WW1 John V. Garbutt 19th Durhams DLI sheet brass match cover trench art

An attractive trench art brass match box cover. Some light staining and rust marks but generally good and nice item as attributed. The spine has been engraved "Arras" and the reverse has a rather good engraving of the Durham Light Infantry cap badge. The front has the soldier's name, J. Garbutt and regimental number 21/35and the battalion he was then serving with, 19th DLI.

From the battalion number 21/35 it appears as he was initially allocated to the 21st (Reserve) Battalion, Durham Light Infantry, raised at Cocken Hall on 29 July 1915. Formed as local reserve battalion from depot companies of 18th and 20th Battalions, DLI. Became 87th Training Reserve Battalion in 20th Reserve Brigade, September 1916. Given the scroll "19th DLI" below, he appears to have been posted to the Western Front to serve with them. The 19th (Service) (2nd County) was raised at West Hartlepool, on 3 March 1915. A Bantam battalion. Part of the 106th Brigade, 35th Division, moving to the 104th Brigade in February 1918. It ceased to be a Bantam unit in January 1917. The spine has been engraved "Arras" and the reverse has a rather good engraving of the DLI cap badge. Would benefit from a light clean.

A unique collectable. It would be great to find his medals. A copy of the medal card index to be provided which confirms his entitlement to a BWM / VM pair. He also served with the Labour Corps, suggesting he was wounded. Worthy of further research.

Comm DaSm

Code: 69425