Temperance Medal awarded to Private J H Smith, Royal Munster Fusiliers, 1915 circa (metal)

Temperance Medal awarded to Private J H Smith, Royal Munster Fusiliers, 1915 circa. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, high rates of drunkenness led to temperance groups being set up to encourage soldiers not to drink. This example was issued by the Royal Army Temperance Association for 20 years' abstinence. It includes the inscription ‘Watch and be Sober’. The presence of temperance campaigners and other 'do-gooders' behind the lines in the rest areas of the Western Front was not welcomed by all officers and men. Many understood that alcohol and tobacco were important in offering relief from physical and psychological stress. Indeed, both were issued to men as part of their rations. Despite this, Smith earned 12 different medals for his commitment to the Army Temperance Association.