Bayard | Reginald | | Major | BAYARD, REGINALD, Major, was born 11 September 1860, son of Robertson Bayard, BL, of St Louis, New Brunswick. He was educated privately; entered the 2nd Foot 23 April, 1881; became Lieutenant 1 July 1881; was Adjutant, East Kent Regiment, 11 April, 1885, to 10 April, 1890; became Captain 7 January 1893; was Adjutant, Militia, 1 February 1896 to 31 July 1902. He served in South Africa, 1899-1902, as Garrison Adjutant and Station Staff Officer, Kroonstad, 26 June, 1901 to 10 January 1902; in operations in Orange River Colony, May to 29 November 1900, including action at Lindley (26 June). He was mentioned in Despatches twice [London Gazette, 17 June and 29 July 1902]; received the Medal with two clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 31 October 1902]: "Reginald Bayard, Major, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". Major Bayard served in the operations in the interior of Southern Arabia, 1903-4. He became Lieutenant Colonel 7 February 1907; was in command of the 2nd Battalion The Buffs, 1909-11; retired 23 August 1911, as Colonel; served as Brigade Commander, Territorial Force (late The Buffs); was given the honorary rank of Brigadier General 5 January 1918. His favourite recreations were hunting, polo, cricket, golf and skating. Brigadier General R Bayard married Edith (died 1916), daughter of John Geain, JP, County Dublin, and they had one daughter.
DSO, QSA (2) CC OFS (Maj & Adj), KSA (2) (Maj DSO E Kent Regt). Spink May 1979 £450. DNW 1999 £1500. Ursual 2002 $C7200. OMRS Sep 2005 £2,800
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | (Buffs) East Kent Regiment |