Canada, CEF. Two First War Medals to Sjt. Noakes, 10th Infantry Battalion

A 1914-15 Star, in bronze, full size, reverse impressed 434681 SJT. J. F. NOAKES. 10/CAN: INF:, worn on the original ribbon, light wear, remains very fine. 

A British War Medal, in silver, full size, rim impressed 434681 SJT. J. F. NOAKES. 10/CAN: INF:, replacement ribbon, wear and discolouration, very fine. 

A Victory Medal, bronze gilt, full size, rim impressed 434681 SJT. J. F. NOAKES. 10-CAN.INF., original ribbon with paper residue, light wear, near extremely fine. 

A 10th Battalion Veteran Arm Band, in red felt with 10 painted on the front, a 10th Cap Badge affixed, in browning copper, two lugs on reverse with original pin, both in extremely fine condition. 

Accompanied by a Field Medical Card dated October 13, 1915. Contained within a Benson & Hedges cigar box, the lid has been stained with Canadian insignia with 10th BATTALION 1914-15-16 at the base, measures 225 mm (w) x 180 mm (h) x 70 mm (d), locking clasp functional, exhibiting wear on the exterior congruent with age, remains in near very fine condition. 

Footnote: James Frederick Noakes was born in 1885 in Hastings, England. He had served 3 years with the Winnipeg Grenadiers prior to enlisting for the war in February 1915 in Calgary. He quickly moved up the ranks, as records state he was to be appointed corporal in March, was shown as sergeant from March 19-April 30 of the same year, before being drafted overseas. 

He arrived in France in August 1915, and was taken on strength with the 10th battalion. 

In October 1915, he was sent to the No. 24 General Hospital for a concussion as the result of shell fire. He was hospitalized and treated for concussions over the next few months. In April 1916, he was discharged for diplopia (double vision).

The report states: “While in France shell exploded, and he awoke six hours later in the Hospital at Bailleul. Had general tremor, head was aching. Eye sight much dimmed. Within 24 hours complained of diplopia which has continued and is now permanent.”