Canada, CEF. A First War Group to Pte. F. Gardner, 71st Battalion, WIA at the Somme

A British War Medal, in silver, full size, rim impressed 126244 PTE. F. GARDNER. 7-CAN. INF., minor wear, dark patina, extremely fine. 

A Victory Medal, bronze gilt, full size, rim impressed 126244 PTE. F. GARDNER. 7-CAN. INF., light wear, near extremely fine. 

A 71st Overseas Battalion Cap Badge, in pickled copper with silvered numbers, two lugs on the reverse (reaffixed), measures 37.5mm (w) x 40 mm (h), light wear, very fine. 

Two 71st Overseas Battalion Collar Badges, in browning copper with silvered numbers, two lugs on the reverse, measures 27mm (w) x 23 mm (h), each in very fine condition. 

An Honorable Services pin, in silver, numbered 24354, horizontal pin on reverse, very fine. 

A For Services at the Front pin, in bronze and enamels, numbered 173309, screwpost on reverse, enamels intact, very fine. 

Footnote: Frank Wilfred Gardner was born in Stroud, Clocestershire in November 1897. He was residing in Stratford Ontario, and working as a cabinet maker at the time of his enlistment on September 8, 1915 with the 71st Battalion. 

Gardner arrived in Plymouth in November 1915, and was taken on strength  by the 36th Battalion in early December. In May 1916, he was transferred to the 1st Battalion. In October of the same year, he suffered a gunshot wound to the left ankle while serving ‘on the Somme.’ Throughout the remainder of his service, he served with the 3rd Battalion, Canadian Labour Pool, and 1st CORD. 

He returned to Canada in July 1919. Gardner died in April, 1964 in Stratford, Ontario.