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Auction: 24003 - Orders, Decorations and Medals
Lot: 90

(x) Three: Captain of Orderlies W. Pike, Army Hospital Corps, who had a horse shot under him at the Battle of Ulundi

China 1856-60, no clasp (Ordy. Wm. Pike. Medical Staff Corps), engraved naming; South Africa 1877-79, 1 clasp, 1879 (Lieut of Ords. W. Pike. A.H.C.); Army L.S. & G.C., V.R. (1343. Cr. Sergt. W. Pike A. H. Corps.), very fine and an unusual combination (3)

Provenance:
Glendining, September 1977.

William Pike served in the ranks of the Medical Staff Corps and Army Hospital Corps. He was commissioned and served as Lieutenant of Orderlies during the Zulu War of 1879, with his services recorded as follows:

'Embarked for Natal in February 1879, in command of a detachment of Army Hospital Corps. Proceeded to join Newdigate's Divisions. At Landman's Drift, taking over the equipment and stores of the Base Hospital at Ladysmith and establishing a Field Hospital at Dundee en route. On reaching Headquarters formed two movable Field Hospitals for infantry and cavalry, and sent a third to Conference Hill. Took part, in charge of four Field Hospitals, in the advance of the Divisions into Zululand.

Was present at the Battle of Ulundi (horse killed at the commencement of the action). On the break up of the Divisions was strongly recommended by the Senior Medical Officer for promotion. Supplied movable Field Hospitals to Baker Russell's Column.'

Pike was retired with the rank of Captain in January 1886.

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

Estimate
£1,400 to £1,800

Starting price
£1200