Description

2041 Bugler Kuresh 40th Pathans

2041 Bugler Major Kuresh 40th Pathans. Kuresh was born in Sokhokot in the North West Frontier Province the son of Sikander. He enlisted in the 40th Pathans (regimental nickname ‘The 40 Thieves’) and enlisted at some point before 1903 serving on the North West Frontier 1908 and earning this India General Service Medal.

It is highly probable that he served in the Tibet Expedition and he probably earnt the Tibet Medal with Clasps Gyantse. He was promoted bugle Major of the regiment and sailed for France on the outbreak of war. The first major engagement which the 40th Pathans took part was at the Battle of St. Julien, part of the 2nd Battle of Ypres on the 26th April 1915. And of a strength of 650 of all ranks, the battalion suffered 320 casualties. He was killed in action in this engagement and would have been entitled to a 1914-15 Star Trio. He is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial.

Whilst his other medals have sadly become split from his IGS, this is a good opportunity to add a Bugle Major WWI Casualty to your collection and maybe start searching for his other medals.

With copy research

Condition as shown in photographs- polished. Pawnbroker’s mark? on name.