Description

Long Service and Good Conduct Medal Edward VII 56955 Gnr. R. Lake. RGA.

Robert was born in Crediton in 1862 according to his attestation papers however ‘Genes Reunited’ record his birth in 1858. He enlisted on 20th September 1886 in Devonport, Devon aged 23yrs and 10 months giving his trade as a ‘labourer’. He was 5ft 6″ tall, fair complexion, blue eyes and auburn hair. It is stated his religion was Church of England joining the Royal Garrison Artillery. 28th August 1887 he was posted to Gibraltar and on 27th August 1894 he married Caroline Moore at the Presbyterian Church in Gibraltar. Their daughter Margaret was born 23rd February 1894 in Gibraltar and in September 1894 he re-engaged to complete 12 years with the colours. In March 1896 their second daughter Caroline was born also in Gibraltar. He and his family returned to England January 1897 and their third daughter Rose Victoria was born in Kent 29th July 1897. In September 1897 the family and himself returned for service in Gibraltar. He then appears to have been transferred to serve in Malta returning to England October 1902 where his son Robert Ernest was born July 1903 whilst the family were living in Cambridge Barracks. He was awarded his Long Service and Good Conduct Medal on 13th July 1907 whilst serving with no. 37 company Royal Garrison Company with a £5 gratuity.  He was discharged on 19th September 1907 with a pension of 13d per week for life. His character had been exemplary and his intended place of residence was stated to be 59 Collingwood Road, Southsea, Hampshire. Sadly just over 2 years later he dies in Portsmouth.

Accompanied by a file of service and family copy documentation.

Condition as shown in photographs