Description
Militia Long Service and Good Conduct Medal, EDVII, 6279 Private Alexander Thomson, 4th Battalion Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Militia.
Officially impressed: “6279 PTE A. THOMSON. 4th A. & S. MIL.”
Awarded the medal in Army Order February 1905.
Alexander Thomson was born in Kelvinhaugh, Glasgow, during 1865.
First enlisted with service number 559, as a young 19 year old Hammerman with the 4th Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders on 5th May 1884.
He continually re-engaged throughout a long career with the Militia.
After 15 years with Militia, he was finally mobilised for service in the Boer War and was embodied on 5th December 1899 for war service in South Africa.
He spent 1 year 200 days overseas in South Africa, returning home in 1901 and was awarded his war gratuity from the regiment.
Whilst he did serve in the Boer War he cannot confirm if he was issued a Queen’s South Africa medal or not.
Discharged on 7th May 1902 after finishing 18 years.
Attested for service once again with the 4th A. & S. Militia, He stated he was employed by Dunsmuir and Jackson as a Hammerman, who were at the Govan Engine Works in Glasgow and specialised in marine engines for ships.
He had attested on 25th August 1902, aged 37, having already completed a full Terms of Engagement on 7th May 1902 and was eager to re-enlist for another term.
He was present at all the yearly drills until he was discharged on 24th August 1906, his service totalling about 22 years
