PRATT, MERVYN, Captain, was born 24
April 1873, son of Joseph Pratt, JP, DL, and Madeline Charlotte, only
daughter of James Hamilton, of Cornacassa, Monaghan. He was educated at
Harrow, and entered the King's Royal Rifle Corps 26 June 1895; became
Lieutenant, KRRC, 14 June 1898, and Captain 24 September 1901. He served in
the South African War, 1899-1902, and was present at the Relief of
Ladysmith, including action at Colenso; operations of 17 to 24 January 1900,
and action at Spion Kop; operations of 5 to 7 February 1900, and action at
Vaal Kranz; operations on Tugela Heights 14 to 27 February 1900, and action
at Pieter's Hill; operations in Natal, March to June 1900, including action
at Laing's Nek (6 to 9 June) (severely wounded); operations in the Transvaal
30 November 1900 to 31 May 1902; operations in Orange River Colony, 1901-2.
He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 17 June 1902]; received the
Queen's Medal with six clasps; the King's Medal with two clasps, and was
created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 26
June 1902]: "Mervyn Pratt, Captain, King's Royal Rifle Corps. In
recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". He was
invested by the King 15 January 1903. Captain Pratt retired 5 August 1910;
became Temporary Major, KRRC, in 1914, and was promoted to Major, Reserve of
Officers, 4 May 1916.
