France, Colonial. An Order Of The Black Star Of Benin, Grand Cross certificate_of_authenticity Signature on Post War Photo:

Signature on Post War Photo: Bodo Spranz

this soldier was hit in the heart by a fragment of a shell

In sterling silver with gilt centre wreath

reverse illustrating an open-ended wreath of laurel and olive branches

that "About week & half ago (he) was taken with pain in his right side & felt feverish at night

France, Colonial. An Order Of The Black Star Of Benin, Grand Cross certificate_of_authenticity Signature on Post War Photo:Dahomey (now Benin): Grand Cross: four piece construction, hallmarked on the ring, silver gilt with blue, white, black, green and red enamels, measuring 54. 5 mm x 85 mm inclusive of its wreath and ball suspension, on a shortened sash; and Breast Star: three piece construction, silver gilt with blue, white and black enamelled insignia, mounted to a eight pointed star base, hallmarked and French maker marked on the pin, 86. 5 mm x 87 mm, vertical