Sweetheart brooch : Squadron Sergeant Major J Black, 13 Hussars

Circular, brass sweetheart brooch with a voided roman numeral 'XIII' in the centre within a brass circle bearing the words 'VIRET IN ETERNUM' (it flourishes forever). Around the circle, is a laurel wreath surmounted by a queen's crown. Beneath the circle is 'HUSSARS' in a horizontal bar. A brooch pin fastening is ayttached to the back.

Associated with the service of John Black. Black, of Aberdeen Scotland enlisted in 13 Hussars in the 1880s and saw service with this regiment during the Boer War. The 13th Hussars were deployed to South Africa in the autumn of 1899 and served as part of General Buller's relieving force in Natal. In mid December the regiment saw action during Buller's attempt to force the passage of Tugela at Colenso.

Serving in South Africa for the remainder of the war 13 Hussars returned to England in October 1902. Two years later the unit relocated to India where they served until the outbreak of the First World War. On 1 July 1907 Black was recommended for the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal, which was gazetted in 1908.

During the First World War Black served with 1/1 Warwickshire Yeomanry (WY) however it is unknown when he transferred to this unit. 1/1 WY became part of the Imperial Mounted Division in February 1917 and served with Australian troops at the Second Battle of Gaza. As the adjutant to his regiment Black was Mentioned in Despatches for his actions during this battle with his recommendation from his commanding officer reading:

'During the 2nd Battle of Gaza (19th April 1917) this officer was of the greatest assistance to me throughout the day. He carried out his duties under continuous rifle and shell fire with total disregard for his own safety.'

John Black's son - John Henry Black enlisted in the AIF in Queensland on 2 February 1915. He served with 25 Battalion at Gallipoli and later in France.

A telegram was sent to Black's family informing them of his death on 5 February 1920 in Gibralter from pneumonia.