George V Indian Army Officers Sword North Africa Casualty

A good George V Indian Army (GRI) 1897 Pattern Officers Sword, attributed to Lieutenant Colonel Alfred Tyrer.

The following taken from the February 1945 edition of "The Barrovian", the magazine of King William's College: 

"ALFRED TYRER (1922-26)

Born November, 1908. Colbourne. Sergeant in O.T.C.; Marksman; Librarian; English Essay Prize; Cert. "A".

One of the most remark- able boys of later years. He came to school, a rebel against discipline, who earned many a hard knock in fighting against tradition. But during his last two years achieved a passion for the Army and became as smart an N.C.O. as the O.T.C. ever produced, almost a martinet for discipline — a complete turn round.

A boy of great literary gifts, and a great fondness for France and the French language. Made many tours of France with L.D., and was thoroughly at home there. A magnificent report from Sandhurst. Joined the Indian Army and was looked upon as an officer with a great future.

Seconded to work with the French Army Staff in North Africa on account of his linguistic ability and military brilliance, but was killed in North Africa."

Lieutenant Colonel Alfred Tyrer (SN: A/1289) of the 3rd Battalion. 11th Sikh Regiment, attached  20th British Military Mission.

He must have taken part in Operation Oration, culminating in the battle of Enfida (24th April to the fall of Tunis on the 7th of May 1943) which was the final battle of the North African campaign. 

He is recorded as having died on the Died 28 April 1943 and is buried at the Enfidaville Cemetery in Tunisia.

His service record is available to view at the British Library: HERE.

A link to his CWGC listing can be found HERE. 

The regulation 1897 pattern guard guard with distinctive crowned GRI cypher, with domed pommel and fully chequered backpiece. The shagreen grip is complete, in good condition and retaining the twistwire binding. The plated finish with some wear, mainly to the interior of the guard. The sword retains its brown leather sword knot. 

The 1892 pattern single fullered blade length with a length of 32.5 inches. It is marked at the ricasso "Wilkinson Sword Co Ltd London", and with thier Hexagonal "Best proof" slug with "HW" to the other. It carries thier serial number to the spine, dating this example to 1935.

One panel etched with the original owners initials "A.T.", along with another vacant inscription panel.  Alongside the crowned GRI cypher, the blade is well etched with foliate engraving, laurel wreaths and the royal coat of arms. The blade is generally bright and in good condition, the etching remaining clear and legible, with some minor staining.

The sword is housed in its original brown leather field service scabbard, which is pleasingly good condition, retaining good colour and polish, and being marked to "The Wilkinson Sword Co".

A very good example of the harder to find GRI Infantry Officers sword, and with an interesting owner, who is worthy of further research. 

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