United Kingdom. A Waterloo Medal to Private James Vallis, 11th Regiment, Light Dragoons

A Waterloo Medal, in silver, full size, naming officially impressed on the rim JAMES VALLIS, 11 REG. LIGHT DRAGOONS., suspension has been privately replaced with an ornate swivel tower and bar, edge contact evident, lovely patina, in better than very fine condition. 

Footnote: Private James Vallis is present on the Waterloo Medal Roll under Captain John Jenkin’s Troop of the 11th Regiment of Light Dragoons. 

The Battle of Waterloo, fought on June 18, 1815, marked the decisive defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte by the Seventh Coalition forces led by the Duke of Wellington and Prussian Field Marshal Blücher. Among the British cavalry, the 11th Regiment of Light Dragoons played a supporting role, primarily tasked with reconnaissance, screening, and skirmishing duties on Wellington's left flank. Though not involved in the most famous cavalry charges of the day, the regiment contributed by protecting the army’s flanks, pursuing retreating French forces, and helping maintain battlefield communication. Their discipline and mobility exemplified the light cavalry's value in the broader tactical coordination that led to Napoleon's final downfall. On June 18, 1815, the 11th Regiment of Light Dragoons had a strength of 390 soldiers. Over the course of the battle, a total of 76 casualties occurred, of which officers suffered 2killed, 5 wounded; while the rank and file endured 10 killed, 34 wounded, and 25 missing.