TOPIC:

I am researching my Grandfather's footsteps during the Boer War. His name was Henry Alderslade and he was a corporal serving with the Queens West Surrey Regiment. I know that he was awarded the DCM but I cannot find out when or why. I know that he was wounded on 21st January 1900 in an action on Spearmans Hill. I know also that the Queens had a particularly tough day which was acknowledged by General Buller. However, I have no idea where to find further details. Can anyone help?

I am sure that you have seen the notation here in the forum......

Alderslade H 4343 Corporal Relief of Ladysmith. Wounded 21 Jan 00 Spearman's Camp.

Like many DCM's of this period there are no citations...... Your best bet is to find a regimental history and see if there is any mention there......

Mike

Thank you for your response, Mike. I think I found a Regimental write-up of this period but it was very vague. Perhaps I will try to contact the Regiment or its custodians.

Bob

Rudolf's Short histories of the Territorial regiments of the British Army (1906) p.26 states that the award was for 'gallantry under fire'. There are a few men like this.

It would be worth trawling the Buller Boer War papers in The National Archives which might contain the report mentioning him by the regimental Commanding Officer or the Brigade Commander after one of the major engagements of the Relief of Ladysmith in which the QRWS were engaged.

Justin

Many thanks for this extract and for letting me know the source. I will proceed along the lines that you suggest.

Your extract has also shown me the route that they took after Spion Kop. Thank you.

Bob