began in 1993 when Sverker Hallstrom began with his mission of locating and identifying a number of wrecks in the probable area where the elusive ship went down. Huge technological advances in deep sea salvaging equipment meant that the puzzle of the 'Douro's' whereabouts would finally be resolved - using state of the art sonar and ROV operations. But it was also Hallstrom's determination to find her - helped by a liberal degree of pragmatism and an open mind to risk-taking - that resulted in his eventual triumph. The Research Hallstrom was introduced to the 'Douro' by the researcher, Nigel Pickford, in 1991, and received from him a comprehensive file of information pertaining to the wreck. However, it was up to Hallstrom to do further research in order to determine a search area. It was obvious to him that his quest for more in-depth information should include looking to resources in Spain, Portugal and even Brazil. He managed to find some particularly useful material in La Coruna's "La Boz de Galicia", a newspaper established a few months prior to the 'Douro's' tragic collision (and which is still in print today). The publication stated the time that the 'Yrurac Bat' passed Sisargas, information that allowed Hallstrom to narrow down the search area considerably. He was also fortunate to befriend some of the local fisherman in the harbor where his survey vessel - the 'Scorpio' - was anchored, and who imparted valuable information known to them about the area. Trawler skippers across the world are deeply familiar with their stretch of sea, and usually have maps showing all the obstacles where they might come into trouble. With their help, he was able to establish a list (with precise Decca positions) of all the known wrecks in the area. One of the fishermen in particular, Francisco, verified the names - and sometimes the estimated age - of the wrecks that Hallstrom had already picked up on his sonar. He was also occasionally able to indicate the sizes and vague identities of some of these wrecks, which Hallstrom found to be most interesting and useful in his search. With this information at hand, Hallstrom could begin the lengthy process of locating each of these wrecks - one after the other. Their identification would be aided by means of a ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle - a tethered robot equipped with video cameras, powerful lights, a manipulator, sector-scanning sonar, a dredging pump etc). But in spite of this, locating and identifying the 'Douro' would still prove to be one of the toughest projects of his entire career. In the meantime, an agreement had been entered into with Deep Sea Worker (a joint venture between English company Blue Water Recovery and French company Louis Dreyfus), the operators of a unique drill ship of the same name. 'Deep Sea Worker' had the advantage of being able to delve into waters deeper than 300 meters, utilising the tools and technologies developed for the offshore oil drilling industry. Although they were not involved in the search and identification phase, they would enter the picture once Hallstrom had positively identified the 'Douro'. In 1993, Hallstrom began his search off the coast of Cape Finisterre using his survey ship 'Benjamin', fully equipped with satellite navigation systems, towed sonars, ROVs and the like. Many ships have suffered a similar fate to the 'Douro' along this notorious coast, and it was these Hallstrom encountered over the next two years. He mistook one such wreck - of about the same period, and in the right location - to be the 'Douro'. In an exciting instance, Hallstrom's ROV had brought the image of a ship's bell to the screen - thought to be that of the 'Douro'. However, once the bell was recovered and its grimy surface cleaned, it was clearly a case of mistaken identity. The bell belonged to the 'Gijon', a ship which had sunk after colliding with the 'Laxham' in 1884. But rather than experiencing defeat, Hallstrom was challenged to take a closer look at the other wrecks he had already found in the area. The Discovery There was one in particular which caught his attention. In spite of the potentially hazardous old fishing nets covering it, Hallstrom, from his ship, 'Scorpio', sent his ROV to take a closer look at the gutted, shapeless wreck. All that seemed to remain was a hollow heap of iron and debris; no bell or bow, and no twice-gashed starboard side with which to recognise the ship. The remains of the engines and the shafts at least enabled him to discern head from tail. Then luck came to the rescue. Someone in the control room noticed on the video screen what appeared to be a crockery plate wedged into the muddy bottom. The new ROV had been equipped for just such an occurrence, delicately using its 'arms' to scoop the plate - bearing the name of the Royal Mail Steampacket Company - into a special basket. The 'Douro' was found at last! Days later, the 'Deep Sea Worker' was engaged, bringing up a load of crockery plates, cups and milk pots all dutifully bearing the ship's name, as well as wine bottles, portholes and a magnificent pair of bronze dolphins. A great and memorable moment soon followed when, amidst the mud, the salvors laid their eyes on literally thousands of golden coins brought up from the seabed. Luck further came to the fore when it was discovered that the gold was still closely assembled and there was no scattering. Two days later, the salvage master estimated a probable - and previously unheard of - 93% recovery, which included several numbered and un-numbered gold bars. The treasure was taken to Jersey, under a fair British law, and officially declared to the appropriate authorities. A year and a day was the waiting period required under this law for the releasing of the gold, subject to other claims, by the 'Receiver of Wreck.' Four months after this period had lapsed, the treasure was auctioned in London by Christie's-owned Spink and Son, the renowned coin auctioneers. The sale was a triumph. A large quantity of the coins - among which were many extremely rare Brazilian and Portuguese coins, some dating to the 1700's - were sold. Corunna 2 April 1882 THE SINKING OF THE DOURO "The Spanish Steamer Yrurac Bat came into collision at 4 o'clock this morning with the Royal Mail Steamer Douro, near Cape Finisterre. Both vessels foundered. The Yrurac Bat lost 31 men, including her captain and pilot. About 37 of the persons on board the Douro were saved. The number of the Douro's passengers and crew that drowned were not known. The survivors have arrived here." Reuters Thus The Times London broke the news of the collision between the RMS Douro and the Spanish steamer Yrurac Bat. The Douro, built in 1865 by Caird & Co. Greenock was one of the most popular ships of the Royal Mail fleet. She was far from the fastest, but she was elegant and comfortable and was a particular favourite of the wealthy first class passengers travelling from South America to the United Kingdom via Portugal. The Douro was on her final leg of what was fated to be her last voyage, only two days from Southampton. Late in the evening of 1st April she passed the Finisterre Light having called into Lisbon. and was steaming north towards England. A passenger, Mr. Stoher, who was taking some fresh air before retiring, had spotted a light from the starboard bow. Stoher pointed out the light to Mr. Atherlev, the Fourth Officer, who identified it as a ship, but one at least two miles distant and, confident that the Chief Officer on the Bridge was keeping watch, he took no action. But the Chief Officer saw the light too late to avoid a collision, which, when it came was catastrophic. The Yrurac Bat, a Spanish passenger liner out of Corunna en route to Havanna, ploughed into the starboard side of the Douro in the area of the main mast. The impact was such that the Yrurac Bat rebounded, but the momentum of her engines immediately took her forward again and she struck the Douro a second time, in the area of the aft boat. The Douro's engines were stopped and everywhere there was pandemonium. The passengers who had been asleep, ran this way and that, none knowing to which lifeboat they should report. Further time was lost when the mechanism to detach the lifeboats from their davits jammed, and no-one had a knife to cut the boats free. The rule of women and children first was strictly adhered to. Of the six passengers The search for the Douro began in 1949 with a cryptic note written by Thomas Pickford, the project research's father. It simply read "Douro, 1882, ?53,000, Bay of Biscay". Thirty years later Nigel Pickford rediscovered the note and decided to develop the research. Ten years research into old newspaper articles, log hooks. company directors' reports. Lloyds' Registers. ships' drawings. personal records, banking records and ancient sea charts was completed before Pickford was able to put the project forward to Sverker Hallstrom. a Marine salvage specialist, as a viable salvage Opportunity in the Summer of 1992. At that time a cargo of gold had never been recovered from inside a collapsed and rusting iron hull in a depth of water approximately 1,500 feet deep. It was an extremely bold undertaking. By means of careful analysis of various conflicting statements of witnesses and survivors, combined with detailed calculations on ships' speeds, routes, times of departures etc. the initial search area of 500 square miles was reduced to 150 square miles. Any prior salvage was highly unlikely due to the water depth. So the search began. Hallstrom left the Swedish naval base of Berga in his survey vessel, the Benjamin on 4 June I 993. Equipped as a state of the art survey vessel, the yacht included side scan sonar, sector scanning sonar, a Scorpio ROV with SIT and colour cameras attached, a hydro acoustic referencing system as well as a variety of transponders. The survey continued for almost two years during which an alarming number of wrecks from the Victorian steam ship era were located. Deciding which of them was the Douro was going to prove extremely difficult. Hallstrom finally succeeded in identifying the Douro in May 1995 and negotiated a salvage agreement for the provision of Deepsea Worker and the Grab Salvage System developed by Blue Water Recoveries Limited. The Search for the Douro The search for the Douro began in 1949 with a cryptic note written by Thomas Pickford, the project research's father. It simply read "Douro, 1882, ?53,000, Bay of Biscay". Thirty years later Nigel Pickford rediscovered the note and decided to develop the research. Ten years research into old newspaper articles, log hooks. company directors' reports. Lloyds' Registers. ships' drawings. personal records, banking records and ancient sea charts was completed before Pickford was able to put the project forward to Sverker Hallstrom. a Marine salvage specialist, as a viable salvage Opportunity in the Summer of 1992. At that time a cargo of gold had never been recovered from inside a collapsed and rusting iron hull in a depth of water approximately 1,500 feet deep. It was an extremely bold undertaking. By means of careful analysis of various conflicting statements of witnesses and survivors, combined with detailed calculations on ships' speeds, routes, times of departures etc. the initial search area of 500 square miles was reduced to 150 square miles. Any prior salvage was highly unlikely due to the water depth. So the search began. Hallstrom left the Swedish naval base of Berga in his survey vessel, the Benjamin on 4 June I 993. Equipped as a state of the art survey vessel, the yacht included side scan sonar, sector scanning sonar, a Scorpio ROV with SIT and colour cameras attached, a hydro acoustic referencing system as well as a variety of transponders.The survey continued for almost two years during which an alarming number of wrecks from the Victorian steam ship era were located. Deciding which of them was the Douro was going to prove extremely difficult. Hallstrom finally succeeded in identifying the Douro in May 1995 and negotiated a salvage agreement for the provision of Deepsea Worker and the Grab Salvage System developed by Blue Water Recoveries Limited. THE SALVAGING OF THE DOURO The salvage commenced in June the same year. Due to the capabilities of the salvage spread and the power of the Grab System, the wreck was quickly cleared of the fishing nets obscuring it, like a cloud from stem to stern. The wreck lay exposed ready for the search for the gold to begin. The Blue Water Recoveries team using the deck and layout plans of similar era vessels, advised the Salvage Master of the most likely location of the bullion room. Only five days after commencing the salvage operation the Grab had recovered 98% of the bullion cargo from over 400 metres deep. The Lost Treasure of the Douro Loaded with coffee, diamonds, gold and affluent passengers, the RMS Douro was on the final leg of a 10,000-mile voyage from the trading ports in Brazil to England on April 1, 1882, when it collided with another ship and sank. Thirteen unlucky people on board the Douro and the entire cargo went down with the ship, presumably lost forever at the bottom of the Bay of Biscay in the Atlantic Ocean. Lost for over a century, but not forgotten... Disaster on the High Seas A comfortable and elegant vessel, the Royal Mail Steamer Douro was one of the most popular vessels of its day. She was a particular favorite of wealthy first class passengers traveling from South America to England via Portugal. On April 1, 1882, the Douro was on the final leg of what was fated to be her last voyage. Late that evening a passenger was taking a stroll on deck to get some fresh air before retiring for the night when he noticed a light in the distance. He informed the ship's fourth officer, who identified it as a ship some two miles away. Confident that the Bridge was keeping watch, the officer took no action. Within minutes, the Spanish steamer Yrurac Bat ploughed into the Douro's starboard side. The impact was with such force that the Yrurac Bat rebounded and, with her engines still propelling her forward, struck the Douro a second time. The Douro immediately stopped its engines as pandemonium broke out among the passengers. Roused from their beds, panic-stricken passengers ran this way and that, not knowing which lifeboat they should report to. It only took 30 minutes for the Douro to sink. As precious time slipped away, the lifeboats were jammed in their davits and no one had a knife to cut them free. When the lifeboats were finally launched, the oarlocks could not be found. To make matters worse, some of the boats were also missing their plugs, which resulted in frantic bailing in order to keep them afloat. The rule of women and children first was strictly adhered to. Of the six passengers who drowned, none were children. However, one was a woman who, in a state of panic, refused to get into a boat. The captain, four Senior Officers and the Chief and Second Engineers went down with the ship, though 49 passengers and 60 crewmembers were saved. The Yrurac Bat sank in 15 minutes and 30 people lost their lives. Survivors from both ships were rescued by the British steamer Hidalgo. The Discovery and Salvage of the Douro Equipped with sonar, cameras and other state-of-the-art equipment, the salvage team spent two years searching for the Douro. During that time, they battled terrible weather conditions while discovering a large number of Victorian-era shipwrecks. Many of the wrecks had to be investigated to determine if they were the Douro. By the end of 1994, Hallstrom and Pickford believed they had found the Douro. After retrieving the ship's bell in 1995, the team realized they had the wrong ship. It turned out to be the wreck of the S.S. Gijon, which sank in the same area in 1884. Later that year, the salvage team finally discovered the Douro in a treacherous tangle of old fishing nets and rope. The final confirmation was the discovery of a porcelain plate. When the plate was brought to the surface, it bore the Royal Mail's insignia of a seahorse, proving that the Douro had been found. Excavation work began on the stowage position by Deepsea Worker LTD, an international deep-water, heavy-lift salvage company. The exact location of the bullion room had not been found, but a combination of luck and patient analysis paid dividends. In the course of the carefully targeted recovery operations from the bullion room in the aft section of the ship, 28,000 gold and silver coins — featuring an unprecedented range and variety of gold sovereigns — were brought to the surface. After 113 years, the treasure of the Douro finally made it to England

2754 Trp John William Gleave 22nd Cheshire Coy Imperial Yeomanry John William Gleave, was born in St Asaph around 1882. He lived at ` Mount Pleasant` on Mount Road. He was a painter and decorator by trade, he served a 4 year apprentiship with Mr Peacock of St George. On the 18th February 1901, John travelled to Chester and enlisted in the 22nd Cheshire Company of the Imperial Yeomanry, part of the 2nd Battalion of the Imperial Yeomanry, his age on enlistment is give as 20 years and 3 months. His papers described him as 5`4 1/4” tall, with a fresh complexion, blue eyes and dark brown hair. Religion Church of England. On the 8th March 1901, he arrived in South Africa. Joining the 22nd on or around the11th April 1901, at Brandfort, in the Orange River Colony and continued to serve in South Africa till the 27th September 1901. John was discharged from the Army on the 23rd November 1901 at Shornecliffe Barracks as being unfit for further service. He is entitled to the Queen’s South Africa with 3 clasps, Cape Colony, Orange Free State and South Africa 1901. John died aged 56 years of age, on the 30th December 1938 and is buried in Mount Road Cemetery, along with his Wife Hannah Gleaves aged 61 10th May 1941, and son John William Gleaves aged 66, 30th January 1980. The first soldiers of the Cheshire Yeomanry arrived in South Africa on the 25th February 1900, landing at Cape Town. However, from the Units history and Gleave`s service papers, I have pieced his involvement in the campaign as thus……. On or about the 8th March 1901, Trp Gleave arrived in Cape Town, South Africa. Arriving along with 12,000 other Yeomen, to act as replacements for the Yeoman already serving in the campaign. The Yeoman who had been serving since 25th Feb 1900, had become disillusioned with the war and the glamour of it all had long since faded into the background. England seemed far more preferable to marching in the Karoo desert. While the 22nd was resting at Brandfort, on the 11th April 1901, they were joined by a draft of 27 men under Lt Price. All the men cam from Cheshire ( I assume that Gleave, was one of these men, as the only other replacements to arrive at this time, were 48 men all from London). On the 22nd April, the 22nd Coy, left Brandfort to begin their last operation in South Africa, they were accompanied by the new arrivals. They were given the job, of clearing all the farms in the area of Winburg, Senekal and Vaal Kop. It was no easy task as there where many Boers in the vicinity. The Boers were now beginning to feel the effects of the removal of their sources of supply and their efforts to interfere with the British Operations, became more determined each week. The policy in the area was always to remove the occupants to a refugee camp (the first concentration camps), and never leave anyone on a farm. In spite of frequent contact with the Boers, the Company survived the next 18 days without casualties. Then on the morning of the 10th May they arrived at Virginia Sidings. The Cheshire Yeomanry`s operations in South Africa were over. Gleave continued to serve in South Africa, until September, I have been unable to ascertain details of this part of his service. But I can confirm that his health failed, as was so often the case in the war, more soldiers died of sickness and disease, than by enemy action. He returned to England and was discharged at Shorncliffe in the November. He then returned to St Asaph. This is were my research ends, except to say that he died and was buried in St Asaph, in 1932. If anyone has any additional details, I’d very much like to hear them. I have as yet, not been able to find a picture of Gleave, but again, if anyone has one, I’d very much like to see it.

Behind Enemy Lines A number of gold sovereigns were issued to British Military Personnel taking part in Operation Granby as part of the Coalition Forces during the First Gulf War. Sovereigns provided by the Ministry of Defence and carried by serviceman who, it was thought, might find themselves isolated and in need of bargaining power if confronted by unfriendly forces. Several sovereigns were used during the war, mainly by RAF crews shot down over enemy territory, SAS soldiers also carried sovereigns, as part of their kit, for use whilst on patrol. But all the un captured coins were returned to the M.O.D at the conclusion of the conflict, having served their purpose. 16,289 pieces were returned during the war, by personal on completion of their missions behind enemy territory. Military personal carried twenty sovereigns each as part of their survival kit. The revived twenty-shilling gold sovereign became universally respected during the 19th centaury, thought out and beyond the British Empire. Accepted as readily in the Arab Souk as in the City of London, it was hailed as `the chief coin of the world`. During WW2 gold sovereigns were included in the survival kit of SOE agents. Mention of the coin in James Bond novels of Ian Flemming suggest that the sovereign also has its place in the world of espionage. In the Gulf War, British service personnel at risk of being stranded behind enemy lines were issued with twenty sovereigns a man to buy food, shelter and safe conduct. The Sovereign is struck in 22 carat gold and weighs 7.98 grams. It measures 22.05 mm in diameter. Andy McNab Bravo Two Zero P198/199 Around my waist, however,, on a one inch webbing belt, was today’s star prize, about ?1,700 in sterling, in the form of twenty gold sovereigns we had each been given as escape money. I had fixed my coins to the belt with masking tape and this created a drama. They jumped back, shouting what I assumed was the Iraqi for let him go, he’s going to explode! A captain arrived he couldn’t have been more than 5`2” tall but must have weighed over 13 stone. He looked like a boil egg. He was aggressive, speaking good English quickly and brusquely. What’s is the equipment you have there? He asked pointing at the masking tape. Gold I said. The word must be international as jeans or Pepsi. Why do you have gold? I pulled out the first gold sovereign and the ruperts were summoned, they then began to divide the sovereigns between themselves. They tried to look so official and solemn, as they did but it was blatantly obvious what they were up to. John Peters & John Nicols Tornado Down P107 Then the one who had punched me in the face found my money, ?1000 in gold sovereigns. He looked at it. The gold glittered back at him. Peter `Yorkie` Crossland Victor Two P61 Blood money was standard SAS issue and consisted of gold sovereigns and what was called a blood chit- a document in English, Arabic and Farsi which promised the sum of ?5000 to anyone aiding a British soldier. Each blood chit carried a unique serial that could be checked against a person’s name. I don’t recall anyone ever using his blood chit, but the gold was different. On some occasions the sovereigns were regulated and each soldier had to sign for them: but other times they were just given a fistful of gold and told to get on with it. In fairness, some of the guys did genuinely use the money to buy vehicles to aid escape, and in battle equipment does get lost. But a lot of the gold did not turn up again at the end of the war, since the accountability was poor many of the guys still have their sovereigns. Good luck to them, I say.………….The fifteen gold sovereigns with which I was issued, I stuck to black masking tape. Next I cut the lining of my trousers and threaded the tape into my waistband. Storm Command by General Sir Peter De La Billiere P204 Tornados skimming across the border at 800KPH and heading north over the sands at ultra low level, with their clumsy coffin-shaped JP233 slung beneath their bellies. Every crewman carried ?800 in gold, to facilitate escape in case of trouble, and also a chit written in Arabic which promised that Her Majesty’s Government would pay the sum of ?5000 to anyone who returned an airman intact to the allies.

Storm Command by General Sir Peter De La Billiere P204 Tornados skimming across the border at 800KPH and heading north over the sands at ultra low level, with their clumsy coffin-shaped JP233 slung beneath their bellies. Every crewman carried ?800 in gold, to facilitate escape in case of trouble, and also a chit written in Arabic which promised that Her Majesty’s Government would pay the sum of ?5000 to anyone who returned an airman intact to the allies.

Hi M, Many thanks for your reply. I`m awaiting some copies from the Earl of Cheshire book, about the Yeomany and the Boer War, don`t know if you`ve read that one. I intend to visit the Cheshire Mueum when I get a minute. But I think to have a go read of the 5000 Miles book, will be unpractical, but will certianly scim, threw it. Just to see on the off chance if Gleave is mentioned in it, and or to find out what the unit did whilst he was in SA with them. Good luck with your studies.

Black Watch soldier Corporal Peter William Laing MC receives the Queen’s Gallantry Medal for his bravery following a suicide bomb attack in North Babil, Iraq, on 4 November 2004. Despite sustaining serious injuries himself, Cpl Laing dragged each of his wounded colleagues to safety, taking charge of the situation and administering first aid. “Corporal Laing demonstrated considerable personal bravery, firm leadership and a complete absence of self-interest in the successful treatment and recovery of his section.” His actions “were in the highest traditions of the Black Watch and of the service.” The Queen’s Gallantry Medal is also awarded to Private Jonetani Matia Lawaci of the Black Watch. Pte Lawaci is cited for his brave rescue of three colleagues who almost drowned when their Warrior plunged off a bridge into deep water in North Babil on 29 October 2004. Pte Lawaci is commended for demonstrating “the highest form of courage and quick thinking.” Chief Petty Officer Matthew Stephen Fisher is awarded the Queen’s Gallantry Medal for his actions in Grenada following the devastation of Hurricane Ivan in September 2004. With law and order rapidly breaking down following the hurricane, CPO Fisher seized the initiative and created a path to the main hospital, ensuring the safe arrival of first aid teams and the maintenance of medical supplies. The citation praises his: “calm demeanour, exemplary leadership and bravery in the face of adversity.” The Air Force Cross is awarded to Lieutenant Commander Martin John Ford, the aircraft commander and observer of a Search and Rescue helicopter, for bravery and professionalism demonstrated following the Boscastle flooding in August 2004. Despite rapidly deteriorating weather, severely decreased visibility and failed communications due to water ingress, Lt Cdr Ford decided to continue with the rescue operation. After a demanding operation lasting almost five hours, which included Lt Cdr Ford having to instruct his pilots through hand signals, the helicopter returned safely to base having evacuated 23 casualties to safety. Lt Cdr Ford is commended for his “inspiration to his crew, displaying incredible leadership under enormous pressure, selfless bravery and absolute professionalism.” Captain Peter Holmes McLelland RM and Lieutenant Michael Scott receive the Queen’s Commendation for Bravery in the Air for their contribution as the helicopter pilots in this incident. The Queen’s Commendation for Bravery in the Air is also awarded to Royal Air Force winch men, Master Aircrew Clive Andrew MacDonald Chapman, Sergeant Mario Alessandro Testa and Sergeant Martin Peter Thompson for their actions rescuing trapped civilians during the Boscastle flooding. Other honours and awards reflect the full range of ranks and expertise of the Armed Forces. Lieutenant Colonel James Michael Cowan, receives the OBE for his command and leadership of 1st Battalion The Black Watch in Iraq between June and December 2004. The citation praises his “clear and decisive leadership.”

I must say, I am inclined to agree with you on this one. I didn`t think he was entitled to a VC, either. But at the end of the day he got it. I don`t want to go into details about the circumstances, as I wasn`t there, however it`ll be interesting to see if any more come up over the next few months/years. Theres a guy called Lcpl Laing of the Black Watch who won the MC, during the war and has now just been given a QGM, for something else!!! Theres also a female medic from the RAMC who got an MID, for going out with every patrol her Coy was deployed on, she was with the Black Watch, on there resent mission, to Baghdad. Again, I can`t see why see got an MID for that, but again I wasn`t there so can`t really comment. I wonder how many other acts, when un rewarded. I somethimes feel that these awards are a bit hollow, but I wouldn`t mind if I got one!!! However, if you got it for something naff, who it take the edge off it a bit do you think. At the end of the day it all bolis down to other peoples views on what they saw, of your act. You might might having been running away or something but someone thought you where doing something else. Example I heard the tale of a guy who was on the Galahad, and went below to resue his video collection, on his way back up he saw a med kit and picked that up as well. The powers that been thought he`d gone down to get this and he was awarded an MM. Another is an MC in Iraq, I had mates who were there, and said no way was an MC in order as he didn`t do anything!!!