Those gathered in the United Reformed Church hall this month were spellbound as they listened to Lt Col James Condon talk about military medals.
A real enthusiast, before retiring twelve years ago he worked in the Army Medal Office and had prepared a very knowledgeable talk explaining the classes, divisions and groups of medals available.
He started by giving the definition of a medal which included the words “medals have no stated value”. Their value being in the award for a particular act of courage, long service, participation in a particular campaign or a reflection of a position held. He explained that the VC, Victoria Cross, the highest award for military bravery is made from part of a canon captured from the Russians in the Crimean War. The equivalent award for civilian bravery is the George Cross. Many, but not, all medals have the recipient’s name engraved on them, often around the rim.
This information can be used by both family descendants and collectors to trace the history of those awarded medals. Jim, as a collector, had brought groups of medals to show, some of which had local connections. Needless to say there were a great many questions at the close of the talk.
The next general meeting is on August 9th when we holding our annual summer lunch. The next meeting at the United Reformed Church hall, will be on September 13th. As usual it will start at 2pm; any newcomers are more than welcome.