Pte J Cochram, 1462 8th Hussars, 2nd Afghan war medal

[jonpipjim]

I have an Afghan medal inscribed to an individual. The National Archives site does not appear to have any detail. Was this unit Irish, if so how do I trace the individual. The inscription reads: 1462 Pte J Cochram 8th Hussars. Can anyone give me any information or guidance, please? Thanks

[colenso]

Hi jonpipjim,

By way of information your man Cochrane served in Afghanistan with the service troop 8th Hussars, and was subsequently awarded the medal (no clasp). He is not shown as wounded, KIA, or died of disease so one can only presume that he returned back home safely with his regiment.

In brief, the 8th Hussars were stationed at Muttra, after which they were ordered to the front proceeding to Peshawar with exception of one troop. In the middle of April 1880 they marched to Pesh Bolak, and there remained forming part of the flying squad. In September 1880, they made their way back to Rowal Pindi.

In answer to your question, yes the 8th Hussars were the Kings Royal Irish.

Hope this may clarify some of your questions.

regards

colenso