Canada, CEF. A First War Pair to Cpl. Branton, KIA at Hill 70, August 1917

 A British War Medal, in silver, full size, rim officially impressed 405725 CPL. C.T. BRANTON. 20-CAN. INF., minor wear, lovely patina, extremely fine. 

A Victory Medal, in bronze gilt, rim officially impressed 405725 CPL. C.T. BRANTON. 20-CAN. INF., minor wear and scratches, extremely fine. 

A 35th Infantry Battalion Cap Badge, in pickled copper, two lugs on the reverse, measures 50 mm (w) x 49 mm (h), light wear, very fine. 

Footnote: Charles Toyne Branton was born in Yorkshire, England in April 1872. He was employed as a Teamster, with 3.5 years of experience with the Royal Canadian Regiment and 14 years experience with the East Yorkshire Regiment, prior to enlisting for the Great War. He joined the 35th Battalion in Niagara on July 6, 1915. 

He arrived in France in March 1916, and was transferred to the 20th Battalion, 2nd Canadian Division in the same month. Branton suffered a shrapnel wound to the right knee in late May, 1916. His records state “shrapnel bullet imbedded in back of tibia just below knee joint.” He was struck off strength and re-attached to the 4th Reserve Battalion in January 1917. 

On August 17, 1917, likely while serving at Hill 70, Branton was killed in action.  

The 20th Battalion, part of the 2nd Canadian Division, played a major role in the Battle of Hill 70 in August 1917. On August 15, they advanced under heavy artillery fire to capture key objectives on the slopes of Hill 70, facing fierce German machine-gun fire and gas attacks. Over the next several days, they fought off repeated counterattacks, holding their positions despite severe casualties. Their efforts were crucial in securing the high ground, which forced the Germans to divert forces and marked a significant Canadian victory.