RODGER, THOMAS HENDERSON, Major, was
born at Wynberg, near Cape Town, 10 March 1860. He served in the DEOVR in
the Gaika-Galeka War of 1877-78, and in the Diamond Field Horse in the
Langberg Rebellion, Bechuanaland, 1896-97 (Medal and clasp). He was
promoted Captain, 1894; Major, 1899, and again saw active service in the
South African War, 1899-1902, taking part in the defence of Kimberley.
Operations in Orange Free State, February to May 1900. Relief of Mafeking.
Operations in the Transvaal, May and June 1900. Operations in Orange River
Colony, May to 29 November 1900. Operations in Cape Colony, north of Orange
River. Operations in the Transvaal, Orange River Colony and Cape Colony 30
November 1900 to 31 May 1902. He was mentioned in Despatches [London
Gazette, 8 May 1900, and 16 April 1901]; received the Queen's Medal with
four clasps; the King's Medal with two clasps, and was created a Companion
of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 19 April 1901]: "Thomas
Henderson Rodger, Major, Diamond Fields Horse. In recognition of services
during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia were sent to the
Commander-in-Chief in South Africa, and presented there. In 1902 he became
Officer Commanding the Kimberley Horse, with the rank of Lieutenant
Colonel. Lieutenant Colonel Rodger married, in 1885, Elizabeth Johanna,
daughter of W J Merrington, of Claremont, Cape Colony.
