In memory of Lieutenant William Whyte - killed in action on 28 September 1918, age 25."We would remember that in all he was called upon to do he was ever faithful and loyal, and in that spirit he gave his life for his King and Country".

 

5th (Angus & Dundee) Battalion

THE BLACK WATCH

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Cross of Saint George (3rd Class)

This was a Russian (Czarist) Medal which comprised of four classes and was the result of exchanges of decorations between the Allies.

The award was not made directly by Russia to the recipient as such.  Each of the Allies allocated decorations to the other, and their award was actually made by the soldier's own monarch or government, from recommendations through the normal system.  The recipient did not have to have had any contact or association with the Russian military forces, nor be anywhere near Russia at the time of earning the award.

The Russian awards were much rarer than French or Belgian awards and ceased at the time of the Russian Revolution in 1917.

In most cases the award of this medal was a double award a British Imperial Award.  In this case, the awarded accompanied a Distinguished Conduct Medal and it is possible that the recipient had initially been recommended for the Victoria Cross, and the award of the second foreign decoration made as a sort of consolation.

In all instances the Cross of Saint George were issued unnamed.

"His Imperial Majesty the Emperor of Russia has been graciously pleased to confer, with the approval of His Majesty the King, the under-mentioned rewards for gallantry and distinguished service in the Field:"

Lance Corporal 542

GEORGE ANDERSON

25th August 1915

 
Copyright © 2005 Ian Edwards
Last modified: 07 June 2010