Exceptional Naval and Polar Awards from the Collection of RC Witte

Pair: Private W. Baker, East Surrey Regiment

Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, 5 clasps, Tugela Heights, Orange Free State, Relief of Ladysmith, Transvaal, Laing’s Nek (5476 Pte., 2nd E. Surrey Regt.); King’s South Africa 1901-02, 2 clasps (5476 Pte., E. Surrey Regt.) edge bruising, nearly very fine (2) £180-220

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, Exceptional Naval and Polar Awards from the Collection of RC Witte.

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Walter Robert Baker was born in Caterham, Surrey. A Fishmonger by occupation and a member of the 4th Battalion East Surrey Regiment, he attested for regular service with the regiment at Kingston-on-Thames on 30 November 1897, aged 19 years, 11 months. He served in South Africa, October 1899-March 1908. Baker was wounded at Pieters Hill, 23 February 1900 - the same day as his comrade - Private Albert Edward Curtis, was winning the Victoria Cross for rescuing his wounded Colonel. After South Africa, Baker served in India, March 1904(?)-October 1905. He was transferred to the Army Reserve in November 1905 and was discharged on 29 November 1909.

With copied service papers and other research.