Five: Stoker Petty Officer T. A. Payne, Royal Navy

1914-15 Star (K.5999 L. Sto., R.N.); British War and Victory Medals (K.5999 S.P.O., R.N.); Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 2nd issue, fixed suspension (K.5999 S.P.O., H.M.S. Victory); Russia, St. George Medal for Bravery, 4th Class, silver, rev. numbered, ‘No.1273094’, mounted as worn, nearly very fine (5) £250-300

Thomas Arthur Payne was born in Alverstoke, Hampshire. A Groom by occupation, he enlisted into the Royal Navy as a Stoker 2nd Class in April 1910, being promoted to Stoker 1st Class whilst on the armoured cruiser Hampshire in March 1911. He was posted to the armoured cruiser Minotaur in May 1912 and was promoted to Acting Leading Stoker in July 1913 and Leading Stoker in November 1914. He remained on the Minotaur until December 1917, and was with her at the battle of Jutland, 30 May/1 June 1916 - the ship being part of the 2nd Cruiser Squadron. For his services at the battle, he was awarded the Russian Medal of St. George, 4th Class. He attained the rank of Stoker Petty Officer in March 1918 and continued to serve until 1928. Sold with copied service paper and confirmation of Russian award.