1914 Trio Pte Hansford 1st Devonshire & Hamps

1914 Star with copy clasp named 5282 PTE W HANSFORD 1/DEVON R, British War & Victory Medals named 5282 PTE W HANSFORD DEVON R.

William was with the 1st Battalion Devonshire Regiment and entered France on 27 August 1914. They were placed in the 8th Brigade of the 3rd Division on 14 September 1914, and then on 30 September 1914 replaced the 2nd Suffolks in the 14th Brigade of the 5th Division, part of II Corps. They were soon involved in heavy fighting at La Bassee – Armentieres on 17 October 1914. The Devons were sent to protect Givenchy. They suffered heavy casualties but managed to hold their position at La Bassee for 16 days against continual German attacks. They were with the 15th Division throughout 1915 and were involved in the 2nd Battle of Ypres and the capture of Hill 60.

Hansford was later promoted to Serjeant and later transferred to the Hampshire Regiment. He was discharged on 16 Jan 1916 as time expired.