HIGGINS, JOHN FREDERICK ANDREWS,
Lieutenant, was born 1 September 1875, son of William Higgins, of The
Chesnuts, Farnham. He entered the Royal Artillery 15 June 1895, becoming
Lieutenant 5 June 1898. He served in the South African War, 1899-1902; took
part in the operations in Natal, 1899, including actions at Reitfontein, and
Lombard's Kop and Farquhar's Farm; was present at the Defence of Ladysmith,
including action of 6 January 1900 (severely wounded); in the Transvaal 30
November 1900 to December 1901; also during operations in Orange River
Colony, January to 31 May 1902. He was mentioned in Despatches [London
Gazette, 10 September 1901]; received the Queen's Medal with four clasps,
and King's Medal with two clasps. He was created a Companion of the
Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "John
Frederick Andrews Higgins, Lieutenant, Royal Horse and Royal Field
Artillery. In recognition of services during the operations in South
Africa". He was invested by the King 24 October 1902. He was promoted to
Captain 15 March 1901, and Major, Royal Artillery, 30 August 1911, and Royal
Flying Corps 28 October 1912 to 31 March 1918. Captain Higgins served in
the European War from 1914, as Temporary Brigadier General, commanding the
2nd Brigade, Royal Flying Corps, 25 August 1915 to 31 March, 1918; employed
under the Air Ministry from 1 April, 1918. He was mentioned in Despatches;
was given the Brevets of Lieutenant Colonel (18 February 1915) and Colonel
(1 January 1918); was made an Officer of the Legion of Honour; created a CB;
promoted to Major General; Air Vice Marshal; awarded the AFC.
