1917 - WWI Award Silver Plated Cigarette Case presented to CSM John Humphrey, MM (late Pte with the 60th Battalion C.E.F.) as runner-up prize in the Lightweight Boxing Competition at Shorncliffe, England. 16 February 1917.

Object/Artifact

Musée Canadian Grenadier Guards Museum

Name/Title

Description

WWI Award Silver Plated Cigarette Case made in Birmingham UK with a silversmith date mark of 1916 (Anchor lion ‘r’) presented to CSM John Humphrey, MM (late Pte with the 60th Battalion C.E.F.) as runner-up prize in the Lightweight Boxing Competition at Shorncliffe, England. 16 February 1917. Recipient: 139114 Company Sergeant Major (WOII) John Humphrey, MM was born in Stockport, England on 20 April 1893. After joining the Imperial Army prior to 1914, he migrated to Toronto Canada and enlisted with the 75th Battalion (Mississauga), CEF on 21 July 1915. He immediately transferred to the 60th Battalion CEF on 17th June 1916. During this time, he was awarded this identified cigarette case for his boxing achievements. On April 21st 1917 Private Humphrey was transferred to the 87th Battalion (Canadian Grenadier Guards) where he continued to be promoted throughout the ranks. He was presented with CEF Warrant Officer Certificate #2299 on 3 September 1918. During WW1, CSM Humphrey was injured no less than 4 times and was one of 229 World War One CGG Members to have earned a Bravery in the Field (MM) Military Medal on 2nd May 1918. In 1919, he was selected and competed as part of the Candian Army boxing Team. He discharged and returned to Toronto, Ontario after the war and passed away in 1962.

Created By

Bertille L. Hurel

Create Date

July 6, 2022

Updated By

Lieutenant Michael Hayes-Rivet, retired.

Update Date

June 3, 2025