Orders, Decorations and Medals

Pair: Private R. J. McGaffin, 15th Battalion Australian Imperial Forces, killed in action, Gallipoli, 8 August 1915

British War and Victory Medals (630 Pte., 15-Bn. A.I.F.) good very fine (2) £260-300

Robert John McGaffin was born in Kaiapoi, New Zealand and was a Policemen by occupation, having served five years with the New Zealand Police Force. Enlisting at Brisbane, Queensland, he served as a Private in the 15th Battalion A.I.F.. He was killed in action at Gallipoli on 8 August 1915, aged 30 years. His name is commemorated on the Lone Pine Memorial. He was the son of John and Mary Ann McGaffin of Kaiapoi, New Zealand. A note on his Roll of Honour of Australia entry, states that his uncle Richard Shepherd of Aukland was the first man in New Zealand to receive the Victoria Cross [he was actually a recipient of the New Zealand Cross]. Sold with some copied details.