Canada General Service Medal to Cpl. Roche

Allied Forces > Commonwealth > Awards & Medals >

Canada, Fenian Raids - Canada General Service Medal (CGSM) with Fenian Raid 1870 Clasp. Awarded to Corporal James A. Roche of the Grand Trunk Railway Brigade for his service from May 25 to July 5, at Montreal. Roche is listed on the medal roll - Item Number: 28930. The Grand Trunk Railway Brigade, played a critical support role by securing infrastructure and aiding the rapid deployment of Canadian forces. Their efforts helped ensure that the Fenians could not disrupt key transportation networks.

Instituted January 1, 1899, the Canadian General Service Medal was awarded to members of the Imperial and Canadian forces who had taken part in the suppression of the Fenian Raids of 1866 and 1870 and Red River Expedition of 1870. It is constructed out of a die stamped silver base. The obverse features the left-facing effigy of Queen Victoria, wearing a diadem, veil and the Order of the Garter, above a small “T.B.” (designer – Thomas Brock) all surrounded by “Victoria Regina et Imperatrix”. The reverse displays the Canadian Red Ensign, floating in the breeze, surrounded by a wreath of maple leaves Below “Canada”. The rim is officially impressed in the correct Canadian-style reading: “Cpl. J. A. Roche . G.T.R.A.” -. To the top is a double-toe claw mount, with a straight swiveling suspender that attaches the clasp, in roller chain fashion. The clasps read: “Fenian Raid 1870” (5,925 recipients). There is a 5 inch long red and white ribbon running through the clasp and suspender. The medal measures 1 7/16 inches in diameter. Nice patina.