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Sir Harry Smith Medal for Gallantry 1851, awarded to Paul Arendt (metal)
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Sir Harry Smith Medal for Gallantry 1851, awarded to Paul Arendt (metal)
5920795 Sir Harry Smith Medal for Gallantry 1851, awarded to Paul Arendt (metal) by British School, (19th century); National Army Museum, London; (add.info.: Sir Harry Smith Medal for Gallantry 1851, awarded to Paul Arendt.
During the 8th Cape Frontier War (1850-1853), Major-General Sir Harry Smith, the Governor and Commander-in-Chief at the Cape, found himself besieged in Fort Cox by Gaikas under Chief Sandilli. The fort was situated inland from Kingwilliamstown. Several attempts to relieve it were unsuccessful.
Smith, worried that being trapped by uncivilised Kaffirs would affect the Colonys morale and cause the defection of loyal tribes, decided to fight his way out. Escorted by about 250 men of the Cape Mounted Riflemen, he succeeded in getting through the Gaika lines, and safely reached Kingwilliamstown. Impressed by the showing of the Cape Mounted Riflemen under his command, Smith awarded them a special medal in recognition of their conduct. Only around 30 of these medals are know to exist today.); © National Army Museum
Media ID 25057834
© National Army Museum / Bridgeman Images
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph showcases the prestigious Sir Harry Smith Medal for Gallantry, awarded to Paul Arendt in 1851. The medal, crafted from metal, is a testament to the bravery and heroism displayed by Arendt during the 8th Cape Frontier War (1850-1853). During this tumultuous time, Major-General Sir Harry Smith found himself besieged in Fort Cox by Gaikas under Chief Sandilli. Despite several unsuccessful attempts to relieve the fort, Smith was determined not to let his men be trapped by uncivilized Kaffirs. Worried about the potential impact on morale and loyalty of other tribes, he made a bold decision. Escorted by approximately 250 men of the Cape Mounted Riflemen, Smith fought his way through enemy lines and successfully reached Kingwilliamstown. Impressed by their unwavering courage and dedication under his command, Smith awarded these brave soldiers with a special medal as recognition for their exceptional conduct. Today, only around 30 of these rare medals are known to exist. This particular print captures one such medal held at the National Army Museum in London. Its historical significance cannot be overstated as it represents an era of conflict and valor that shaped both colonial South Africa and military history at large. Through this powerful image captured by Bridgeman Images for Fine Art Finder, we are reminded of the sacrifices made by individuals like Paul Arendt who exemplified extraordinary gallantry in service to their country.
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