Queen's South Africa 1899-1902, no clasp (Lieut: J. Hunter, V: Co: A. & S. Highrs:) nearly...

Queen’s South Africa 1899-1902, no clasp (Lieut: J. Hunter, V: Co: A. & S. Highrs:) nearly extremely fine £280-£340 --- John Hunter was born in Leith in 1878, the eldest son of iron works founder Robert Hunter of Glenfuir Mansion House, Falkirk. Educated at Falkirk High School, he fell under his father's wing and took initial employment at Portdownie Iron Works. On 27 December 1895, Hunter attested for the 4th Volunteer Battalion of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders. Appointed to "D" (Falkirk) Company as Private, he was advanced to a commission in July 1897. Sent to Chelsea Barracks in London, he secured the P.S. Certificate (distinguished) and another for knowledge of tactics. He also proved himself a crack shot at Bisley.  An eager and enthusiastic young officer, Hunter ranked amongst the first to volunteer his services at the outbreak of the Boer War. Sent to the Cape, his active service proved fleeting when he was struck down with enteric fever at Heilbron in the Free State. Evacuated to hospital, he succumbed on 30 June 1900. The Falkirk & Midland Counties Journal of 7 July 1900, adds: 'Lieut. Hunter was well-known and respected, and where his readiness in volunteering for active service was regarded as showing a praiseworthy and patriotic spirit, his death has caused widespread and profound grief, and many deeply regret the end that has thus been brought to what gave promise of being a successful career.’ Four days later, the Falkirk Herald added a brief line from his commanding officer: ‘A better soldier and a better man I never wish to meet.’ For the Great War gold memorial locket relating to the recipient’s younger brother, see Lot 569.