1914-15 Star

A uniface star of four points, the upper covered by a crown, with two crossed swords entwined by a short scroll. Inscription: '1914-15.' An oak garland superimposed upon the whole. Inscription: 'G' with a 'V' within it. Reverse inscription: '178605, J.A.DE CAEN. P.O.1. R.N.' Fitted with a ring and red, white and blue watered-silk ribbon. P.O. De Caen was killed in action at Jutland 1916 in HMS 'Indefatigable'. See MED1270.

John Alexander de Caen (1879-1916) was born in St Helier, Jersey joining the Navy in 1897. He was a Petty Officer, 1st Class in the battle cruiser 'HMS Indefatigable' throughout his service in World War I. The ship took part in the initial bombardments of the outer forts protecting the Dardanelles in November 1914. H e died during the battle of Jutland on 31 May 1916. 'Indefatigable ' was sunk by shells from 'Von der Tann' which hit her magazines causing devastating loss of life. Only three men survived, out of a crew of 1,019.

Object Details

ID: MED1339
Collection: Coins and medals
Type: War medal
Display location: Not on display
Events: World War I, 1914-1918
Date made: ca.1918
People: Caen, John Alexander de
Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Measurements: Overall: 44 mm