Orders, Decorations and Medals

Punjab 1848-49, 2 clasps, Mooltan, Goojerat (Lieut. T. C. Dartnell, 51st Bengal N.I.) edge bruising, pitting to obv. from a star, very fine £550-650

Thomas Charles Darnell was born in County Durhan, son of the Rev. W. N. Darnell. After a private education he was admitted to Addiscombe in February 1840 and joined the service in June 1842. Posted as an Ensign to the 51st Native Infantry in September 1842, he arrived at Fort William in the following November. He took part in the battle of Punniar (Bronze Star), was promoted to Lieutenant in May 1844, and subsequently took part at the siege and capture of Mooltan and the battle of Goojerat, in which battle he was severely wounded by a musket ball (Medal with clasps).

In consequency of the severity of his wound, which was deemed to be ‘fully equal to the loss of a limb,’ he was granted twelve months’ pay of his rank. Promoted to Captain in November 1856, and to Major in June 1862, he retired in November 1865 and was granted the honorary rank of Lieutenant-Colonel in June 1866. Colonel Darnell died at Stanhope, Sidmouth, on 20 February 1909, aged 84. Sold with copied service papers and other research.