| Bennett | Alfred Joshua | | Captain | BENNETT, ALFRED JOSHUA, Captain, was born at Brucedale Park, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, 10 January 1865, son of B B Bennett, JP. He was educated at Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, and at Fort Street College, Sydney; served with the New South Wales Contingent in Egypt, 1885; took part in the advance on Tarrai (Medal with clasp for Suakin, and Khedive's Star); served for 15 years with the New South Wales Military Forces. He served in the South African War as Captain, 1900-02, commanding a squadron of the 2nd New South Wales Contingent, 1900; took part in the operations in the Orange Free State, February to May 1900, including the actions at Poplar Grove, Driefontein (where he was severely wounded) and Karee Siding. He was also present at the operations in the Orange River Colony (May to November 1900); at all the engagements under Colonel de Lisle, induding Bothaville. Ho was promoted to Major in 1901, and was in command of the 2nd Contingent, New South Wales Mounted Infantry (December 26 1900, to March 29, 1901). Operations in the Transvaal, Orange River Colony and Cape Colony, November 1900, to May 1902; was with Colonel Rimington's Column. For general service throughout the war, and especially for courage and resource at Bothaville, he was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 19 April, 1901]: "Alfred Joshua Bennett, Captain, New South Wales Mounted Infantry. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia, etc, were presented by HRH the Prince of Wales, on Horse Guards' Parade, 1 July 1902. He became Major, Reserve of Officers, 8 July 1905. During the European War he was created a CMG, 1915, and was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | New South Wales contingent |
