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Officer casualties, surname S
Sale,
Lieutenant A A, Tasmanian Mounted Contingent (Bushmen)
He died
April 9th, 1901, of wounds received in action the previous day at Pietersburg.
Salkeld,
Lieutenant Philip, Cape Mounted Police
He was
killed during the siege of Kimberley. He was a son of Colonel Charles Salkeld,
Royal Artillery.
Salmon,
Captain R W, Victorian Mounted Infantry
Died of
enteric at Naauwpoort, March 16th, 1900.
Salt,
Lieutenant George Edmund Stevenson, 1st Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers
He died of
enteric April 3rd, 1900, at Modder Spruit, near Ladysmith. He was the third
son of Sir Thomas and Lady Salt of Weeping Cross, Stafford. Lieutenant Salt
was born in February 1873, and educated at Charterhouse. He entered the Royal
Welsh Fusiliers in December 1895, being promoted Lieutenant March 1898. He
accompanied his battalion to South Africa in October 1899, and served with the
Ladysmith Relief Force. He was present at the battle of Colenso and the
subsequent fighting on the Tugela. His name was inscribed on the tablet in
the War Memorial Cloister at Charterhouse.
Salter,
Captain Philip Stanley, 7th Battalion Imperial Yeomanry
He was
killed in action in the attack on Colonel Kekewich's column, at Rooival,
Transvaal, April 11th, 1902. He was the son of Philip Salter of Newlands,
Broadclyst, near Exeter. He joined the Devonshire Company of the Imperial
Yeomanry in February 1900, and was promoted Lieutenant in February 1901, and
Captain in July. He served in South Africa from early in the war, and had
been wounded at Kranspoort when helping a wounded comrade.
Sanders,
Major Francis Alexander, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers
He was
killed in action February 24th, 1900, in the operations on the Tugela. He was
born in December 1855, and entered the 27th Foot (the Royal Inniskilling
Fusiliers) from the Cavan Militia in February 1878, being promoted Lieutenant
November 1878, Captain February 1885 and Major April 1896. He was adjutant of
his battalion from February 1879-86. Major Sanders, who was 2nd in
command of his battalion, was present at the battle of Colenso and all the
fighting on the Tugela up to the time of his death. He was buried at the foot
of the hill where he fell, beside Lieutenant Colonel Thackeray and Lieutenant
Stuart. A marble headstone was erected in their memory by comrades of all
ranks of the 1st battalion. Major Sanders' name was inscribed on an obelisk
twenty seven feet high, erected on the hill (commonly called Harts or
Inniskilling or Railway Hill) in memory of all those of the Inniskillings who
fell February 23rd and 24th, 1900. He was mentioned in despatches, LG,
February 8th, 1901, (See Lieutenant Colonel Thackeray)
Sanders,
Lieutenant Lionel Salter, Imperial Light Horse
He was
killed in action near Klip Drift, July 31st, 1901.
Sandford,
Captain Harry Coddington, Indian Staff Corps
He was
killed in action at Game Tree in the sortie from Mafeking, December 28th,
1899. He was a member of the Shropshire family of that name residing at
Sandford, near Whitechurch, was born in March 1869, and educated at
Allhallowes School, Honiton, and at Clifton. He entered the Royal Artillery,
July 1888, and was transferred to the Indian Staff Corps, March 1890. He
served in Burma in 1892, receiving the medal and clasp. At Mafeking he was
attached to the Mounted Infantry. Queen Victoria showed her sympathy with his
family by requesting that his photograph might be sent to her. This officer's
death is referred to in the despatch of Major General Baden-Powell from
Mafeking, dated May 18th, 1900, LG, February 8th, 1901. (See Captain
Vernon)
Sargent,
Lieutenant Henry Gresham Forbes, Indian Staff Corps
He died of
cholera at Sangor, India, on July 23rd, 1900, on his way to rejoin his
regiment after service in South Africa. He was born in January 1871, and was
appointed 2nd Lieutenant in the Lancashire Fusiliers, November 1891, being
promoted Lieutenant December 1892. Joining the Indian Staff Corps in August
1893, he served in Thorneycroft's Mounted Infantry and was present at Spion
Kop, where with a party of 29 men it is stated that he rendered splendid
service, half of their number being killed.
Saunders-Knox-Gore, Captain Cecil Henry, Thorneycroft's Mounted Infantry, late
6th Inniskilling Dragoons and Queen's Bays
He was
killed in action at Spion Kop, January 24th, 1900. He was the third son of
Major General Saunders-Knox-Gore, RA, of Belleek Manor,
Ballina, Mayo, and Ardmore, Torquay, who died in 1902. Captain
Saunders-Knox-Gore was born in February 1862. He entered the army from the RMC passing out with honours, January 1883, and first served in the West India
Regiment, but exchanged into the Inniskilling Dragoons, November 1885, and
afterwards into the Queen's Bays, retiring in 1895. When the war broke out he
offered his services which were accepted and he was appointed Captain in
Thorneycroft's Mounted Infantry. He was present at the action at Acton Homes,
and when he fell at Spion Kop an officer reports, "he was last seen standing
up, pointing with his hand, and encouraging his men, at that moment a Boer
bullet passed through his heart". Captain Saunders-Knox-Gore was buried on
Spion Kop, close to where he fell. Colonel Thorneycroft wrote concerning him
"His memory will ever remain dear to his comrades". Captain
Saunders-Knox-Gore was mentioned in despatches, LG, February 8th, 1901,
(See Lieutenant Ellis)
Saunderson,
Captain Llewellyn Traherne, Rifle Brigade
He died at
Standerton, April 24th, 1902, of wounds received in action two days
previously. He was the eldest son of Mr and Lady Rachel Saunderson, of
Dromkeen House, Cavan, and of St Hilary, Glamorganshire. Captain Saunderson
was born in June 1870, and entered the Rifle Brigade in October 1890, being
promoted Lieutenant June 1892, and Captain October 1897. When war was
declared he was serving with the 4th Battalion of his regiment in Dublin, but
volunteering for active service he was sent in March 1901, to South Africa for
duty with the Mounted Infantry and served there until his death.
Savory,
Captain Albert, 4th Hussars, attached to the South African Light Horse
He died of
wounds received in action South-West of Dalmanutha, August 23rd, 1900. He was
the eldest son of Albert Savory of Sun Rising, Banbury, was born in July 1878,
and educated at Winchester. He entered the 4th Hussars in October 1892, being
promoted Lieutenant March 1894. He had previously served in the operations on
the North-West Frontier of India, 1897-98, with the Tirah Expeditionary Force,
and was awarded the medal with clasp. At the time of his death he was serving
as a captain in the South African Light Horse.
Schleswig-Holstein, Prince Christian Victor of, Major His Highness Prince
Christian Victor Albert Ludwig Ernst Anton, heir of Norway, Duke of
Schleswig-Holstein, Stormarn and the Dithmarscher and of Oldenburg, GCB, GCVO,
4th Battalion King's Royal Rifle Corps
He died at
Pretoria of enteric October 29th, 1900. He was born at Windsor Castle, April
14th, 1867, and was educated at Wellington and Magdalen College, Oxford. He
was an excellent sportsman and cricketer, and at Wellington was in the eleven
for three years, during one of which (1885) he was the captain. He was a
Master of Arts by diploma of the University of Oxford. Prince Christian
Victor entered the King's Royal Rifle Corps from the Royal Military College in
August, 1888, being promoted Lieutenant June 1890, Captain December 3rd, 1896,
and brevet Major on the following day. During his military career he had seen
much active service, his first experience being in the Hazara Expedition,
1891, was mentioned in despatches, LG, October 2Oth, 1891, and received the
medal with clasp. He also served in the Miranzai Expedition, 1891 (clasp),
and the Isazai Expedition, 1892. He next served in the Ashanti Expedition,
1895-96, being mentioned in despatches, was granted the star and promoted to a
brevet Majority. He was also in the Nile Expedition of 1898, mentioned in
despatches, LG, September 30th, 1898, and was granted the 4th Class of the
Osmanieh and the medal. During this expedition, on one occasion he had to
jump and swim ashore from a sinking gun-boat, with the loss of practically all
his belongings. In 1899 Prince Christian Victor had been specially selected
for the Staff College, but on the war breaking out he volunteered for active
service, and went out to South Africa as assistant staff officer to the 2nd
Infantry Brigade. He was present at all the fighting up to the Relief of
Ladysmith, including the battle of Colenso, and the actions at Spion Kop, Vaal
Kranz, Monte Christo, and Pieter's Hill. At the battle of Colenso a bullet
passed through his wallet. He was afterwards present at Alleman's Nek and the
advance into the Transvaal. Prince Christian was mentioned in despatches, LG,
February 8th, 1901, also in the despatch of Field Marshal Earl Roberts, LG,
April 16th, 1901, in the following words, "The much to be regretted death of
His Highness occurred before I had forwarded the recommendation for reward,
which he so well deserved. His sterling qualities as a soldier, his unfailing
courtesy and attention to his duties had endeared him to all with whom he came
in contact, and his early death is a real loss to the army". A statue to the
memory of Prince Christian Victor, was erected at Windsor near the foot of the
hundred steps leading to Windsor Castle from Thames Street. The statue
represented the Prince standing bare-headed, with one foot on a boulder and
both hands resting on the hilt of his sword. Below was an inscription, with
shields right and left bearing the Prince's coat of arms on one side, and the
badge of his regiment on the other.
See his entry for the DSO.
Schnadhorst,
Lieutenant Frank Gladstone, Kitchener's Fighting Scouts
He died
October 22nd, 1901, of wounds received in action at Heilbron, ORC, on the 4th.
He was the youngest son of Francis Schnadhorst of Birmingham. Lieutenant
Schnadhorst was twenty one years of age, educated at Leys School, Cambridge,
and Malvern, and served continuously for eighteen months in South Africa. He
had been granted a commission as and Lieutenant in the Lancashire Fusiliers
from June 1901, for the good service he had rendered, but this advancement was
afterwards cancelled, at his own request, as he preferred to serve with the
Fighting Scouts. He had also held a commission as Lieutenant in the Commander
in Chief's Bodyguard.
Schreiber,
Lieutenant Clare Basil, 66th Battery, Royal Field Artillery
He was
killed in action at the battle of Colenso, December 15th, 1899. He was the
son of Percy Schreiber, of the Royal Scots. He was born December 1873, and
entered the Royal Artillery, from the Lancashire Artillery Militia, July 1895,
being promoted Lieutenant July 1898. He proceeded to South Africa with his
battery in October 1899, and served with the Natal Field Force. At the battle
of Colenso Lieutenant Schreiber was instantaneously killed. He was mentioned
in despatches, LG, February 8th, 1901, (See Captain Goldie)
Schwabe,
Lieutenant Horace Foster, 2nd Battalion Imperial Yeomanry
He died of
typhlitis at Johannesburg, September 25th, 1901. He was the son of H A
Schwabe of Lymm, Cheshire, and was twenty five years of age. Lieutenant
Schwabe joined the 103rd Company Imperial Yeomanry in April 1901 with the rank
of Lieutenant in the army.
Scobell,
Lieutenant John Francis, 1st Battalion Leicester Regiment
He died of
enteric at Vrede, March 6th, 1901. He was the eldest son of Reverend John F
Scobell, was born in June 1877, and educated at Marlborough. He entered the
Leinster Regiment from the 4th Battalion South Staffordshire Regiment,
December 1897, being promoted Lieutenant May 1900. On the outbreak of the
war, Lieutenant Scobell was serving with his battalion in Halifax, Nova
Scotia. It was, however, brought home to Aldershot for mobilisation, and left
for South Africa in April 1901, Lieutenant Scobell accompanying it and serving
with it until his death. His name was inscribed on a tablet placed in
Marlborough College Chapel in memory of all Marlburians who fell in the war.
Scott,
Captain Henry Farquhar, 3rd Battalion Royal Berkshire Regiment
He was
killed in action near Hout Kop, June 14th, 1901. He was educated at Eton,
entered his regiment in April 1897, and was granted the temporary rank of
Captain in the army March 1901, on being employed on special service with the
Mounted Infantry in South Africa.
Scott,
Commandant
When war
broke out, was at Vryburg, the capital of British Bechuanaland. The
townspeople sympathised with the Boers, but Commandant Scott tried to organise
the defence of the town. He then called for volunteers, but got little
encouragement, only six men responding. Having no artillery, and getting no
sympathy, and being opposed by influential citizens, he was compelled to
abandon his charge to the invaders. He then, in great disappointment at his
inability to hold Vryburg, rode south with his small detachment of police. He
died on his way to reach the British forces.
Scott-Turner,
Captain and Brevet Major Henry, Royal Highlanders
He was
killed in action at Carter's Ridge, Kimberley, November 28th 1899. He was the
son of Major Scott Turner, formerly of the 69th Regiment. He was born in May
1867 and educated at Clifton College. He entered the Royal Highlanders as 2nd
Lieutenant in December 1887 and was promoted Lieutenant May 1890, Captain May
24th, 1898 and brevet Major on the following day. He served in Matabeleland,
1893-94, and also in 1896, when he was adjutant and paymaster of the
Matabeleland Relief Force. Major Turner was mentioned in despatches March
9th, 1897, and granted a brevet Majority for his services. Previous to the
South African War Major Turner was serving under the British South African
Company but in October 1899, was seconded for special service, and proceeded
to Kimberley and took part in the defence of the town. He had been wounded
three days before he was killed while leading a sortie, which was most
successful, thirty three Boers being captured. Recovering, he again commanded
a second sortie, and fell while directing his men. Colonel Kekewich in his
despatch of February 15th, 1900, mentions Major Scott Turner's brilliant
services, his energy, and courage; and adds "in him the army has lost a most
valuable officer". The De Beers Company erected, on Carter's Ridge, a
monument consisting of a cairn 20 feet high with a slab in the centre, in
memory of Major Scott Turner and others who fell in the sortie on November
26th, 1899. On the slab are engraved the names of all who were killed.
Seagrim,
Captain Dudley Gillum, psc, Royal Garrison Artillery
He died of
an abscess of the liver at Cape Town, May 15th, 1900. He was born July 1867,
educated at Clifton College, and entered the Royal Artillery in July 1886,
being promoted Captain July 1897. He had qualified as an interpreter in
French. He served with the Burmese Expedition, 1885-89, receiving the medal
with two clasps; with the Zhob Valley Expedition in 1890; and with the Isazai
Field Force, 1892. He also served with the Waziristan Expedition under Sir
William Lockhart, 1894-95, including the delimitation escort and attack on
camp at Wano, for which he received a clasp. He was appointed March 30th,
1899, ADC to the Lieutenant General commanding in the Punjab, but volunteering
for active service was selected for special duty in South Africa in January
1900, and served there until his death.
Seale,
Captain John Whiteaway, Cape Police
He died of
enteric at Wynberg on March 5th, 1902.
Seeds,
Captain James Thomson, 5th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles
He died of
dysentery and heart failure at Kroonstad, June 1st, 1901. He was the son of W
Seeds of Ballymott House, near Downpatrick, was born in October 1870, and
educated at the High School, Dublin. He was called to the bar in 1895, took
his BA degree in the same year, MA 1898, and LLD 1899, at Trinity College,
Dublin. He entered the 5th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles, February 1899, was
promoted Lieutenant May 1900, Captain March 1901. He volunteered for active
service and proceeded to South Africa in April 1901, with his battalion. His
name was inscribed on a tablet erected by his comrades in Down Cathedral in
memory of all belonging to the 5th Battalion Royal Irish Rifles who fell
during the war.
Selous,
Lieutenant Harry Dyson, 2nd Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment
He was
killed in action at Paardeberg, February 18th, 1900. He was born in July
1873, and educated at University College School and Brighton College. He
entered the Bedfordshire Regiment in March 1894, being promoted Lieutenant
September 1896. He was serving at the depot in 1899, and joined his battalion
in South Africa in January 1900.
Senior,
Captain Guy, Royal Marine Artillery
He was
killed at Graspan, November 25th, 1899 in the splendid advance made by the
Naval Brigade at that action. He was born in December 1875, and was appointed
2nd Lieutenant September 1893, being promoted Lieutenant July 1894, and
Captain in June 1899. He belonged to HMS Monarch. Captain Senior was killed
instantaneously while leading his men to attack the Boer position. He was
first buried near Graspan, close to where he fell, but on November 26th, the
day after the battle, his body was moved to Enslin Station, beside Major
Plumbe and Commander Ethelston. A cross marked their graves. The name of
Captain Senior was inscribed on the monument in the Cambridge Enclosure, St
James's Park, erected by their comrades of both corps to the memory of all
ranks of the Royal Marine Artillery and Light Infantry who fell in South
Africa and China.
Seymour,
Major L J, Cape Pioneer Railway Regiment
He was
killed in action at Zand River, July 14th, 1900. He was an Australian by
birth, but was well known in South Africa. At an early age he was consulting
engineer of a South American firm, and afterwards served in a similar capacity
in the De Beers mines, at Kimberley. Thence he went to Johannesburg where he
was employed as chief engineer by Messrs Eckstein. At the outbreak of the war
he raised the Pioneer Railway Company, chiefly composed of mining employees of
the Rand, and was appointed Major. He was killed while superintending the
repair of the railway line to Johannesburg. In the report from Virginia, June
15th, 1900, Lieutenant Colonel Capper, describing the action at Zand River,
mentions that he "especially deplored the death of Major Seymour, whose loss
will not only be felt by us as a regiment, but by the whole of South Africa".
He was killed while advancing with the extended line through the bush to clear
out the snipers;
LG, February 8th, 1901. Major Seymour was
twice mentioned in despatches, LG, September 10th, 1901.
Shafto,
Lieutenant Charles Duncombe, 1st Battalion Durham Light Infantry
He was
killed in action in the operations on the Upper Tugela, February 5th, 1900.
He was born June 1878, entered his regiment in February 1898, and was promoted
Lieutenant January 1900. He accompanied his battalion to South Africa in
October 1899, and served with the Natal Field Force.
Shand,
Lieutenant William Jorie, 1st Battalion Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
He died
December 22nd, 1901, of wounds received in action at Tafelkop, ORC, two days
previously. He was born March 1878, educated at Rugby, and entered the
Cameron Highlanders from the 3rd Battalion Highland Light Infantry in January
1899, being promoted Lieutenant the following December. He was adjutant of
Rimington's Guides, and subsequently attached to Damant's Horse. Lieutenant
Shand was mentioned in despatches, LG, April 25th, 1902 for having, with
Captain Webb, "charged forward to a ridge which they held till all but two of
their men were killed or wounded, thereby in a great measure saving the
guns". Of seven non-commissioned officers and men, mentioned in despatches
for having taken part in this charge, four were killed.
Sharpe, 2nd
Lieutenant James Minot, 4th Battalion North Staffordshire Regiment (3rd King's
Own Stafford Militia)
Died at
Carnarvon, Cape Colony, February 33rd, 1902, of wounds received in action near
Carnarvon two days previously. He was the eldest son of James Sharpe of the
War Office, and was twenty years of age. He joined his regiment in October
1901 He had served in the war, 1900-1901, in the Imperial Light Horse.
Shaw,
Lieutenant Percy Costello, 3rd Battalion Royal Munster Fusiliers
He died of
enteric May 28th, 1900, at Bloemfontein. He entered his regiment October
1899, and proceeded with his battalion to South Africa in April 1900.
Shaw-Stewart,
Captain Houston Michael, DSO, 17th Lancers
He was
accidentally drowned July 28th, 1901 while on voyage home from South Africa in
SS Canada. He was the son of Sir Michael Robert Shaw-Stewart of Ardgowan,
Greenock, by his marriage with Lady Octavia Grosvenor, and therefore a
grandson of Richard, second Marquis of Westminster. He was born in October
1871, and educated at Eton, where he was second for the Jelf Prize in 1877.
He then went to Christ Church, Oxford. Captain Shaw-Stewart entered the 17th
Lancers from the 4th Battalion Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders in December
1894, being promoted Lieutenant November 1895, and Captain January 1900. He
went out to South Africa with his regiment in February 1900, and saw much
service during the war. He was mentioned in despatches, LG, September
10th, 1901, and was awarded the DSO. His brother officers placed a tablet to
his memory in St John's Episcopal Church, Greenock, as a token of their regard
and affection.
See his DSO entry.
Shea, 2nd
Lieutenant Geoffrey Norman, 1st Battalion Royal Munster Fusiliers
He was
killed at
Schotland West, Kroonstad District, April 20th, 1902. He was the son
of Mrs Shea, Village House, Bradfield, was born in December 1880, and educated
at Bradfield College, where he played in the football team and was Lieutenant
in the College Rifle Corps. He passed direct from Bradfield into Sandhurst,
and passed out first on the list from the Royal Military College in December
1900, gaining the Sword of Honour and the Victoria Medal. 2nd Lieutenant Shea
entered the army January 1901, was appointed to the Royal Munster Fusiliers
March 1901, and served with them in South Africa up to the time of his death.
Shepherd,
Captain Charles, South African Light Horse
He died of
enteric at Springfontein, on July 22nd, 1901.
Shepherd,
Lieutenant Richard Edmund, Yorkshire Light Infantry
He was
killed in action near Brakenlaagte, on October 31st, 1901. He was the only
son of Colonel C H Shepherd, DSO, commander of the 9th Regimental District,
Norwich, was born in May 1875, and educated at Wellington College, where he
was for two years in the cricket eleven. He obtained his first commission in
the 4th Battalion Essex Regiment, April 1894, in which he was gazetted Captain
in May 1897. He had served in the British South Africa Police from June
1898, and was granted a commission as 2nd Lieutenant, August
30th, 1899 in the Yorkshire Light Infantry, being promoted Lieutenant
August 1900. He served with the Mounted Infantry from the commencement of the
war and was present at the actions of Belmont, Graspan, Magersfontein, relief
of Kimberley, and the battles of Paardeberg, Driefontein and Diamond Hill.
Lieutenant Shepherd was mentioned in despatches and granted the medal with
seven clasps.
Sheridan,
Lieutenant Richard Brinsley, 17th Lancers
He was
killed in action at Modderfontein, near Tarkastad, on September 17th, 1901.
He was born in May 1874, and educated at Harrow. He entered the 17th Lancers
from the 3rd Battalion Royal Scots (Lothian Regiment), in June 1896, being
promoted Lieutenant April 1898. Lieutenant Sheridan accompanied his regiment
to South Africa in February 1900, and served throughout the war up to his
death. (See Lieutenant Morritt)
QSA (4) CC Joh DH Witt (Lt 17th Lancers). Ebay Dec 05. Starting
price of £2.5k but no sale.
Sherrard,
Major John Meade, Army Pay Department
He died of
erysipelas on November 6th, 1900 at Bloemfontein. He was born March
1848, and was appointed paymaster in the Army Pay Department, May 1881, and
became honorary Major in May 1886, and staff paymaster October 1895. Before
entering the Army Pay Department Major Sherrard served regimentally for nearly
fourteen years.
Sherston,
Lieutenant Colonel John, DSO, Rifle Brigade
He was
killed in action at the battle of Talana Hill, October 20th, 1899. He was the
son of Captain Sherston, formerly of the 6th Dragoon Guards, of Evercreech
House, Bath. Lieutenant Colonel Sherston was born in July 1857, and educated
at Marlborough. He entered the 75th Foot February 1876, and was transferred
to the Rifle Brigade, February 1877, being promoted Lieutenant February 1878,
Captain August 1884, Major November 1894, and Lieutenant Colonel February
1899. He served in the Afghan War, 1878-80, as ADC to his uncle, Field
Marshal Earl (then Sir Frederick) Roberts, and was present in the engagement
at Charasiah, October 6th, 1879, and subsequent pursuit of the enemy
(mentioned in despatches), and the operations around Kabul in December 1879,
including the investment of Sherpur (mentioned in despatches). He accompanied
Field Marshal Earl Roberts in the march from Kabul to Kandahar, and was
present at the battle of September 1st (mentioned in despatches, medal with
three clasps, and bronze decoration). He served with the 4th Battalion Rifle
Brigade in the Mahsood Wuzeeree Expedition, 1881, and with the Burmese
Expedition in 1886-87, as brigade Major (mentioned in despatches, DSO, and
medal with clasp). He was brigade Major in Bengal, February 1887 to September
1888, district staff officer, 2nd class, and DAAG, Bengal, October 1888 to
March 1891, DAAG in India, March 1893 to October 1898 (additional AAG Head
Quarters, India, April 1895 to August 1897). From October 1898, till his
departure for South Africa, he was AAG in India. In Natal he was serving on
the staff of Sir W P Symons, and fell while close to him at the edge of the
wood in the first battle of the war. Lieutenant Colonel Sherston was buried at
Talana, and his name was inscribed on a tablet placed in Marlborough College
Chapel in memory of all Marlburians who fell in the war.
See his DSO entry.
Showers,
Lieutenant Colonel Eden Currie, 2nd in command of Lumsden's Horse
He was
killed in action near Thaba N'chu, April 30th, 1900. He was the son of Major
General St George Daniel Showers, of Fort William, Calcutta, and late of
Cheltenham. Lieutenant Colonel Showers was educated at Edinburgh Academy,
and at Wellington, where he was in the Elucher from 1859-62, and played for
the school in both the cricket and football teams. He served for some time in
the Bengal Constabulary, and had been a tea planter in Assam. He served as
Commandant of the Surma Valley Light Horse Volunteers. A monument, raised by
public subscription, was erected to his memory at Silchar.
Sidney,
Quartermaster and Honorary Lieutenant Thomas Alfred Winsmore, Army Ordnance
Department
He
died of
enteric on January 10th, 1901, at East London. He was born in June 1864, and
served in the ranks for nearly twelve years, was a warrant officer for three
and a half years, being promoted assistant commissary of ordnance April 19th,
1899. He went to South Africa in October 1899, and served there continuously
up to his death.
Simpson, 2nd
Lieutenant Francis James Thomas Uniacke, Royal Scots Fusiliers
He was
killed in action at Pieter's Hill on February 27th, 1900. He was born in
November 1879, educated at Cheltenham, and entered the Royal Scots Fusiliers
from the 5th Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers in October 1899. 2nd
Lieutenant Simpson had served through the campaign with the Natal Field Force
up to the time of his death. His name was inscribed on the Eleanor Cross War
Memorial at Cheltenham College.
Simpson,
Lieutenant Tom Thorp, 1st Battalion Shropshire Light Infantry
He died of
dysentery at Schhoeman's Kloof on April 30th, 1901. He was a son of Dr W S
Simpson, was born in May 1877, and educated at Lancing College. He entered
the Shropshire Light Infantry from the 4th Battalion in May 1899, being
promoted Lieutenant August 1900. Lieutenant Simpson had served with the 2nd
battalion of his regiment in South Africa from the commencement of the war.
Siordet,
Lieutenant Frederick John, West Riding Regiment
He was
killed in action at Paardeberg, February 18th, 1900. He was born in December
1871, educated at Blundell's School, Tiverton, and entered the West Riding
Regiment in May 1891, being promoted Lieutenant January 1895. This officer's
death is mentioned in the despatch of Field Marshal Earl Roberts from
Paardeberg, February 28th, 1900.
Sitwell,
Major and Brevet Lieutenant Colonel Claude George Henry, DSO, Royal Dublin
Fusiliers
He was
killed in action in the operations on the Upper Tugela of February 23rd and
24th, 1900. He was the son of Captain G T Sitwell, of the 3rd Dragoons, was
born in October 1858, and educated at Haileybury. He entered the
85th Foot from the Huntingdon
Militia in September 1878, was promoted Lieutenant July 1881, Captain
September 1886, transferred to the Manchester Regiment February 1889, being
promoted Major in the 2nd Battalion Royal Dublin Fusiliers October 1898, and
brevet Lieutenant Colonel October 1899. He served in the Afghan War,
1879-80, with the Kuram Division, Yarmusht Expedition (medal). He also served
in the Egyptian War of 1882 with the 1st Battalion Shropshire Light Infantry,
took part in the defence of Alexandria, and the occupation of Kafr Dowar and
surrender of Damietta, receiving the medal and Khedive's star. Lieutenant
Colonel Sitwell was in East Africa from 1895-98, and was in command of
Expeditions against Kitosh, Kabras, and Kikelwa tribes. He was also in the
Nandi Expedition in 1895, when he was mentioned in despatches. He served in
Uganda 1897-98 when he commanded the Expedition against Mwanga, and was
present at the action near Katonga River and other engagements, being
mentioned in despatches, and receiving the brevet of Lieutenant Colonel and
DSO. Lieutenant Colonel Sitwell served with the 2nd battalion of his regiment
with the Natal Field Force, and was present at the fighting on the Tugela,
being mentioned in despatches, LG, February 8th, 1901. He married in 1887,
Amy, daughter of R B Cooke. (See Lieutenant Colonel Thackeray)
See his DSO entry.
Skene,
Lieutenant William, Kitchener's Horse
He was
killed in action at Nooitgedacht, December 13th, 1900. He was the son of T
Skene, member of the Commonwealth Parliament of Australia, whose father was a
member of the Legislative Council of Victoria. Lieutenant Skene's mother was
the second daughter of Dr Anderson, who, as private medical officer,
accompanied the ninth Baron Napier to China in 1830. Lieutenant Skene was
born December 1875, at Basset, Branxholme, in the Western District of
Victoria, and was educated at the Western District College, Hamilton, and at
the Church of England Grammar School, Geelong, where he was a Lieutenant in
the Volunteer Cadet Corps. Subsequently he held a Lieutenant's commission in
the William's Town Garrison Artillery with a view to adopting the regular army
as his profession. Some change in the age regulation, however, prevented his
competing, and he then worked on his father's property at Marmoo in the
North-West District of Victoria. In December 1899, being anxious to serve the
Empire, he, with great difficulty, procured a passage for himself and his
horse to Cape Town, and on arrival was given a commission as Lieutenant in
Roberts' Horse, and assisted to drill recruits at Rosebank Camp. He was
subsequently offered a 2nd lieutenancy in the Royal Field Artillery, for which
he had been recommended by the acting Governor of Victoria (Sir John Madden),
but through some mistake the order to join his new corps to which he was
gazetted with seniority from May 23rd, 1900, did not reach him, although he
was at the time at Rosebank. Lieutenant Skene then proceeded to Vereeniging,
May 26th, 1900, and was present at the entry into Johannesburg and Pretoria
and the battle of Diamond Hill. At Vredefort he was thanked for his services
by Colonel Ridley. He was also at Elands River where the Australians so
distinguished themselves, and in the fighting at Rustenburg and the
Magaliesberg, being again in Pretoria in August 1900. Here his appointment to
the Royal Artillery reached him, but preferring to remain with his old corps
he resigned his commission in the Royal Field Artillery. Lieutenant Skene
then served with Clements' Column, in which he acted as squadron leader, and
afterwards in the ORC in the fighting near Bethlehem and the operations
against General De Wet. On December 13th, at the first break of dawn, the
camp was attacked, and Lieutenant Skene in a half-clad state rushed out to
reinforce a picket of Mounted Infantry. The Boers on a ridge met the
advancing men with a terrific fire. Colonel Legge was one of the first to
fall, shot through the head, and Lieutenant Skene was mortally wounded. He,
however, until exhausted, continued to call to his men "go on and fight it
out," and to his Sergeant Major (McNaughton), "Fight on, Mac" when he fell
forward on his face dead. Colonel Cookson, writing of him, said he was
"leading his squadron most gallantly to reinforce the pickets, and this prompt
action saved the situation".
Skirving,
Lieutenant G McB, 101st Company 5th Battalion Imperial Yeomanry
He died on
September 8th, 1901, of wounds received in action at Rhenosterfontein three
days previously. He was mentioned in the despatch of General Lord Kitchener,
October 8th, 1901, for his "gallantry at Rhenosterfontein" the day he was
wounded. Lieutenant Skirving had served as a sergeant in Lord Strathcona's
Corps, and was appointed to the Imperial Yeomanry with rank of Lieutenant in
April 1901.
Slater,
Lieutenant Sydney Arthur, DSO, 57th Company, 15th Battalion, Imperial Yeomanry
He died of
enteric at Kroonstad, ORC, January 29th, 1901. He was the son of E Slater of
Ashville, Parsley, and Slingsby Hall, Yorkshire, was born in December 1872,
and educated at Giggleswick School, near Settle, and at Exeter College,
Oxford. He held a commission as a 2nd Lieutenant in the 3rd Volunteer
Battalion West Yorkshire Regiment, but early in 1900 volunteered for active
service with the Imperial Yeomanry. In March he was appointed Lieutenant in
the 57th Company, and, proceeding to South Africa, served in the Cape and
Orange River Colonies. With ten men, Lieutenant Slater is stated to have made
a clever capture of Boers in Bultfontein, and, in September when attacked, he
made an able defence of the place, and held the enemy at bay until relief
arrived. He was mentioned in despatches, LG, September 10th, 1901, being
granted the DSO, and received a letter of congratulation from Field Marshal
Earl Roberts. A tablet was erected to Lieutenant Slater's memory in Giggleswick School.
See his DSO entry.
Smith, Civil
Surgeon E, attached for duty to the Royal Army Medical Corps
He died
during the war.
Smith,
Lieutenant W Dixon, Border Mounted Rifles
He died in
Ladysmith, on January 13th, 1901.
Southey,
Lieutenant Arthur Melville, 2nd Battalion Scots Guards
He was
killed in action at Tiger's Kloof on November 23rd, 1900. He was born October
1872, educated at Eton and entered the Scots Guards in April 1892, being
promoted Lieutenant in April 1897. Lieutenant Southey belonged to the 3rd
battalion, but volunteering for active service was transferred to the 2nd
battalion and proceeded to South Africa in May 1900.
Sowerby,
Lieutenant Francis Hubert Airey, 3rd Battalion Durham Light Infantry
He died of
dysentery at Kroonstad, ORC, on April 21st, 1901. He was educated at
Wellington (Kempthornes from 1888-90), and entered the 3rd Battalion Durham
Light Infantry in September 1898, being promoted Lieutenant December 1900. He
volunteered for active service, and accompanied his battalion to South Africa
in February 1900, and is reported to have served with distinction.
Spandow,
Captain H J A, Midland Mounted Rifles
He was
killed in action at Water Kloof, near Craddock on June 2Oth, 1901.
Spence,
Colonel William Alexander, VD, late Middlesex Regiment
He was
killed in action near Douglas, May 30th, 1900. He was the son of Captain S
Spence, 28th Gloucestershire Regiment, and was educated at Wellington; where
he was in the Anglesea from 1859-62, and a Prefect. He entered the 77th
Middlesex Regiment, from the Royal Military College, Sandhurst, in 1863, and
served with it until 1875, when he retired and settled for a time in New
Zealand, where he was adjutant of the Volunteer force. He resided at Cape
Town for many years, where he was adjutant of the Duke of Edinburgh's Own
Volunteer Corps, and had commanded it since December 1890. He was always a
keen soldier, and popular with all ranks. In 1897 Colonel Spence served in
the Bechuanaland Expedition. The day he was killed he had brought up 400 of
his battalion in admirably extended order to attack the Boers. Although under
a heavy fire their losses were slight, three killed and four wounded, but one
of the former was Colonel Spence. He exposed himself for a moment to give
some orders and was immediately struck down. Two of his sons had served in
the corps with him, one was granted a commission in his father's old regiment
(the Middlesex) in March 1900, and the other was in the action at which his
father lost his life. Colonel Spence was mentioned in despatches, LG,
February 8th, 1901, by Sir Charles Warren for his excellent services in the
following words "I regret very much the loss of Colonel Spence,
commanding Duke of Edinburgh's Own Volunteer Rifles, a most gallant and
efficient commanding officer".
Spencer, 2nd
Lieutenant A, Cape Volunteer Medical Staff Corps
He died at
Krugersdorp on September 26th, 1900.
Spicer,
Lieutenant Arthur Reginald William, 3rd Battalion King's Royal Rifle Corps
He died of
enteric at Germiston on May 8th, 1901. He was the youngest son of Richard
Spicer, born in June 1878, and educated at Eton. He entered the King's Royal
Rifle Corps from the 7th battalion in May 1899, being promoted Lieutenant
April 1900. Lieutenant Spicer embarked for South Africa in October 1899, and
served throughout the war with his battalion.
Spratt,
Lieutenant H Devereux, 23rd Company Imperial Yeomanry
Died at
Mortimer on June 3rd, 1902, of wounds received the previous day at Waterval.
He received his death wound, therefore, two days after the treaty of peace was
signed. He was the second son of Richard Spratt of Pencil Hall, Mallow. His
mother was a daughter of H Baldwin Foott of Carrigacunna Castle, Cork.
Lieutenant Spratt was 35 years of age, a graduate of Trinity College, Dublin,
an ardent sportsman, a good rider, and was well-known with the Duhallow
Hounds. He was a barrister and gave up a good appointment soon after the war
broke out in order to go on active service. In 1900 he was wounded, and also
suffered from fever, and was therefore ordered to England in December but
having recovered he again went out in the Imperial Yeomanry, and served from
March 1901. Lieutenant Spratt saw much service during the war, and latterly
was in the columns commanded by Colonel Henniker-Major and Lieutenant Colonel
Doran. The day he was killed Lieutenant Spratt was with a party of 20 men,
but the Boer commandant, not being aware that peace had been declared, opened
fire, and Lieutenant Spratt and two men were mortally wounded.
Spreekley,
Lieutenant Colonel J A, CMG, Rhodesian Protectorate Regiment
He was
killed in action at Klip Drift, August 20th, 1900. He was the son of Mr and
Mrs Spreekley of Bournemouth, was born in March 1865, and educated at Derby
School. When seventeen years of age he went to South Africa, and had served
in the operations of 1896, being awarded the CMG. At the outbreak of the
South African War, he joined Major General Plumer's force for the relief of
Mafeking. The day he fell his party were surrounded by some Boers, who, being
dressed in khaki, were first taken for friends. When the mistake was
discovered and Lieutenant Colonel Spreekley and his party were called upon to
surrender, he replied "Never, give it to them, lads" and was immediately
killed. By his death, Rhodesia lost one of its best known and most popular
men. He saw much service during the war, the gallant Rhodesian Regiment to
which he belonged having been in many battles and actions. Lieutenant Colonel
Spreckley was mentioned in despatches, LG, April 16th, 1901.
Sprenger,
Major C F, Cape Mounted Rifles
He was
killed in the fighting round Wepener, April 9th, 1900. He had been a Major in
the corps since July 1896. His first war service was in the operations
against Langalibalele in 1873. He also took part in the Galeka and Gaika
Campaigns, 1877-78, and in the operations against Moirosi in 1879. At the
capture of Moirosi's stronghold, he led the storming party, and was promoted
Captain for distinguished service. He subsequently served in the operations
in Basutoland in 1880-81. At the commencement of the South African War, Major
Sprenger was sent with 250 men and the artillery company of the Cape Mounted
Rifles to Queenstown, and thence to Sterkstroom and Pen Hoek. He was present
at the engagements at Birds River, Dordrecht, and the fighting near Aliwal
North, in all of which his gallantry and resource are stated to have been very
noticeable. The death of Major Sprenger is referred to in the report of
Lieutenant Colonel Dalgety of April 29th, 1900, from Jammersberg Bridge, LG,
February 8th, 1901. Major Sprenger was also mentioned in despatches, LG,
April 16th, 1901.
Spring,
Lieutenant H G, Imperial Yeomanry
He was
killed in action at Vlakfontein, May 29th, 1901. He was the second son of the
Reverend H C Spring, of Tiverton, Devon, a retired army chaplain, and Vicar of
Alphington, Devon. Lieutenant Spring was educated at Blundell's School,
Tiverton, was very fond of games, and, when at school, was captain of both his
cricket and football teams. He had served in South Africa during 1900 as a
trooper, but he again volunteered and was gazetted in March 1901, as a
Lieutenant in the Imperial Yeomanry, and attached to the 7th Battalion. He is
reported to have been killed when lying wounded.
Stabb,
Lieutenant Edward,
Royal Naval Reserve
Died of
fever in Ladysmith, January 15th, 1900. He was serving with the Natal Police
and rendered good service during the siege. He was mentioned in the despatch
of Lieutenant General Sir George White of March 23rd, 1900, LG, February 8th,
1901, also in the despatch of Captain H Lambton, of June 11th, 1900, who
stated that "Lieutenant Stabb volunteered his services which I gladly
accepted, and I found him very useful".
Stanley,
Captain Herbert Foster Wentworth, 9th Lancers
He died
April 28th, 1900, of wounds received in action near Dewetsdorp. He was the
third son of Sidney Stanley of Longstone Hall, Cambridgeshire, was born July
1863, and educated at Eton. He entered the 9th Lancers in February 1887,
being promoted Lieutenant November 1888, and Captain September 1894. Captain
Stanley accompanied his regiment to South Africa from India in 1899 and served
in Natal and the North of Cape Colony, and subsequently at the relief of
Kimberley and the advance on Bloemfontein. He afterwards served in the
operations near Dewetsdorp.
Stanley,
Lieutenant Henry Thomas, 7th Battalion Imperial Yeomanry
He was
killed in action at Hekpoort, September 16th, 1900. He was educated at Eton
and joined the Imperial Yeomanry in February 1900. He was a well-known
cricketer and sportsman. Before joining the Imperial Yeomanry he had held
the rank of Lieutenant in the West Somerset Yeomanry Cavalry from June.
Stanton,
Lieutenant A A, Commander in Chiefs Bodyguard
He died of
peritonitis, at Utrecht, on March 9th, 1901. He was a fellow of the Royal
Colonial Institute, and his name was inscribed on a memorial tablet placed in
the hall of the building in Northumberland Avenue, London.
Stanton,
Lieutenant Harold John Stanton, 2nd Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers
He died at
Pretoria, December 30th, 1900, of wounds received in action at Nooitgedacht,
near the Magaliesberg, on December 13th. He was the elder son of Captain F R
Stanton, Royal Scots, and of Mrs Stanton of 58 Elm Park Gardens, London. He
was born in December 1878, and educated at Radley. He entered the
Northumberland Fusiliers from the 3rd Battalion Sherwood Foresters (Derbyshire
Regiment) in October 1899, being promoted Lieutenant February 1900. He
accompanied his battalion to South Africa in October 1899, and served with it
during the war, with the exception of a short period when he was ill at East
London with enteric. He was granted the medal with three clasps. Lieutenant
Stanton was buried at Pretoria. A memorial cross was erected over his grave.
Stapleton-Bretherton,
2nd Lieutenant Robert Charles Lucius, Royal Fusiliers Mounted
Infantry
He was
killed in action at Ronderan, Frankfort District, January 30th, 1902. He was
the second son of F A Stapleton-Bretherton of The Hall, Rainhill, Lancashire,
and Heathfield House, Fareham, and the Honourable Mrs Stapleton-Bretherton, a
daughter of the twelfth Lord Petre. 2nd Lieutenant Stapleton-Bretherton was
born in August 1875, and educated at the Jesuit College, Beaumont, Windsor.
He was a keen sportsman and a good rider. He joined the 3rd Battalion
Hampshire Regiment in 1894, being promoted Captain 1899, and had served on the
West Coast of Africa and held the post of Assistant-Inspector of the Gold
Coast Constabulary, in the northern territories till April 1900. In the
following June he was given his commission as 2nd Lieutenant in the Royal
Fusiliers, and joined the 1st battalion in Bombay. He was sent to South
Africa in December 1901, to the 2Oth Mounted Infantry, under Colonel Dawkins,
which was operating in the Frankfort district in the operations against De
Wet. Some fighting took place on January 28th, and on the following evening
the whole column started to attack a large force of Boers about twenty five
miles off. The Boers were surprised, but made a determined stand. With about
ten men, 2nd Lieutenant Stapleton-Bretherton rushed forward to attack and, if
possible, capture some of the enemy, and was shot through the heart. He was
buried on a hill side at Kaffirstad, on the Harrismith-Frankfort road, about
twenty miles from the former place. A marble cross and iron fence marked his
grave. In the RC church of St Bartholomew's, Rainhill, a cross was erected in
memory of 2nd Lieutenant Stapleton-Bretherton.
Stapleton-Cotton, Lieutenant Wellington Robert Paul, 19th Hussars
He died of
enteric in Ladysmith, January 29th, 1900. He was the eldest son of Colonel
the Honourable Richard Stapleton-Cotton, of Somerford Hall, Brewood,
Staffordshire, second son of the 2nd Viscount Combermere. His mother was the
Honourable Jane Charlotte, daughter of the 2nd Baron Methuen. Lieutenant
Stapleton-Cotton was therefore a nephew of Lieutenant General Lord Methuen.
He was born in August 1872, educated at Wellington, and entered the 18th
Hussars from the Royal Military College in March 1892, being transferred to
the 19th Hussars on the 30th of the same month, and was promoted Lieutenant
February 1894. Lieutenant Stapleton-Cotton served in Natal with his regiment,
which was sent to South Africa in September 1899, with the Indian contingent,
and took part in the defence of Ladysmith until struck down with fever.
Stapylton-Bree, Lieutenant Reginald Robert, Victorian Mounted Infantry
He died of
enteric, May 26th 1900, at Bloemfontein. He was the eldest son of Robert
Stapylton-Bree of Hamilton, Australia, and grandson of the Honourable S G
Henty, one of the best-known of the early pioneers of the Colony. Lieutenant
Stapylton-Bree was nineteen years of age at the time of his death.
Stayner,
Captain F S, 1st Battalion Gloucestershire Regiment
He died in
Ceylon from enteric October 8th, 1900. He had previously served in the South
African war from its commencement, and was present at the actions of
Farquhar's Farm and Nicholson's Nek, where he was severely wounded and
afterwards invalided. He was born in March 1866, and educated at Marlborough,
where he was considered a good athlete and in the football XI. He was the
winner of many cups and prizes. He entered the Gloucestershire Regt, from the
Militia in May 1888, being promoted Lieutenant March 1890, and Captain January
1898. He served in Malta, Egypt and India, previous to going to South
Africa. On recovering from his wound he rejoined his battalion, which was
afterwards sent to Ceylon. His name was inscribed on a tablet placed in
Marlborough College Chapel in memory of all Marlburians who fell during the
war.
Stebbing,
Lieutenant Frederic Anderson, Royal Welsh Fusiliers
He was
killed in action, February 24th, 1900, in the operations on the Tugela. He
was the younger son of Lieutenant Colonel Frederic Anderson of Ealing, late
8th, King's Regiment, was born in June 1876, and educated at Harrow. He
entered the Royal Welsh Fusiliers in September 1896, being promoted Lieutenant
October 1898. Having served with the 2nd battalion of his regiment at Malta,
the occupation of Crete, and at Hong Kong, he volunteered for active service
at the outbreak of the war, and embarked with the 1st battalion for South
Africa in October 1899, and served with the Natal Field Force until killed.
He was present at the battle of Colenso and the fighting on the Tugela, and
was awarded the medal with two clasps.
Stephenson,
Lieutenant W H, Canadian Scouts
He died of
enteric at Bloemfontein on February 13th, 1902.
Stevens,
Acting Chaplain the Reverend S P
He died of
inflammation of the stomach at Winburg, ORC, on May 17th , 1902.
Stewart,
Captain Archibald Dundonald, 1st Battalion Rifle Brigade
He was
killed in the railway engagement at Kaap River, near Vlakfontein, on October
9th, 1900. He was born in February 1864, and entered the Rifle Brigade August
1884, being promoted Captain November 1892. He served with the Burmese
Expedition of 1886-88, receiving the medal with clasp. Captain Stewart also
served with the Natal Field Force, and took part in the operations on the
Tugela of February 15th to 18th, 1900, and was wounded. On recovering he
rejoined his battalion and served with it in the advance into the Transvaal.
Stewart,
Captain Gilbert Macdonald, Lancashire Fusiliers
He was
killed in action at Spion Kop in the operations on the Upper Tugela on January
24th, 1900. He was a son of Mrs Stewart of Longton Grove, Sydenham. Captain
Stewart was born in February 1873, educated at Dulwich College, and entered
the Lancashire Fusiliers in February 1893, being promoted Lieutenant January
1896, and Captain October 1899. He served in the campaign in the Soudan under
Lord (then Sir Herbert) Kitchener in 1898 with the 2nd battalion of his
regiment, and was present at the battle of Khartoum, receiving the British
medal and the Khedive's medal with clasp. He was also present during the
occupation of Crete in 1898, Previous to proceeding to South Africa he held
the post of garrison adjutant at Chatham. Captain Stewart embarked with the
2nd battalion in November 1899, and served with the Natal Field Force. His
name was inscribed on a tablet on the outside of the New Memorial Library
erected at Dulwich College, in remembrance of old Alleynians who fell in the
war.
Stirling,
Lieutenant John Gordon, DSO, 9th Lancers
He died at
Sialkote, India, from the effects of an accident, May 22nd, 1902. He was born
in May 1874, and entered the 9th Lancers from the 7th Battalion King's Royal
Rifle Corps, July 1895, being promoted Lieutenant July 1896. In the South
African War he served with the Kimberley Relief Force, and took part in the
actions at Belmont and Enslin (severely wounded), also in the operations in
the ORC, May to November 1900, including the action at Caledon River. In July
1901, he acted as Captain in the 2nd Battalion Imperial Yeomanry, but at the
time of his death was adjutant of the 9th Lancers. Lieutenant Stirling was
mentioned in despatches by Field Marshal Earl Roberts, for having rendered
meritorious service, LG, August 2Oth, 1901, and was awarded the DSO. He was
also mentioned in the despatch of Lord Kitchener of May 28th, 1901, for his
gallant conduct at Twyfelfontein, ORC, on May 27th, 1901, in "returning to
fetch a dismounted man" and for "his coolness in action". During his service
in South Africa, Lieutenant Stirling had lost one arm and been wounded in the
other.
See his DSO entry.
Stoneman,
Lieutenant Colonel James, Army Service Corps
He died of
enteric at Pietermaritzburg, on December 10th, 1900. He was born in March
1855. After departmental service, lasting nearly fourteen years, he was
gazetted Major in the Army Service Corps in June 1889, and was promoted
Lieutenant Colonel in 1894. He took part in the Egyptian War of 1882,
receiving the medal and Khedive's star. In the South African campaign he had
served from the commencement of the war, and was employed as a DAAG on the
lines of communication from September 1899. Lieutenant CoIonel Stoneman was
in Ladysmith throughout the siege. He was mentioned in the despatch of Sir G
White of March 23rd, 1900, who stated that "excellent service has been
rendered by Lieutenant Colonel Stoneman, Army Service Corps, DAAG". Sir A
Conan Doyle also, in writing of the siege of Ladysmith, mentions that the
besieged were fortunate in the presence of a first class organiser, Colonel
Ward, who "with the assistance of Colonel Stoneman, systematised the
collection and issue of all food" and adds that, above all, Sir G White was
fortunate "in his commissariat officers, as it was in the offices of Colonels
Ward and Stoneman as much as in the trenches and sangars of Caesar's Camp that
the siege was won".
Stopford,
Lieutenant Colonel Horace Robert, Coldstream Guards
He was
killed at the battle of Modder River November 28th, 1899. He was born in
October 1855, and educated at Eton. He entered the 46th Foot in June 1874,
was transferred to the Coldstream Guards as Lieutenant August 1875, was
promoted Captain October 1885, Major November 1893, and Lieutenant Colonel to
command the 2nd Battalion, February 1899. From 1881-85 he was ADC to the
General Officer Commanding the Forces in Ireland, and from 1887-89 was
Commandant of the School of Instruction for Auxiliary Forces at Wellington
Barracks. His battalion, on arrival in South Africa, joined the Kimberley
Relief Force, under Lieutenant General Lord Methuen, and took part in the
battles of Belmont and Graspan. While leading his battalion at Modder River,
Lieutenant Colonel Stopford was killed by one of the first shells fired by the
Boers in this action. He is mentioned in the report of Major General Sir H
Colville, concerning the battle of Belmont "the advance of his battalion was
distinctly well performed".
Streak,
Lieutenant, Dennison's Scouts
He was
killed in action at Schweitzerrenneke on December 29th, 1900.
Streatfield,
Captain Eric, DSO, 2nd Battalion Gordon Highlanders
He died at
Fulbrook, Elstead, Surrey, March 26th, 1902. He was the fifth son of
Lieutenant Colonel Henry Dorrien Streatfield of Chiddingstone, Edenbridge,
Kent, Lord of the Manors of Chiddingstone, by his marriage with Marion,
daughter of Oswald A Smith. Captain Streatfield was a brother of Lieutenant
Colonel Henry Streatfield, private secretary to Field Marshal Earl Roberts.
He was born in February 1864, educated at Radley, where he was in the school
rowing and football teams, and entered the Gordon Highlanders from the 4th
Battalion Black Watch (Royal Highlanders) in April 1886, being promoted
Captain September 1896. He was ADC to Major General Ivor Herbert, commanding
the militia in Canada, in May and June 1890, and again from December 1890,
till August 1895, and was adjutant of the 2nd battalion of his regiment from
November 1897 to February 1901. Captain Streatfield was serving in South
Africa at the outbreak of the war, having accompanied his battalion from India
to Natal in September 1899. He took part in the defence of Ladysmith, being
mentioned in the despatches of Sir George White, December 2nd, 1899, and March
23rd, 1900, LG, February 8th and September 10th, 1901, and was awarded the
DSO. He retired from the army on account of ill-health March 14th, 1902, and
died as stated on the 26th of the same month.
See his DSO entry.
Strong,
Lieutenant Charles Powlett, DSO, 2nd Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment
He was
killed in action at Graspan, near Reitz, June 6th 1901. He was the second son
of Lieutenant Colonel Strong, Chairman of Peterborough Quarter Sessions, was
born in January 1875, and educated at Harrow. He entered the Bedfordshire
Regiment from the Royal Military College in March 1895, and was promoted
Lieutenant July 1897. He was mentioned in despatches, LG, September 10th,
1901, also in the despatch of General Lord Kitchener of July 28th, 1901, for
having "when in command of a rear guard by his determined resistance to a
superior force, enabled the baggage to get across a bad drift without a shot
being fired at it" and for having "done consistent good work on many
occasions". Lieutenant Strong was awarded the DSO.
See his
DSO entry.
Strong, Major
Sydney Philip, second in command, 2nd Battalion Scottish Rifles
He died of
wounds received in action at Spion Kop, in the operations on the Upper Tugela,
on January 24th, 1900. He was born in February 1858, educated at Winchester,
and entered the 90th Foot January 1878, being promoted Lieutenant August 1878,
Captain September 1883, and Major October 1892. He saw active service with
the 90th Light Infantry in the South African War, 1877-78, in the Kaffir
Campaign, and the operations against the Galekas. He also served throughout
the Zulu War of 1879, and was present at the engagements at Zungen Nek,
Kambula, and Ulundi, and was mentioned in despatches, LG, May 7th, 1879, and
received the medal with clasp. Major Strong was adjutant of volunteers from
November 1887-92. His death is mentioned in the despatch of Lieutenant
General Sir C Warren of February 1st, 1900.
Stuart,
Lieutenant Charles McKay, South African Town Guards
He died of
epilepsy at Mossel Bay on December 12th, 1901.
Stuart, Major
Sidney Offord, FRCS, Edinburgh, Royal Army Medical Corps
He died of
dysentery at Winburg, ORC, on April 18th, 1902. He was born in November 1860,
and joined the RAMC as surgeon, July 1882, and was promoted Major July 1894.
Major Stuart proceeded to South Africa in November 1901, and served in the
Cape and Orange River Colonies.
Stuart,
Lieutenant Walter Ochiltree, 1st Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers
He was
killed in action in the operations on the Upper Tugela, February 23rd, 1900.
He was the son of Major Burleigh Stuart, of Dergmony, Omagh, Tyrone, was born
in November 1877, and educated at Cheltenham College. He entered the 1st
Battalion Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers from the 5th Battalion in December
1897, being promoted Lieutenant December 1898. He accompanied his battalion
to South Africa in November 1899, and was present at the battle of Colenso and
all the subsequent fighting on the Tugela up to February 23rd, when he fell
shot through the head while leading his men. Lieutenant Stuart was buried at
the foot of the hill where he was killed (known as Railway or Inniskilling, or
Harts Hill), beside Lieutenant Colonel Thackeray and Major Sanders. A marble
headstone was erected by their comrades of all ranks to mark the graves.
Lieutenant Stuart's name was inscribed on an obelisk twenty seven feet high,
erected on this hill, in memory of all belonging to the 1st Battalion
Inniskillings who fell on February 23rd and 24th, 1900. His name was also
inscribed on the Eleanor Cross War Memorial at Cheltenham College. (See
Lieutenant Colonel Thackeray)
Stubbs,
Captain and Brevet Major Arthur Kennedy, Worcestershire Regiment
He was
killed in action at Rensburg, February 12th, 1900. He was the eldest son of
Major General F W Stubbs, Royal Artillery, of 2 Clarence Terrace, St Luke's,
Cork. Major Stubbs was born in December 1867, at Meerut, and educated at Mr
Tottenham's School at St Leonards, and afterwards at the Oxford Military
College, whence he passed into Sandhurst. He entered the Worcestershire
Regiment in March 1889, being promoted Lieutenant December 1890, Captain May
1899, and brevet Major on July 1st of the same year. He served in the
operations in the Niger Territories in 1898, including the Benin Hinterland
and Siama Expedition (wounded), being mentioned in despatches, and receiving
the brevet of Major and the medal with clasp. Major Stubbs accompanied the
2nd battalion of his regiment to South Africa in December 1899, and on arrival
was then sent with it to the North of Cape Colony. At Rensburg the key of the
position was a group of three kopjes held by three companies of the
Worcestershire Regiment, and here the Boers made a fierce attack "in the cold
misty light of dawn" on February 12th and got possession of some sangars. They
could not, however, advance any further owing to the accurate fire of the
Worcesters, and a desperate fight then ensued. The right kopje, with a front
of about three quarters of a mile, was held by Major Stubbs and his company,
and he was killed while leading and cheering his men on in a forward rush to
drive the Boers out of the north-east edge of this kopje. Lieutenant Colonel
Coningham, who had come up to the point of danger in the first alarm, was
killed close to Major Stubbs. Captain Thomas, who had been sent with his
company as a reinforcement, was also severely wounded, and died eight days
afterwards. The action lasted the whole day and with darkness the Boers
retreated. A cairn was erected over the graves of Lieutenant Colonel
Coningham, Major Stubbs, and those of the Worcesters who fell in this action. (See
Lieutenant Colonel Coningham)
Sutherland,
2nd Lieutenant Eric Macnaught, 2nd Battalion Seaforth Highlanders
He was
killed in action near Frederickstad on May 29th, 1902, two days before the
treaty of peace was signed. He was the eldest son of Sir Thomas Sutherland,
Chairman of the Peninsular and Oriental Steamship Company, who represented
Greenock in the House of Commons for sixteen years. Lieutenant Sutherland was
born in September 1882, and educated at Eton. He passed out of Sandhurst in
December 1901, being gazetted to the Seaforth Highlanders, January 1902 and
joined the 2nd Battalion in South Africa a few weeks later. The day he was
killed he was pursuing some Boers with a handful of horsemen, when they were
ambushed by the enemy and 2nd Lieutenant Sutherland got separated from his
horse. Scorning to surrender, he fought his way on foot for over a mile, and
was then shot down by one of the enemy who had got round him. The Boer
Commander stated he had seen no finer example of British courage during the
war.
Sutton,
Captain Francis Hubert Clifford, Royal Canadian Dragoons
He died at
sea whilst returning from South Africa to Halifax, Nova Scotia. He was the
only surviving son of Reverend Walter Henry Sutton, of South Cerney,
Gloucestershire, and was thirty five years of
age.
Swanston,
Lieutenant Arthur William, 6th Inniskilling Dragoons
He was
killed in action near Ermelo October 16th, 1900. He was the son of J C
Swanston of Bourne End, Bucks, was born in February 1875, and educated at St
Paul's School, and Loretto (Musselburgh), and also at Cambridge. He was fond
of games and was in the Loretto XV and also rowed in the Cambridge eight in
1898. He entered the 6th Dragoons from the Northumberland Artillery Militia,
in November 1899, being promoted Lieutenant October 3rd, 1900. He joined his
regiment in South Africa early in 1900, and served with it till killed. His
commanding officer in writing concerning Lieutenant Swanston's death, states
"he fell while trying to bring in wounded troopers, and was shot dead on the
second occasion when he was so gallantly trying to save others".
Sykes,
Captain Herbert Schofield, Royal Scots Fusiliers
He was
killed in action at Pieter's Hill, in the operations on the Upper Tugela,
February 27th, 1900. He was born at the Manor Adel, near Leeds, in June 1863,
and was educated at Harrow. He entered the Royal Scots Fusiliers, May 1885,
being promoted Captain August 1894. From 1894-99 he was adjutant of the 1st
Volunteer battalion at Kilmarnock. He proceeded to South Africa and joined
the 2nd battalion of his regiment in December 1899. At Pieter's Hill the
Royal Scots Fusiliers were on the British extreme right and rendered splendid
service by enveloping the Boer left, thus compelling the enemy to withdraw
from their position.
Symons, Major
General (local Lieutenant General) Sir William Penn, KCB
He was
mortally wounded October 2Oth, 1899, at the battle of Talana Hill, and died
three days later. He was the eldest son of William Symons of Halt, Cornwall,
was born in July 1843, and educated privately. Sir W Penn Symons married
Caroline, only daughter of T P Hawkins of Edgbaston, Warwickshire. He was a
good sportsman and fond of hunting, shooting and fishing. He entered the 24th
Foot in March 1863, being promoted Lieutenant October 1866, Captain February
1878, Major July 1881, brevet Lieutenant Colonel May 1886 and brevet Colonel
July 1887. He had his first experience of active service in South Africa,
when, as a Captain of the 24th Foot, he took part in the operations against
the Galekas in 1877-78, and in the Zulu war during the following year, being
awarded the medal and clasp. He next served with the Burmese Expedition in
1885-89 as DAA and QMG, when he organised and commanded the Mounted Infantry;
also as Brigadier General in command of the Chin Field Force (several times
mentioned in despatches, brevets of Lieutenant Colonel and Colonel, medal with
two clasps). He also took part in the Chin-lushai Expedition of 1889-90, in
command of the Burma column (received the thanks of the Government of India,
CB, and clasp). In 1894-95 he commanded a brigade of the Waziristan Field
Force, and was mentioned in despatches and granted a clasp. He then served in
the campaign on the North-West Frontier of India under Sir William Lockhart,
1897-98, in command of the 2nd brigade Tochi Field Force, and afterwards
commanded the 1st division of the Tirah Expeditionary Force (twice mentioned
in despatches, KCB, and medal with two clasps). He was appointed Brigadier
General in Natal, May 15th, 1889, and Major General just before the
commencement of the war. At the battle of Talana Hill, about 9 am, Sir Penn
Symons, accompanied by Colonel Dartnell and Majors Hammersley and Murray,
DAAGs, galloped forward and jumped into a wood, in front of which was the Boer
position. Leaving their horses in a donga, they then hurried on, and having
arrived at the edge nearest the enemy Major Hammersley was severely wounded.
A moment later, at 9.15, Sir Penn Symons, as he was stepping through a gap
was struck down, and turning to Major Murray, he said, "I am mortally
wounded". He was then assisted and carried back into camp, and as he was
being taken away and afterwards when in hospital, his only question was "have
they got the hill?" He died on October 23rd, a few hours after the Boers
entered Dundee. He was mentioned in the despatch of Lieutenant General Sir
George White, from Ladysmith, December 2nd, 1899, for his "energy and
courage". Sir G White considered the country had lost "an officer of high
ability and a leader of exceptional valour" LG, February 8th, 1901. The men
of the Durban Light Infantry erected a memorial over the grave of Sir Penn
Symons at Dundee, and an Institute in his memory was built at Umballa, where
he was commanding until summoned to Natal in 1899 to take command of the
troops there. (See Lieutenant Colonel Gunning)
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