Full medal write up
SOUTH AFRICA 1877-9, CLASP, 1877-8 ‘LIEUT. V. H. MAHER. 88TH. FOOT.’
Valentine Herbert Maher was born ibn Dublin on 10 August 1846 , the only son of Nicholas Valentine Maher, an Irish Repeal Association Politician and Member of Parliament who represented Tipperary county from 1844.
Valantine was commissioned Second Lieutenant, by purchase, in the 2nd Battalion, 17th Regiment of Foot on 3 April 1867. Having transferred to the 1st Battalion, he was promoted Lieutenant, by purchase, on 14 January 1871. Having served in North America, Ireland, The Channel Island and England, he exchanged into 88th Connaught Rangers on 2 February 1872.
With the 88th, he served with the Regiment in South Africa throughout the 9th Xhosa War 1877-78, and during the latter part of the campaign was in commanded of a mounted troop of the Regiment.
In his journal, Major Crealock notes that on 18 April 1878, Maher was in command of a mounted escort of the 88th that joined up with The Diamond Fields Horse at Green River. It also notes that Maher had been in command of a Mfengu detachment in February 1878.
Haher was promoted Captain on 27 August 1879 and transferred to the Reserve of Officers on Retired Pay on 19 February 1887, being granted the honorary rank of Major.
Condition about VF, small EK, suspension slightly loose. Attractive patina and original ribbon.
The Connaught Rangers are always a desirable regiment.