The 1914-15 Star awarded to Petty Officer H. Batchelor, Royal Navy, who was wounded in action in H.M.S. Princess Royal at the Battle of Jutland, 31 May 1916, and was subsequently Mentioned in Despatches for services in Minelayers during the Second World War

1914-15 Star (J. 8569, H. Batchelor, A.B., R.N.) good very fine £70-£90

Henry Batchelor was born in Lambeth, London, on 8 August 1894 and joined the Royal Navy as a Boy Second Class on 3 June 1910. Advanced Able Seaman on 12 June 1913, he served during the Great War in H.M.S. Princess Royal from the outbreak of War; as such he would have been present at the Battle of Heligoland Bight, in August 1914, before proceeding to the Caribbean Sea to prevent the German East Asia Squadron from using the Panama Canal. After the East Asia Squadron was sunk at the Battle of the Falkland Islands in December, H.M.S. Princess Royal rejoined the 1st Battle Cruiser Squadron. During the Battle of Dogger Bank, the ship scored only a few hits, although one crippled the German armoured cruiser Blücher. Shortly afterward, she became the flagship of the 1st Battle Cruiser Squadron.

Batchelor was wounded in action at the Battle of Jutland on 31 May 1916, during which H.M.S. Princess Royal was moderately damaged and required repairs. He subsequently served in H.M.S. Glory from 19 August 1916 to 31 May 1917, and was promoted Leading Seaman on 30 November 1916. Advanced Petty Officer on 4 May 1928, he was shore pensioned on 7 August 1934.

Recalled for War service, Batchelor served during the Second World War in H.M.S. Impulsive from 11 October 1939 to 1 April 1941, and was Mentioned in Despatches for ‘gallantry and devotion to duty while serving in H.M. Minelayers’ (London Gazette 14 January 1941). He was finally discharged, Class ‘A’, on 16 August 1945.

Sold with copied record of service.