| Judge | Spencer Francis | Lieutenant | JUDGE, SPENCER FRANCIS, Lieutenant, was born 21 January 1861, son of T E B Judge, and Maria, daughter of Major Bellew, DAQMG. He was educated at Repton; joined the Shropshire Light Infantry 12 May 1883, as Lieutenant, from the Militia; was employed with the Egyptian Army 8 April 1886 to 6 June 1887, and 13 April 1888 to 27 October 1896. He served in the Sudan, 1888 to 1889, being present at the action of Gemaizah; action of Arguin; action of Toski; was mentioned in Despatches; received the Medal with two clasps, the Bronze Star, the Fourth Class Osmanieh, the Fourth Class Medjidie, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 8 November 1889]: "For services during the action of Toski. Spencer Francis Judge, Lieutenant, The King's (Shropshire) Light Infantry". Insignia presented by the Sirdar, 1 August 1890. He became Captain 30 March 1891, and took part in the Expedition to Dongola, 1896, as Brigade Major, 4th Brigade; was present at the action of Hafir and at the occupation of Dongola; was mentioned in Despatches, and received a Medal and clasp. He became Adjutant, Militia, 19 September 1898. He married Florence, sixth daughter of E M Clifton. Captain S F Judge, DSO, died 19 November 1911.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | (King's) Shropshire Light Infantry |
| Keary | Henry D'Urban | Captain | KEARY, HENRY D'URBAN, Captain, was born 28 April 1857, at Holkham, son of Hall William Keary, of Bridgenorth, Shropshire, Norfolk, and Helen D'Urban Keary, daughter of Lionel Rodwell of Staithe House, Brancaster, Norfolk. He was educated at Marlborough, and joined the Army as Sub-Lieutenant (unattached), 10 September 1875; became Second Lieutenant 12th Foot, 29 August 1876; Lieutenant, Army, 10 September 1877; was appointed to the Madras Staff Corps 7 May 1877, and proceeded to India. He served with the 1st Madras Infantry, 1876-77, and with it took part in the Afghan War, 1879-80 (Afghan Medal); served with the Madras Pioneers, 1883-85; through the Burma Campaign, and subsequent annexation, to the end of the operations, 1885-7 and 1887-89 (Despatches, Frontier Medal with four clasps); raised and commanded a Military Police Battalion, 1887-92 (clasp); became Captain, Indian Staff Corps, 10 September 1888; commanded a Company of Mounted Infantry during the rebellion of the Wuntho State, 1891-92-93; received a clasp, and was mentioned in Despatches for the action near Kawbei. Sir G Wolseley writes: "I desire to bring prominently to notice the brilliant, services of Captain H d'U Keary. I consider that the advancement of this Officer would be of benefit to the Service. The spirit of dash and confidence inspired by his presence at Kawbei and the prompt manner in which he grappled with the situation and turned the hitherto needlessly cautious state of defence into one of vigorous and determined attack, is worthy of special acknowledgment". Sir James Downes writes: "Captain Keary of the Military Police seems to be an officer of great intrepidity and decision for at a critical moment he assumed—with a position of his Mounted Infantry— the role of Cavalry, and dispersed the enemy, who were attacking Kawbei on three sides". (GGO No 985, dated 16 October 1891.) Captain Keary was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 18 March 1892]: "In recognition of services during the operations in the Wuntho District, Upper Burma. Henry D'Urban Keary, Captain, Indian Staff Corps". Insignia, Warrant, etc, sent to the Commander-in-Chief in India 7 July 1892, and presented by him 26 October 1892. Sir Henry Keary commanded the 91st Punjabs from 1892 to 1909, and was Colonel of the Regiment. He served in the Rebellion of the Northern Chin Hills, 1832-93, and was given the Brevet of Major 29 December 1893, and mentioned in Despatches. He became Major, Indian Army, 10 September 1897. Major Keary served in China, 1900-1902 (China Medal, Despatches, [London Gazette, 14 May 1901]). He became Lieutenant Colonel 10 Sept, 1903. He was given the Brevet of Colonel 10 September 1906; was ADC to HM the King 2 September 1907 to 30 November 1911; became Colonel 20 January 1910, and commanded the 2nd Infantry Brigade, Secunderabad, 1909-10; was Brigade Commander (Colonel on Staff, India), 20 January 1910 to 13 November 1911; was promoted Major General 1 December 1911; was Brigade Commander, India, 14 November 1911 to 12 October 1914; Brigade Commander, Garhwal Brigade, BEF 13 October 1914 to 7 January 1915; promoted Lieutenaut General 1 August 1917; was Divisional Commander, Lahore Division, BEF; Mesopotamian Expeditionary Force, 8 January 1915 to 1917; Divisional Commander, India, 16 October 1917 to 12 August 1918; Divisional Commander, India, 13 August 1918. He was created a KCIE in 1917, and was Colonel, 91st Punjabis. The Garhwal Brigade consisted of the 2nd Battalion Leicestershire Regiment, the 2nd Battalion 3rd Queen Alexandra's Own Gurkha Rifles, the 1st Battalion 39th Garhwal Rifles, and the 2nd Battalion 39th Garhwal Rifles. After the Battle of Givenchy the Corps Commander showed his appreciation of the work done by the following message to the Division: "I congratulate you on the good work done last night, which shows what can be done by enterprise and care. Please send my hearty congratulations to Major General Keary, the Leicesters, and the 2/3rd Gurkhas, for their gallant behaviour". General Sir James Willcocks sent the following message to General Keary: "Please convey to all ranks of Division my own and all their other comrades' best congratulations on having taken part in the battle near Ypres. We are proud of you all. Well done". We are told in "The Indian Corps in France "(page 288) that during the Second Battle of Ypres, "When General Keary moved up to his advanced headquarters near St Jean, he found the road strewn with corpses and dead animals. He himself had a narrow escape, for a shell, bursting in close proximity to his car, blew his kit off the roof, but luckily did no more serious damage". On the 31st July 1906, at St James's Church, Piccadilly, London, W, he married Mabel Louisa Lloyd, daughter of Colonel Malcolm Lloyd, Deputy Commissioner, Burma.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Indian Staff Corps |
| Keene | Alfred | Captain | KEENE, ALFRED, Captain, was born 17 April 1855, son of H G Keene, CIE, and Mrs Keene, daughter of Brigadier General Moore, Indian Army; entered the Army 12 February 1874; served in the Afghan War of 1878-80, taking part in the march from Quetta to the relief of Kandahar. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 25 January 1881], receiving the Medal. He served in Burma, 1885-86,when he was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 2 September 1887], received the Medal and clasp, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 25 November 1886]: "Alfred Keene, Captain, Royal Artillery". His DSO was awarded for operations in Burma. He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel 5 April 1900, and was given the Brevet of Colonel 10 February 1894, becoming Colonel in 1904, and was put on half-pay, late HA, 5 April 1905. He married, in 1894, Janet Frances, widow of Colonel Ayrton Pullan. He was employed at the War Office from December 1914; later as a Staff Captain. In January 1918, Colonel Keene was made a CMG. He died on 21 April 1918.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Artillery |
| Keighley | Charles Marsh | Major | KEIGHLEY, CHARLES MARSH, Major, was born in 1847. He entered the Army in 1867; served in the Afghan War, 1878-79, taking part in both Bazar Valley Expeditions, and in the advance to Kabul of 1878-79 (Despatches; Medal). He became Captain, BSC, 1879; served with the Mahsud-Wuzeeree Expedition in 1881, as Chief Commissariat Officer (Despatches). He became Major in 1887; served with the Hazara Field Force in 1888; was mentioned in Despatches; received the Medal with clasp, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 12 April 1889]: "For services during the operations of Hazara. Charles Marsh Keighley, Major, Bengal Staff Corps". He served on the North-West Frontier in 1897 and 1898; was mentioned ,in Despatches, and received the Medal with two clasps. He served in Tirah, 1897-98, as Chief Commissariat Officer, Lines of Communication (11 October 1897 to 21 January 1898), and subsequently on the Staff. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 5 April 1898]; received the Clasp, and was created a CB. He served in the South African War as District Commissioner, Queen's Medal with two clasps. Colonel Keighley died 10 July 1911.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Bengal Staff Corps |
| Keith | James | Lieutenant Colonel | KEITH, JAMES, Lieutenant Colonel, was born 5 November 1842, son of William Keith, MD; entered the RA 15 December 1861; became Captain, 1875; served in Afghanistan, 1878-9 (Medal); became Major, 1881; was DAAG, RA, Bengal, 1882-87; served with Sikkim Expedition, 1888 (Despatches, Medal with clasp); became Lieutenant Colonel 1 September 1890; served with Hazara Expedition, 1891 (Despatches, clasp); created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 19 November 1891]: "In recognition of services during Hazara Expedition. James Keith, Lieutenant Colonel, Royal Artillery". Insignia, etc, sent to Commander-in-Chief in India; presented in India 22 July 1892. Lieutenant Colonel Keith served with the Isazai Expedition in 1892; was put on retired pay 1 September 1895.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Artillery |
| Kempster | Francis James | Captain | KEMPSTER, FRANCIS JAMES, Captain, was born on the 12th March 1855. He entered the Army in 1875; served in the Afghan War in 1880, with the Khyber Line Fierce, Hissarak Expedition (Medal); in Bechuanaland, 1884-85, commanding the Corps of Guides (honourably mentioned); with the Sudan Frontier Field Force, 1887-88-89. Action of Sarras, Senior Stall Officer to the Column. For his services he was mentioned in Despatches (17 June 1887); received the Medal, the 3rd Class Medjidie, the Khedive's Star, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 12 August 1887]: "For the Action at Sarras, in the Sudan, Francis James Kempster, Captain, Prince of Wales's Leinster Regiment (Royal Canadians)". He was present at the action of Gemaizah, and was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 11 January 1889]; Medal with clasp; Bronze Star. Action of Arguin. Action of Toski. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 6 September 1889], and received the Brevet of Lieutenant Colonel, and a clasp. He became Colonel in 1896. For Ashanti in 1896, as Second in Command, he was mentioned in Despatches, appointed an ADC to the Queen, and received a Star; and for the North-West Frontier in 1897, with the Tirah Expedition, in command of the 3rd Brigade, and was present at the action of Dargai, he was mentioned in Despatches 1 March 1898, and received the Medal with two clasps. He became AAG, Madras, and retired in 1902.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Prince of Wales's Leinster Regiment (Royal Canadia |
| Kennard | Frank | Lieutenant | KENNARD, FRANK, Lieutenant, was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 16 December 1898]: "Frank Kennard, Lieutenant, Army Service Corps. In recognition of services during the recent operations in the Sudan". He died 13 June 1900.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Army Service Corps |
| Kennedy | Macdougall Ralston | Lieutenant | KENNEDY, MACDOUGALL RALSTON, Lieutenant, was born 20 December 1873, son of the Reverend A Kennedy. He was educated at Edinburgh Academy, and at the Royal Military Academy, Woolwich, and entered the Royal Engineers 25 July 1893, becoming Lieutenant 25 July 1896. He served in Kandia in the affair of 6th September, was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 24 January 1899], and created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 7 March 1899]: "Macdougall Ralston Kennedy, Lieutenant, Royal Engineers. In recognition of services during the recent outbreak in Kandia, Crete, including the affair of the 6th September 1898". The Insignia were presented by HRH The Princess of Wales on board the Royal yacht Osborne, at Canea, Crete, on 28 April 1899. He was employed with the Egyptian Army from 21 July 1899, and served in the Nile Expedition of 1899, receiving the Egyptian Medal and clasp. He was promoted to Captain 21 July 1899, and was appointed Director of Public Works, Sudan, on 1 April 1904. He retired from the Royal Engineers 21 July 1909, and was created a CMG in 1912; became Major, Reserve of Officers, 2 November 1916. In 1904 Captain Kennedy married a daughter of Major General William Henry Ralston and Christina Jane, second daughter of Alexander Mitchell, of Sanchrie.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Engineers |
| Keppel | Colin Richard | Commander | KEPPEL, COLIN RICHARD, Commander, Royal Navy, was born 3 December 1862, in London, son of Admiral of the Fleet the Honourable Sir Henry Keppel and Lady Keppel, daughter of Martin West, Barrister-at-Law, and Lady Maria West. He joined HMS Britannia in 1875; was Midshipman of Inconstant during the Egyptian War of 1882 (Egyptian Medal; Khedive's Bronze Star); Sub-Lieutenant of Invincible; served with the Naval Brigade landed for service in the Sudan; with the Nile Expedition for the relief of General Gordon at Khartoum 1884-S5; present in the SS Sophis with Lord C Beresford at the relief of Sir C Wilson. He most highly distinguished himself. Lord Charles Beresford thus speaks of him in his Despatch: "I consider that we owe our safety on the steamer, as well as the safety of Sir C Wilson and his party, who undoubtedly would have been killed if the steamer had been destroyed, to the untiring energy of Sub-Lieutenant Keppel". The correspondent of the 'Army and Navy Gazette' says: "Then came a characteristic piece of calculated audacity. Lord Charles noticed that a nuggar in which Sir Charles Wilson had escaped from the wreck of his steamer, had drifted down with some of Gordon's men on board, and had stranded close to the fort. The hero of the Condor sent Keppel with a small boat and half a dozen blue-jackets to the rescue. They cut her out under the very guns and brought her safely off, Keppel being hit in the groin, but luckily only by a spent, or more probably a ricochet, bullet". He was wounded, promoted to Lieutenant for this service (Nile, 1884; five clasps). Appointed to be Equerry to HRH Admiral the Duke of Edinburgh 28 December 1886. He was appointed Extra Equerry January 1896. Flag-Lieutenant to His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh when Commander-in-Chief in the Mediterranean, 1886-89, and at Plymouth August 1899 to June 1893; lent to Egyptian Government for service on the Nile, 1897-98; commanded the Flotilla on the Nile. Queen Victoria was pleased to give orders for the following appointment to the Distinguished Service Order "in recognition of the services of the undermentioned Officer, while attached to the Egyptian Army during the recent operations in the Sudan, resulting; in the capture of Abu Hamed and the subsequent occupation of Berber. To be a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order, viz: Commander Colin Richard Keppel, RN, 11 March 1898. Services in command of the gun-boats with the Nile Expedition, 1898, and was thus mentioned in Despatches by the Sirdar: The exceptional services performed by Commander Keppel and his subordinate officers of the Royal Navy is deserving of special mention. These gun-boats have been for a long time past almost constantly under fire; they have made bold reconnaissances past the enemy's forts and rifle pits, and on the 1st and 2nd of September aided in the capture of all the forts on both banks of the Nile, and in making the fortifications of Omdurman untenable. In bringing to notice the readiness of resource, daring and ability of Commander Keppel and his officers, I wish also to add my appreciation of the services rendered by Engineer E Boyd, RN, and the engineering staff, as well as of the detachment of the Royal Marine Artillery and the gun crews, who have gained the hearty praise of their commanders". Commander Keppel was again mentioned in Despatches after the fall of Khartoum, and received the CB for his services on this occasion (1898). He was noted for promotion on having the requisite sea service (Medal and two clasps); promoted to the rank of Captain 30 May 1899, and received the thanks of both Houses of Parliament, 1899, for services in the Sudan (1899); CVO 3 April 1906; Cross of the Order of Naval and Military Merit from the King of Spain; Rear Admiral in Command of Atlantic Fleet, 1909-10. Admiral Keppel retired in 1913. He was created a KCVO in 1908 and a KCIE in 1911, and was appointed Sergeant-at-Arms, House of Commons, in 1915. Sir Colin Keppel was Extra Equerry to His Majesty, and was Equerry in Ordinary. He was a Director of Hawthorn, Leslie and Co, Engineers. Admiral Keppel married, in 1889, Henrietta Mary, daughter of Major General R Blundell, and they had two sons.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Navy |
| Ker | Charles Arthur | Lieutenant | KER, CHARLES ARTHUR, Lieutenant, was born 18 April 1875, at Clifton, Gloucestershire, son of Charles Buchanan Ker, of Clifton, Gloucestershire. He joined the Royal Artillery 15 June 1895. He became Lieutenant 15 June 1898; was employed with the West African Frontier Force 16 February 1898 to 9 April 1899; took part in the operations on the Niger, including the Illah Expedition, and was present at four engagements, including that of Iseli Nipatima. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 23 May 1899]; received the Medal and Clasp, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 9 January 1900]: "Charles Arthur Ker, Lieutenant, Royal Artillery. In recognition of services in the recent operations in the Niger Territories". The Insignia, Warrant and Statutes were sent to the Commander-in-Chief, South Africa, and the DSO presented by the Colonel on the Staff, Commanding Royal Artillery, 22 April 1900, at Ladysmith (Vide Sir R Buller, 22 April 1900). He served in the South African War, 1897-98, and was present at the Relief of Ladysmith, including the operations of 17 to 24 January 1900, and action at Spion Kop; operations of 5-7 February 1900, and action at Vaal Kranz; operations on Tugela Heights (14-27 February 1900). Operations in Orange River Colony, November 1900, to April 1901 (Despatches [London Gazette, 10 September 1901]; Queen's Medal with six clasps). Lieutenant Ker was promoted to Captain 1 March 1901; was Divisional Adjutant, Plymouth, Royal Artillery, 6 October 1902 to 31 March 1903; Adjutant, Royal Artillery, 1 April 1903 to 5 October 1905. He was Officer, Company of Gentlemen Cadets, Royal Military College, Camberley, 1 September 1906 to 21 January 1910; Student at the Staff College, Camberley, 1910 to 1911; DAA and QMG, South-West Coast Defences, Southern Command, 6 June 1912 to 21 April 1914; GSO, 2nd Grade, Royal Military College, Kingston, Canada, 22 April 1914 to 30 November 1914; was awarded the Brevet rank of Major 5 August 1914. He served in the European War. Was Brigade Major, Royal Artillery, 1 December 1914 to 30 April 1915; GSO, 2nd Grade, Royal Artillery, France, 1 May 1915 to 1 February 1916; GSO, 1st Grade, France, 5 February 1916 to 23 May 1916; GS01, Royal Naval Division, British Armies in France, 24 May 1916 to 28 July 1916; GS01, Lines of Communication, British Armies in France, 29 July 1916 to 22 December 1916; GSO1, attached Portuguese Division, British Armies in France, 23 December 1916 to 6 January 1918; Brigadier General, General Staff (British Mission, attached to Portuguese Expeditionary Force, British Armies in France), 7 January 1918. He was twice mentioned in Despatches; was given the Brevet of Lieutenant Colonel 1 January 1917, and of Colonel 1 January 1918, and created a CMG. On 18 July 1898, at Yealmpton, Devonshire, he married Blanche, second daughter of Charles Bewes, of Gnaton Hall, Devon, and their children were: Alan Charles Bewes Ker and Mary Blanche Ker.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Artillery |
| Kerr | Frederic Walter | Lieutenant | KERR, FREDERIC WALTER, Lieutenant, was born 20 May 1867, third son of Admiral Lord Frederic H Kerr, and Emily, daughter of General Sir Peregrine Maitland, GCB. He was educated at Charterhouse; was Page of Honour to HM the Queen, 1879-83, and became Lieutenant, Gordon Highlanders, 25 August 1886; Adjutant, Gordon Highlanders, 31 January 1892 to 30 January 1896; took part in the operations in Chitral, 1895, serving with the Relief Force, and was present at the storming of the Malakand Pass. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 15 November 1895]; received the Medal with clasp, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 21 January 1896]: "Frederic Walter Kerr, Lieutenant, Gordon Highlanders. For services during the operations of the Chitral Relief Force". He served in 1897-98 on the North-West Frontier of India, with the Tirah Expeditionary Force, and took part in the action of Dargai, receiving two additional clasps to his Medal. After serving for some time with his battalion in the South African War, he was appointed a Brigade Major in April 1900, holding that appointment till December 1901. He took part in the advance on Kimberley, including the action at Magersfontein; was present at operations in the Orange Free State, at Paardeberg, and the actions at Poplar Grove and Driefontein; in Cape Colony, 1899-1900, and at. operations in the Orange River Colony in 1900-1. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 16 April 1901]; was given the Brevet of Major 29 November 1900, and received the Queen's Medal with four clasps. He was DAQMG, 1st Division, 1st Army Corps, 1904 to 1905; became Major 21 December 1904; DAA and QMG, 1st Division, Aldershot Army Corps, 1905 to 1908; was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel 4 July 1908; Was Deputy Assistant Director of Movements, Headquarters of Army, 6 October 1908; As DAD of Movements, he did valuable service in connection with the new mobilization scheme, which has stood successfully the test imposed on it by the war. In the spring of 1913 he became GSO1, Scottish Command, and in the Great War he went out as GSO1 on the Line of Communication, his appointment dating from 5 August 1914. On the 21 September he was appointed GSO1 with the 1st Division. He was killed by a bursting shell at the headquarters of the 1st and 2nd Divisions at Chateau Hooge, near Ypres, on 31 October 1914. For his services in the Great War he was mentioned in Sir J French's Despatch of 8 October 1914. He married, in 1902, Lady Helen Kerr, daughter of the 9th Marquess of Lothian, and they had two sons.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Gordon Highlanders |
| Kirkpatrick | Richard Trench | Captain | KIRKPATRICK, RICHARD TRENCH, Captain, was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 20 May 1898]: "Richard Trench Kirkpatrick, Captain, Leinster Regiment. In recognition of services during the recent operations in Uganda". Captain Kirkpatrick died 26 November 1898.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Prince of Wales's Leinster Regiment (Royal Canadia |
| Kirkpatrick | William | Major | KIRKPATRICK, WILLIAM, Major, was born 2 February 1863, at Bangalore, India, son of Deputy Surgeon General James Kirkpatrick, and of Margaret Jane Proctor, daughter of Captain William Proctor, 21st Dragoons. He was educated at Blairlogie, Stirlingshire, and joined the Army 25 August 1883. After becoming Lieutenant he served in the Burmese Expedition, 1885-87 (Medal and clasp; Despatches), and in the 1st Miranzai Expedition, 1891; with the Kurrani Force, 1892-93. He became Captain 25 August 1894, and served on the North-West Frontier of India, 1897-98, in Tochi; with the Gumatti Expedition, 1899 (Medal with clasp). He was promoted Major 25 August 1901. Major W Kirkpatrick took part in the Mahsud-Waziri operations in 1901 and 1902. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 8 August 1902]; received the clasp, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 2 September 1902]: "William Kirkpatrick, Major, Indian Staff Corps. For services during the Mahsud-Waziri operations". The DSO was awarded for personal gallantry during a rearguard action. The Insignia, Warrant, etc, were sent to His Excellency the Commander-in-Chief, and presented at Delhi 27 December 1902. He retired from the Indian Army with the rank of Major 1 January 1905. Major Kirkpatrick married, in 1906, Lilias Elizabeth, daughter of Captain Robert Stewart, DL, of Westwood, Linlithgowshire.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Indian Staff Corps |
| Knowles | George | Lieutenant | KNOWLES, GEORGE, Lieutenant, was born 16 October 1873, younger son of Colonel Fred Knowles, 2nd Bengal Cavalry, and Jane Barbara Knowles, of Tisbury Road, Hove. He was educated at Wellington College, and Sandhurst, and joined the Derbyshire Regiment 19 July 1893. He became Lieutenant 10 June 1896, and was transferred to the Indian Staff Corps 6 August 1897. He served in Southern Nigeria in 1901, in operations in the Ishan and Ulia countries (Medal with clasp), and in the Aro Expedition, 1901-2, in which he was severely wounded, and for his services he was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 12 September 1902], and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 12 September 1902]: "George Knowles, Lieutenant, Indian Staff Corps. For services during the Aro Expedition in Southern Nigeria". The Insignia, Warrant and Statutes were sent to the Commander-in-Chief in India, and presented at Fyzabad 25 October 1904. He joined the 2nd Lancers, Indian Army, becoming Captain 19 July 1902, and served in East Africa, Somaliland, 1903-4, commanding the 6th Somali Camel Corps from 19 August 1903. He was employed on Special Service with the Somaliland Field Force 14 January 1903 to 16 November 1914; served in Natal in the Zulu Rebellion, 1906, and was promoted Major 19 July 1911. Major Knowles served in the European War from 1914 to 1918, in France, and was twice mentioned in Despatches, and received a Bar to the Distinguished Service Order, presented in London 9 February 1918 [London Gazette, 4 February 1918]: "George Knowles, DSO, Major, Indian Cavalry. He took command of the regiment when his Commanding Officer became a casualty, and remained in command though he was wounded. He made most skilful dispositions, and clung to his position with the greatest determination, though surrounded on all sides, until he was relieved. He showed great ability and courage". Major Knowles married, 29 January 1918, at Christ Church, Mayfair, London, Florence Eugenie, only daughter of Colonel J O Goldie, Indian Army, of Hove, Sussex.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Indian Staff Corps |
| Lambert | Walter Miller | Major | LAMBERT, WALTER MILLER, Major, was born 8 May 1843, youngest son of Richard Lambert, of Lyston Hall, Essex, and of Charlotte, daughter of John Campbell. He was educated at Cheltenham College, and entered the Royal Marine Artillery 26 June 1860, becoming Captain in 1875 and Major in 1885. He served in Burma, 1885-86, in command of the Royal Marines attached to the Naval Brigade; was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 22 June 1886], and created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 13 January 1887]: "Walter Miller Lambert, Major, Royal Marine Artillery. For the operations in Burma". The Insignia were presented to him by the Queen 14 February 1887. He had been promoted to Major 6 August 1885. He retired on 1 August 1886. Lieutenant Colonel Lambert's favourite recreations were shooting, fishing and riding. In 1878 he married Frances, only child of F B Courtenay, and they had one son and two daughters.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Marine Artillery |
| Lambton | Charles | Major | LAMBTON, THE HON CHARLES, Major, was born 3 November 1857, fourth son of the 2nd Earl of Durham and Beatrix, daughter of the 1st Duke of Abercorn. He was educated at Eton, and was gazetted to the 5th Foot 31 May 1876, becoming Lieutenant 31 May 1877; Adjutant, Northumberland Fusiliers, 2 February 1881 to 8 March 1882; Captain 25 July 1883. He was ADC to the Viceroy of Ireland 12 March 1880 to 4 August 1886, and 13 September 1886 to 5 October 1889, and became Major 21 January 1895. He served in the Nile Expedition in 1898, being present at the Battle of Khartoum; was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 30 September 1898]; received the Egyptian Medal with clasp, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 15 November 1898]: "The Honourable Charles Lambton, Major, The Northumberland Fusiliers. In recognition of services during the recent operations in the Sudan". The Insignia were presented by the Queen at Windsor 1 December 1898. He served in the South African War from 1899 to 1902, in command of the 2nd Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers from 9 April 1900 to 31 May 1902. He was present in the advance on Kimberley, including actions at Belmont, Enslin, Modder River and Magorsfontein. Operations in the Orange Free State, February to May 1900. Operations in the Transvaal, west, of Pretoria, July to 29 November 1900. Operations in Orange River Colony, May to June 1900; Operations in Cape Colony, south of Orange River, 1899-1900. Operations in Cape Colony, north of Orange River. Commandant, Dewetsdorp. Operations in the Transvaal 30 November 1900 to August 1901. Operations in Orange River Colony, August 1901 to 31 May 1902. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 26 January 1900]; received the Queen's Medal with four clasps; the King's Modal with two clasps, and was given the Brevet of Colonel 29 November 1900. He commanded the 2nd Battalion, 5th Fusiliers, 1900-1, and retired with the rank of Colonel 17 February 1904. Colonel Lambton married Marion, daughter of H Garforth, and they had one daughter.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Northumberland Fusiliers |
| Lamport | William | Lieutenant | LAMPORT, WILLIAM, Lieutenant, joined the Royal Artillery; became Lieutenant 5 July 1884; served in Burma 1886-87, as Orderly Officer to Brigadier General Lockhart; was mentioned in Despatches, received the Medal and clasp, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 25 November 1887]: "William Lamport, Lieutenant, Royal Artillery. For services in Burma". He died 1 June 1890.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Artillery |
| Lawrence | Freeling Ross | Lieutenant | LAWRENCE, FREELING ROSS, Lieutenant, was born 21 September 1872; was educated at Wellington College, and became Second Lieutenant, 14th Hussars, 7 March 1894, and was promoted to Lieutenant 13 November 1895. He was on Special Extra Regimental Employment 27 August 1898 to 17 November 1899, serving in West Africa in 1898, under the Royal Niger Company, in the operations in the Niger Territories, including the Illah and Siama Expeditions. He was mentioned in Despatches, and created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 30 June 1899]: "Freeling Ross Lawrence, Lieutenant, 14th Hussars. In recognition of services during the recent operations in West Africa". The Insignia, etc, were forwarded to the Royal Niger Company, and presented to Lieutenant Lawrence at Likoja 20 October 1899. He served in the South African War, 1899-1902, as Adjutant, 14th Hussars, 18 November 1899 to 11 August 1901. He became Captain 11 July 1900. He was present at the Relief of Ladysmith, including 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 the Orange Free Stale, February to May, 1900, including actions at Houtnek (Thoba Mountain) and Zand River. Operations in the Transvaal in May and June 1900, including actions near Johannesburg, Pretoria and Diamond Hill (11 and 12 June). Operations in the Transvaal, east of Pretoria, July to 29 November 1900, including actions at Belfast (26 and 27 August). Operations in the Transvaal 30 November 1900 to April 1901, and August to December 1901. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 8 February and 10 September 1901]; received the Queen's Medal with nine clasps, and was given the Brevet of Major 29 November 1900. He was Brigade Major, 2nd Cavalry Brigade, 24 May 1905 to 30 June 1907; became Major 22 February 1907; was GSO, 3rd Grade, Headquarters of Army, from 1 July 1907. Major Lawrence was in 1913 General Staff Officer, 9th Division, Secunderabad. He died on 9 March 1914, at Netley Hospital.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | 14th (The King's) Hussars |
| Lawrie | Charles Edward | Captain | LAWRIE, CHARLES EDWARD, Captain and Brevet Major, was born in London, 7 December 1864, youngest son of Andrew Lawrie, of Mount Mascal, Bexley, Kent, and 1 Chesham Place, London, and of Eleanor, daughter of Reverend E Johnson. He was educated at Cheam; Eton, and the Royal Military Academy, Woolwich, and joined the Royal Artillery 15 February 1884. He was employed with the Bechuanaland Border Police Force 1 January 1889 to 3 January 1892; was on special service with the Lagos Jehu Expedition 33 March 1892 to 30 July 1892 (Medal and clasp; Despatches [London Gazette, 1 July 1902]; slightly wounded). He became Captain 4 March 1893; was employed with the Egyptian Army 13 October 1893 to 29 November 1898; served in the Expedition to Dongola. Operations of 7 June and 19 September (Despatches [London Gazette, 3 November 1833]; Brevet of Major 18 November 1896; Khedive's Medal with two clasps). Nile Expedition in 1897 (clasp). Nile Expedition in 1898. Cavalry reconnaissance of 33 March. Battle of the Atbara (clasp; 4th Class Osmanieh); Battle of Omdurman. He was mentioned in Despatches 30 November 1893; two clasps; Sudan Medal, and created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 15 November 1898]: "Charles Edward Lawrie, Captain and Brevet Major, Royal Artillery. In recognition of services in Egypt and the Sudan, including the Battles of Atbara and Khartoum". The Insignia were sent to the GOC, Egypt, and presented by the Duke of Connaught at Omdurman. He served in South Africa, 1899-1900, taking part in operations in the Orange Free State, February to May 1900. Operations in Orange River Colony, May to 29 November 1900, including action at Wittebergen 1 to 29 July Operations in Gape Colony, south of Orange River, 1899-1900. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 10 September 1901], and received the Queen's Medal with three clasps. He was promoted to Major 15 March 1900; Lieutenant Colonel 23 April 1910, and Colonel 14 December 1913. Colonel Lawrie served in the European War from 1914, as Temporary Brigadier General, Royal Artillery, 19th Division, New Armies, British Expeditionary Force, 3 June 1915 to 25 December 1915; Brigadier General, Royal Artillery, 2nd Army Corps, British Armies in France, 26 December 1915 to 18 February 1917; Temporary Major General Commanding 63rd Division, British Armies in France, 19 February 1917 to 1 September 1918. He was mentioned in Despatches, and created a CB in 1915. He married, in 1898, Constance, only daughter of F B Salomans.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Artillery |
| Leach | Harold Pemberton | Major | LEACH, HAROLD PEMBERTON, Major and Brevet Lieutenant Colonel, late RE, 4th son of Lieutenant Colonel Sir George Archibald Leach, KGB, RE; born 1851; first commission 1871; promoted Colonel by Brevet in 1894; retired in 1908 and became Honorary Brigadier General in 1912. Served with 1st Division Khyber Field Force in command of Company, Bengal Sappers and Miners, 1878-79; was present at capture of Ali Musjid, action at Deh Savak and the operation in the Bazar Valley (Despatches). Subsequently in the Kurram Valley, 1879-80, when he took part in Zaimuckt Expedition, including the taking of Zowa (Despatches, thanks of Government of India, Medal with clasp). Lent to Home Government for service with Camel Transport during the Nile Expedition, 1884-85; present at the actions of Abu Klea and Gubat; Senior Transport Officer on withdrawal of Force from Metemneh (Medal with two clasps; Bronze Star; Brevet of Major). Senior RE with Lushai Expedition 1888-89 (honourably mentioned; Medal with clasp). CRE with Chin-Lushai Expedition. 1889-90 (Despatches, clasp, Brevet of Lieutenant Colonel); Created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 30 May 1891]: "Harold Pemberton Leach, Major and Brevet Lieutenant Colonel, Royal Engineers". CRE (Colonel on the Staff) with Chitral Relief Force, 1895. Present at taking of Malakand and action on Panjkora River (Despatches, Medal with clasp; CB). Commandant Bombay Sappers, 1890-91. Military Secretary to C-in-C Bombay, 1891-93. Commandant Bengal Sappers, 1893-1900; Brigadier General commanding Presidency District, 1900-05 (thanks of Government of India for despatch of China Expedition from Calcutta); also officiated in command of Peshawar District in 1896, and again in 1898; Lahore District in 1901 and as DQMG Army Headquarters, India, in 1898. During the Great War commanded the 89th Brigade, 4th Army (subsequently turned into 1st Training Reserve Brigade), 1914-1917 (Secretary of State's List, CBE). Subsequently served as Group Commander, Surrey Volunteers.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Engineers |
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