An outstanding Maharajpoor Star to Private James Hulmes, 39th Foot, who was severely wounded by a Sword Cut to the back of the neck during the battle of Maharjpoor on 29th December 1843, then later, having volunteered for service with the 80th Foot, was wounded again on 14 April 1852, receiving a Gun Shot wound to the left thigh in the Storming and Capture of Rangoon, during the Second Burma War.
Maharajpoor Star 1843 (Private Jame Hulmes, H.M. 39th Regt,) fitted with original clip as issued, suspended from a split ring and ribbon.
Condition: Extremely Fine.
James Hulmes, a tailor by trade, was born in the parish of Hale, near the town of Newcastle, in the county of Stafford. He attested for the 39th Foot at Newcastle on 2 Feb 1833 at the age of eighteen. He went on to serve some 20 years, 29 days, of which over eighteen were spent in the East Indies.
He volunteered for service with the 80th Regiment on 1 March 1846 on completion of 13 years and 29 days service with the 39th.
His service papers state:
Present at Maharajpore, December 29th 1843. Wounded Severely by Sword Cut to the Back of the Neck at “Maharajpore” With the Army of Burma 1852 was present at the Capture of Martaban, 5 April, and Storming and Capture of Rangoon 14 April 1852. Wounded.
The Medical Report prior to his discharge states:
Private James Hulmes.
Is recommended for discharge from the Service By the Field Surgeon of the Army of Ava in consequence of the effects of a Gun Shot Wound of the left thigh received in Action at Rangoon on 14th April 1852.
The Principal Medical Officer gave the opinion:
After examination I am of the opinion that James Hulmes is, in consequence of total loss of power over the left leg from a gunshot wound in the thigh, unfit for further service.
Hulmes was discharged at Chatham on 26 July 1853, age 39.
