A fine Sutlej Medal 1845-1846 for Moodkee with clasps for Ferozeshuhur, Aliwal, and Sobraon, awarded to Corporal William Beckett, 50th Queen’s Own Regiment of Foot, who was present during the Gawalior campaign and then in the First Sikh War where he was present at every major action, being killed in final action at Sobraon, on 10th February 1846.
Sutlej Medal 1845-1846, reverse for Moodkee 1845, 3 Clasps: Ferozeshuhur, Aliwal, Sobraon; (CORPl. WILLIAM BECKETT, 50TH REGT).
Condition. Highlights polished, now attractively toned.
In November 1845 the Sikh Army crossed the Sutlej River into British territory. The 50th received orders to march and join force with the brigades forming to oppose them. Four bitter actions were fought.
-Moodkee on 18th Dec 1845 resulted in 22 killed and 100 wounded.
- Ferozeshuhur on 21st Dec 1845 resulted in 24 killed and 92 wounded.
- Aliwal on 10th Feb 1846 resulted in 9 killed and 68 wounded.
- Sobraon on 10th Feb 1846 resulted in 38 killed and 68 wounded.
In this last action Corporal Beckett was killed, one of 555 casualties sustained by the 50th in this short war.