John -- correct surname: Nearney. He attested in Dublin on 10-8-14 and served in France from 3-9-14 with 19th Infantry Brigade Train, hence entitled to a 1914 star. His pension papers exist which show that he was convicted by Field General Court Martial on 23-10-14 for absence and drunkenness, and imprisoned. He returned to duty in January 1915 and apparently was a good wheeler. He was discharged in June 1915 as no longer fit for military service. He re-enlisted in the Royal Field Artillery, number: 100787 as indicated by an Irish prisoner's roll where he is identified as a deserter -- his home address matches his pension record. He was finally discharged on 6-11-17 as physically unfit and was awarded a Silver War Badge.
An unusual and interesting history and there may be more to find!
Documents available: Medal Index Card(s); medal roll(s), SWB roll; Irish prisoner roll; pension record (7 pages)
Condition: NEF; please see photographs for detail
