1900, Essenbosch Farm
LAWRENCE, TOM, Sergeant, served in the Boer War of 1899-1901, and was awarded the Victoria Cross [London Gazette, 15 January 1901]: "T Lawrence, Sergeant, 17th Lancers. Date of Act of Bravery: 7 August 1900. On the 7th August 1900, when on patrol duty near Essenbosch Farm, Sergeant Lawrence and a Private (Hayman) were attacked by twelve or fourteen Boers. Private Hayman's horse was shot, and the man was thrown, dislocating his shoulder. Sergeant Lawrence at once came to his assistance, extricated him from under the horse, put him on his own horse, and sent him on to the picket. Sergeant Lawrence took the soldier's carbine, and with his own carbine as well, kept the Boers off until Private Hayman was safely out of range. He then retired for some two miles on foot, followed by the Boers, and keeping them off till assistance arrived". Sergeant Lawrence was decorated by King Edward on 12 August 1902, in London. He became Sergeant and Riding Master in the 18th Hussars, and was promoted Honorary Lieutenant and later Captain.
