The Jack Webb Collection of Medals and Militaria

Four: Lance-Corporal E. Burford, Middlesex Regiment, who was killed in action in the gallant defence of the Somme Crossings on 25 March 1918, on which date the 2nd Battalion suffered over 300 casualties

1914 Star (L-12360 Pte. E. Burford. 2/Middx: R.); British War and Victory Medals (L.12360 Pte. E. Burford. Midd’x. R.); Italy, Kingdom, Al Valore Militare, bronze, unnamed as issued; together with the recipient’s Memorial Plaque (Edward Burford) good very fine (5) £140-£180

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Jack Webb Collection of Medals and Militaria.

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Edward Burford was born in Maryland, and attested for the Middlesex Regiment in Willesden. He served with the 2nd Battalion during the Great War on the Western Front from 9 November 1914, and for his gallantry was awarded the Italian Al Valore Militare Medal (London Gazette 12 September 1918). He was killed in action during the defence of the Somme Crossings on 25 March 1918, on which date the 2nd Battalion suffered over 300 casualties, but as the Regimental History states:
‘Not once had an officer to reprimand a man. The fighting spirit was perfect and worthy of the traditions of the 77th. The 77th has never fought against such odds with such success except at Inkerman. Thank God all ranks did their duty.’

Burford is buried in Eterpigny Communal Cemetery Extension, Somme, France.