The King Presenting Medals 1901



From a photo published in the Navy & Army Illustrated showing the presentation of the Queen's South Africa Medal to the men of Strathcona's Horse on 15th February. Edward VII had been King for only 3 weeks as Victoria had died on the 22nd January 1901. The caption refers to the regiment as "this Distinguished Corps". Besides the King and Queen, there was Field Marshal Lord Roberts (extreme left), The Duke of Connaught, the Duke of Cambridge, Joseph Chamberlain and many other notables. This demonstrates the high regard given to Strathcona's because it would seem that this ceremony was for their benefit only. The King made a speech to the men and Colonel Sam Steele made a speech in reply. They are wearing dark greatcoats over their service dress. The man receiving his medal has trousers but most of the others are wearing puttees or boots.


Regimental details


Armed Forces | Art and Culture | Articles | Biographies | Colonies | Discussion | Glossary | Home | Library | Links | Map Room | Sources and Media | Science and Technology | Search | Student Zone | Timelines | TV & Film | Wargames



by Stephen Luscombe