Africa General Service Medal with Somaliland Clasp

The Africa General Service Medal with Somaliland clasp was awarded to RAF participants of the Somaliland Campaign. This particular medal was awarded to Aircraftman William Bumstead, a wireless operator.

British Somaliland was a Protectorate located in present-day north western Somalia. In 1920 the RAF undertook a police action against besieging forces of the Dervish kingdom, led by Mohammed Abdullah Hassan. A short period of aerial bombardment and subsequent support to ground troops led to Hassan's defeat. The benefits of the use of air power of lower cost and casualties were welcomed by military leaders and politicians.