Canada, CEF. A First War Pair to Lieut. Shirres

A British War Medal, in silver, rim impressed LIEUT. G. T. SHIRRES., suspension is missing the bar, dark patina and light contact, remains very fine. 

A privately made Victory Medal, in silver gilt, rim impressed LIEUT. G.T. SHIRES., gilt wear to edges. A unique silver gilt version, in very fine condition. 

Footnote: Gordon Thistle Shirres was born in Surrey, England in 1894. He was a student when he was considered fit for service in February 1916, and enlisted with the 77th Battalion as a Lieutenant. 

He was transferred to the 73rd battalion in 1916. In March, 1917, he suffered multiple gunshot wounds to the abdomen, back, right arm, and ankle. At this time, the 73rd battalion was serving on the Western Front in France as part of the Canadian Corps, preparing for the upcoming spring offensive. During this period, the battalion was engaged primarily in training, reorganization, and front-line rotations, including trench duty, working parties, and tactical preparation for large-scale operations. Much of this activity was connected to the build-up for the Battle of Vimy Ridge. 

Following this injury, Shirres was unfit for service, and was ultimately struck off service in November 1918 as medically unfit.