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Auction: 21003 - Orders, Decorations and Medals
Lot: 184

(x) Three: Squadron Quartermaster J. Rees, 18th Hussars

Queen's South Africa 1899-1902, 2 clasps, Talana, Transvaal (3832. O.R. Corpl. J. Rees. 18.Hrs.); King's South Africa 1901-02, 2 clasps, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 (3892 Corpl: J. Rees. 18th Hussars); Army L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., (3832 Sjt: J. Rees. 18/Hrs.), heavy contact wear overall, good fine (3)

Joseph Rees was born at Carmarthen in 1873, the son of David Rees. He worked as an Ironmonger's Assistant prior to enlistment with the 18th Hussars on 22 March 1892. He remained in Britain for the next year before being posted to India on 4 February 1893. Whilst serving here he was promoted Lance Corporal on 22 March 1894, and Orderly Room Corporal 15 May 1898. Later that year (15 October 1898) Rees went out to South Africa with his regiment: arriving before the commencement of hostilities they were present at the Battle of Talana Hill early in the war. During the withdrawal of the Boer forces the 18th were sent in a wide manoeuvre to cut off their retreat - however they were themselves engaged by large force of Boers and one squadron under Lieutenant-Colonel Moller was forced to surrender. Rees was apparently not present for the Siege of Ladysmith, suggesting he was taken prisoner with Moller. That said, he was back with the 18th by July 1900, if only briefly as he was listed as missing on 29 July at Sandspruit. Again he had returned to his unit by 27 July 1902 when he was posted home.

Appointed Lance Sergeant on 27 May 1903 and later promoted Sergeant on 3 January 1905, Rees excelled during his time in the Hussars and received his L.S & G.C. in October 1910. Advanced Squadron Sergeant Major on 18 January 1911, Rees was discharged on 21 March 1913 at Tidworth; here he was issued with a document from his Commanding Officer attesting to his sobriety and trustworthiness. Sold together with copied service papers and articles relating to the 18th Hussars in South Africa.

Subject to 5% tax on Hammer Price in addition to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium.

Sold for
£700

Starting price
£240