Private Jefferson's Hero?
Private James Welch Northumbrland Fusiliers
Royal Humane Society Medal in Bronze
The Man No details can be found about James Welch due the sheer number of people with the same name. No service number is on the medal and of course this was 22 years before World War I and it is likely James may have been too old to serve.
The Story This Royal Humane Society Medal was given to me back in about 1978 by the wife of a member of Leamington Spa Branch Royal Air Forces Association, together with those of the Maxwell family. Nothing was done with it, and despite being named to a Private in the Northumberland Fusiliers as it sat outside of my main collecting interests. It was only during 2012, when advised that the Royal Humane Society web site gave full citations, that I became interested and found the citation on the web site, together with Private Welchs first name. A small amount of information, but nevertheless an interesting snapshot into James Welch's life.
The reverse of the medal is inscribed VIT.OB.SERV.D.D. SOC.REG.HVM (The Royal Humane Society presented this gift for saving life). Thus indicating that James rescue attempt was successful. The inscription around the rim reads PTE.J.WELCH. NORTHD FUS 11th APRIL 1892. The entry on the RHS web site states: Case 25821
Brown, Henry, Pte, 2nd Bn Northumberland Fusiliers
Welch James, Pte, 2nd Bn Northumberland Fusiliers
At great personal risk, attempted to rescue Pte G. Jefferson from drowning in Cabul River, Punjab, on the 11th April, 1892.
An interesting discovery with the potential for further reseach, and again shows the power of the internet. With thanks to the Royal Humane Society and Bill Fevyer.
The obverse of James Welch's Medal is translated as Perhaps a tiny spark may be concealed. The reverse inscription within the wreath is The Royal Humane Society Pesented This Gift For Saving Life thus confirming James and Henry's attempt was successful
Medal Details:
- Royal Humane Society Medal: PTE.J.WELCH. NORTH'D FUS 11th APRIL 1892
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This page last updated 6 Mar 17