Hunter, Arthur

Sergeant Arthur Patrick Hunter

was born at The Diamond, Ballycastle on 11th July 1881, the son of Robert Hunter, Publican and Margaret Ann Hunter nee McCotter. They had married on 6th March 1888 at Maghera Presbyterian Church.

Arthur joined Northern Bank in 1897.

In 1901, Arthur was boarding with the Moore family (Jane, Annie & Jeannie) in house 9, Lisburn Street, Hillsborough, Co. Down. His occupation is recorded as a Bank Clerk.  

By 1911, Arthur was living in house 67, Beechwood Avenue, Londonderry, Co. Londonderry with his wife, Mabel and son, William Kenneth (1). His occupation is recorded as a Bank Cashier. A nurse domestic servant, Margery Murray is also present in the house. 

Arthur may have been working in the Londonderry branch

Arthur was based in Head Office when he enlisted into the 8th Bn. Royal Irish Rifles with Service Number 8/14801 as a Private.  

Arthur Hunter - Medal Index Card

His first theatre of war is recorded as France from 5th October 1915. He transferred into the 16th Bn. Royal Irish Rifles & 13th Bn Royal Irish Rifles and was later promoted to Sergeant. 

Arthur saw action at the Somme 1916 (Thiepval), Messines 1917, Ypres 1917 and the German Retreat (Courtrai) 1918. He was injured and suffered a gunshot wound. Demobilisation came in February 1919. 

Arthur was awarded the 1915 Star, the British Victory Medal and the British War Medal.

Arthur Hunter - Medal Roll