Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Crimea D.C.M. awarded to Private J. Wait, 50th Foot, a game veteran who was wounded at Sobraon, and Sebastopol, and appeared 77 times in the Regimental Defaulters Book

Distinguished Conduct Medal, V.R. (2150 John Wait, 50th Regt.) regimental number additionally impressed, suspension re-affixed and one side of carriage repaired, contact marks, good fine £1000-1400

Provenance: Sotheby’s, March 1984.

D.C.M. recommendation dated 4 January 1855.

John Wait was born in County Down, and attested for the 50th Foot at Glasgow, in May 1843. He served with the Regiment during the Sutlej and Crimean Campaigns, and ‘Recd. Medal and 3 clasps for “Moodkee” Ferozeshuhur Aliwal & Sobraon. Crimea Medal 3 clasps for Alma Inkermann & Sebastopol. Turkish Medal and Silver Medal with Gratuity of £5 for Distinguished Conduct in the Field.’ (Service Papers refer)

Wait was twice wounded, firstly at Sobraon on 10 February 1846, and then at Sebastopol on 23 October 1854. He was promoted Corporal in December 1855, but his progress was tempered by a fondness for drink - he appeared 77 times in the Regimental Defaulters Book, was tried by Court Martial 6 times, and imprisoned twice. He was finally discharged 17 January 1865, having served 21 years and 26 days with the Colours.