SERVICE IN BOTH WARS
These medals were awarded to Albert Edwin Gilligan. He
was born in Dover in 1897, to Peter Gilligan, a coalminer, and
his wife Ellen Jane, née Hearne. They lived at 9 Magdala Road.
He served in both World Wars, as reflected by the medals above.
In order they are the Distinguished Conduct Medal, which he was
awarded for his role at Dunkirk in the 4th battalion of the
Royal West Kents. Next are the three medals for the Great War -
the 1914-18 Star, the British War Medal, and the Victory Medal.
Then come the 1939-45 Star, the Defence Medal, and the War
Medal, from the Second World War.
At the end is the Territorial Efficiency Medal, which was
introduced in 1908 and awarded until 1930, for 12 years service.
This one is from the 4th battalion of the Buffs, reflecting
his Great War service. The last is the Efficiency Medal
which superseded it. This was also awarded for 12 years service,
and is from the 4th battalion Royal West Kents. For both medals,
war-time service counts as double years.
It's an impressive array. Is there anyone in Dover who can beat
this record?
with thanks to Geoff Poole
picture, Geoff Poole
