Canada, CEF. A Queen’s South Africa and First War Group to A.Q.M Sergeant C. Barker, 3rd Battalion

 A swing mounted medal bar, measures 140 mm (w), horizontal pin on reverse, comprising four decorations:

A Queen South Africa Medal, in silver, rim impressed 4069 PTE. C. BARKER. K. C. SCOT: BORD:, with three clasps (TRANSVAAL, PAARDEBERG, CAPE COLONY), original ribbon, small edge knocks and light area of wear, lovely patina, near extremely fine. 

A 1914-15 Star, bronze gilt, full size, reverse impressed 6001 A.Q.M. SJT. C. BARKER. 3/CAN. INF:, original ribbon, light contact marks, extremely fine condition. 

A British War Medal, in silver, full size, rim impressed 6001 A.C.Q.M. SJT. C. BARKER. 3-CAN. INF., original ribbon, light contact marks and residue near suspension, lovely patina, near extremely fine. 

A Victory Medal, bronze gilt, full size, rim impressed 6001 A.C.Q.M. SJT. C. BARKER. 3-CAN. INF., original ribbon, small areas of gilt wear and contact marks throughout, very fine. 

Accompanied by a CEF Army Cap Badge, in pickled brass, two lugs on the reverse with pin included, measures 37.6 mm (w) x 38.7 mm (h), light wear, remains very fine. 

Footnote: Charles Barker was born in Yorkshire, England on February 20, 1876. Prior to serving in the Great War, he had experience with the 10th Grenadiers, and was employed as a concrete labourer. Barker enlisted at Valcartier on September 22, 1914, at the age of 39.

Due to his previous service, he went to Valcartier as the quartermaster sergeant of the Grenadiers unit, and was appointed to the battalion headquarters in September 1914. He served on the front lines with the 3rd Battalion (Toronto Regiment) between February 12, 1915 to May 11, 1915. 

Barker suffered from nervous shock and shortness of breath. His report states “May 9th, 1915. Ypres. In the trenches was overcome by Gas. He was unconscious for some days when he came to he was in Boulogne. Birmingham for 3 wks. Then Conv. Home in Warwick 3 wks. Coarse tremor on finger extended. His nerves are still unsteady. He complains of shortness of breath on exertion. Breath sounds are roughened. Heart is rapid but no organic trouble. Sound accentuated, Reflexes increased. Appetite is poor, he does not vomit, but only eats one meal a day. Slleps [sic] only fair.”

As of January 4, 1916, Barker was discharged as medically unfit for duty. At his own request, Corporal Barker reverted his rank upon arrival in England. He continued home service while in Canada. 

In April 1917, Barker reenlisted with the Welland Canal Force. He was later discharged at Thorold on June 14, 1918.