Orders, Decorations and Medals

SOUTH AFRICA 1877-79, 1 clasp, 1877-8-9(1444 Pte. W. Hough, 1/24th Foot) nearly extremely fine

Private William Hough was Colonel Glyn's Cook and was killed in action at the battle of Isandhlwana. He is mentioned in the account of one of the survivors of the battle, 139 Private John Williams, 1/24th Regiment, Colonel Glyn's Groom: 'Meanwhile there was very heavy firing on the left and left centre. I myself and Private Hough, the Colonel's Cook, went to the left beyond the General's tents where we were joined by three of the General's servants, and began to fire from the left of No. 5 company, 1/24th Regiment. We fired 40 to 50 rounds each when the Native Contingent fell back on the Camp and one of their officers pointed out to me that the enemy were entering the right of the Camp. We then went to the right, No. 5 company still holding their position, and fired away the remainder of our ammunition, the Kaffirs turned the left of No. 5 company by coming over a high rock. The firing at this point still continuing very heavy.'

William Hough was born at Manchester and was a striker by trade. He attested at Lichfield on 13 August, 1867, aged 19 years, and served in 'H' company at St. Helena during 1876-77. For further details see 'The Silver Wreath' by Norman Holme.