TOPIC:

Hello I have discovered my Great Grandad Albert Wallace Robinson No. 4719 was in the Boar War and was awarded a medal for Gallantry. I am a complete Rookie on the Boar War as I know nothing about it. Can you please help me to discover what he was/did etc? Any information of help would be appreciated. I have attached his War Record.

HelenRobinson
Welcome to the site! The reference book on the recipients of the Distinguished Conduct Medal (the only decoration, apart from the VC) awarded to Other Ranks at that time, does not show that a DCM was awarded to your GGF. The first document you posted shows details of "special instances of gallant conduct, etc ...) when your GGF repaired telegraph lines when in proximity to the enemy. You would see in the section of the same form headed, "medals, decorations and annuities" that he is awarded the Queens medal with clasps and also the King's medal. These were the campaign medals for the South African war.
The actual wording in Lord Kitchener's Despatch is: " Sapper A.Robinson,(promoted Corporal), proceeded alone from Oliphant's River station to repair telegraph line and succeeded, though many Boers were in the neighbourhood and no escort could be provided". Interestingly, the recommendation originated from a special despatch by Col. Hippesley, Royal Engineers. Thus, your GGF received a "Mention in Despatches"; a step below a decoration.
Nothing in what I have posted above lessens the value of Sapper Robinson's actions on 30/3/1901. In those days, the Army communications were telegraph line, heliograph or despatch rider. - it cannot function without reliable communications. Your GGF's actions were meritorious, recognised as such right up to the level of the C-in-C and resulted in him being specially promoted for Gallant Conduct.
If you still have your GGF's medals in your family, it would be appreciated if you could post a photo of them.
Regards
IL.