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Auction: 23112 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 205

An 'Retreat from Mons - M.I.D.' 1914 Star awarded to 2nd Lieutenant H. E. A. Poole, 11th Hussars, late 20th Hussars, the son of a Military Knight of Windsor, who entered the war as a Corporal, was commissioned 2nd Lieutenant and thrice wounded only to die of his wounds on 2 June 1915

1914 Star (5439 L.Sjt. H. Poole. 20/Hrs.), minor wear, very fine

Hugh Edward Algernon Poole was born the son of Major Charles Arthur Edward Poole, late 10th Hussars who had been serving as a Military Knight of Windsor since 1906. Entering the war in France on 16 August 1914 he saw heavy fighting between the Battle of Mons and the Battle of the Aisne. Notably having been advance Lance-Sergeant, Poole was 'mentioned' in Field Marshal French's dispatch from 28 August 1914 (London Gazette 20 October 1914).

On that day the 5th Cavalry Brigade, including the 20th Hussars were attempting to slow the German advance near Cerizy. The 20th distinguished themselves by attacking a German Battery north of the village: while one section distracted the enemy with heavy fire two Squadrons charged and routed them for the loss of only one man. It should be noted that Poole appears in Army Mentions as having been 'mentioned' on 8 October during the Battle of the Aisne, however this is likely as a result of a correction in rank issued around this time.

At this stage Poole was commissioned 2nd Lieutenant and posted from the 20th to the 11th Hussars. He continued to serve with them in France until being sent home as a result of serious wounds suffered in action. Despite making it back to Britain Poole's injuries were too severe and he died on 2 June 1915. A note of his Commonwealth War Graves entry states that he was wounded in action three times. Poole is buried at Windsor Cemetery; sold together with copied research including M.I.C., M.I.D. cards and London Gazette entries as well as census data, a Commonwealth War Graves certificate and research relating to his father and the Military Knights of Windsor.

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Sold for
£160

Starting price
£40