| Smith | William Hugh Usher | | Captain | SMITH, WILLIAM HUGH USHER, Captain, was born in Londonderry, Ireland, 20 May 1869, son of Reverend Frank Smith, MA, formerly Hector of Atherstone-on-Stour, Stratford-on-Avon. He was educated at Trinity College, Stratford-on-Avon, and at the Royal Military Academy, Woolwich, and became Second Lieutenant, Royal Artillery, 27 July 1888, and Captain 23 November 1898. He had become Ordnance Officer, 4th Class, 1 April 1897. Captain Smith served in the South African War, 1899-1902, and took part in the operations in Orange Free State, April to May 1900; in Orange River Colony, May to 29 November 1900; in Cape Colony, south of Orange River, 1899-1900; again in Orange River Colony 30 November 1900 to January 1902; also during operations in Cape Colony, January to 31 May 1902. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 10 September 1901]; received the Queen's Medal with two clasps, and the King's Medal with two clasps. He was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 26 June 1902]: "William Hugh Usher Smith, Captain, Royal Artillery. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia, Warrant and Statutes were sent to the GOC, Cape Colony District, 15 November 1902, and presented at Cape Town 5 January 1903. He was Ordnance Officer, 3rd Class, 1 April 1902 to 8 April 1907; was promoted to Major 1 April 1904, and to Lieutenant Colonel 29 November 1907; was Ordnance Officer, 2nd Class, 14 August 1907 to 7 December 1914. He served in the European War, as Deputy Director of Ordnance Services, 1st Army; became Colonel; Ordnance Officer, 1st Class, 8 December 1914; Temporary Brigadier General from 20 August 1917, and Director of Ordnance Services, British Salonika Force. He was created a CB in 1916, and a CBE in 1919. He married, in 1897, Amy, eldest daughter of Lieutenant Colonel F Hall, late 88th Connaught Rangers, and they had two sons and two daughters.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Artillery |
