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Pictures courtesy of Spink

DCM VR (3339 Serjt: J. Batchelor. 3rd Worcester Regt);
QSA (3) Cape Colony, Transvaal, Wittebergen (3339 Clr:-Serjt: J. Batchelor. Worcester: Regt);
KSA (2) (3339 Clr:-Serjt: J. Batchelor. Worcester: Regt);
British War and Victory Medals with MID (Q.M. & Capt. J. Batchelor.);
Army LS&GC Ed VII (3339 C.Sjt: J. Batchelor. Worc: Regt);
Army MSM GVI (3339 C.Sjt. J. Batchelor. D.C.M. Worc.R.)

Approximately 22 DCM's awarded to the Worcestershire Regiment for the Boer War.

DCM London Gazette 27 September 1901. Citation states: 'At Middlefontein on 23rd January, 1901, finding at dawn that the Boers had rushed a kopje close to camp, quickly collected a party of men and seized some rising ground to right rear of the Boers. By this prompt action the recovery of the kopje from the enemy was greatly assisted. On the 24th January when on rear guard covering retirement of "D" Company with a small party of men.'

MID London Gazette 7 May & 10 September 1901; 18 December 1917.

James Batchelor was born in Selly Oak, Birmingham on 15 July 1874. He was the son of James and Harriet Batchelor and brother to John, (elder), living in the High Street, Selly Oak and younger sisters and brothers - Charles, Emma, Harriot, William and Ellen, living in the family home of 3, Hubert Road, Boumebrook, Birmingham. He enlisted into the Worcestershire Regiment on 13 September 1892 at Worcester. His trade at the time of enlistment was a Copper Tube Drawer and he was residing in Birmingham.

He was given his army number of 3339 and posted to Curragh Camp in Ireland to join the 2nd Battalion, where he remained until 8 November 1893, when the Battalion left Ireland for Aldershot, arriving on 11 November.

Whilst at Aldershot, Batchelor began to study and improve his education, earning a 3rd Class Certificate in Education on 28 March 1894. He also received his first Good Conduct Pay and Badge on 13 September and was promoted to Lance Corporal on 16 October of that year. Continuing his studies, he was awarded his 2nd Class Certificate of Education on 19 October and was additionally promoted Corporal on 29 January 1895.

Batchelor's first real experience of foreign shores was a posting with his Battalion to Malta on 14 November 1895, which also coincided with further promotion to Lance Sergeant. The Battalion arrived in Malta on 21 November of that year. Keen to advance himself further, he studied for promotion to Sergeant and his examination pass was published in Regimental Orders on 3 December 1895.

Whilst in Malta, he was examined in his competency to swim and was able to swim 200 yards, he was promoted to Sergeant on 6 June. During his posting in Malta, Batchelor's new swimming qualification was put to good use during an incident involving the Regimental Sergeant Major John Ryder. A former friend and fellow soldier records:

'It falls to the lot of very few to save the Sergeant Major from drowning. The Sergeants boat was out one evening with eight oars and the tiller. The Sergt.-Major, John Ryder and Jim were of the crew. It was the custom to bathe from the boat. The S.M. was soon in difficulties - he went down once - twice and then Jim leapt from the boat and caught hold of the S.M. and with help, hauled him aboard. S.M. Ryder lived to the age of 91 and reached the rank of Major and Quartermaster. Jim was always proud to repeat this story at the reunions.'

3 October 1897 saw the Battalion embark from Malta to Bermuda, where it arrived on 19 November. On 13 September 1898, he received his second Good Conduct Pay and Badge.

After remaining in Bermuda for what must have been a very pleasant stay for a little over two years, Batchelor returned to the U.K on 10 October 1899, arriving at Southampton on 6 December. By this time, the Boer War was well underway and the British Army, together with the ideals of British Imperialism had been given a huge knock by what the people of the day regarded as no more than 'armed farmers'. A 'quick win' colonial war was not going to be had and huge reinforcements were required to 'tip the scales' against a foe who knew their homeland well and how to use its topography to maximum effect and who were also expert shots with their German supplied Mauser Rifles.

The 2nd Battalion left Southampton for South Africa on 17 December 1899, arriving on 10 January1900 and forming part of the 12th Infantry Brigade under Brigadier General Clement, part of the 6th Division under Lt. General Kelly-Kenny, C.B. Moving up country, they detrained at Rensburg on 14 January and commenced operations in Cape Colony, south of the Orange River, near Colesberg, on 21 January. On 2 February 1900, Batchelor was promoted to Colour Sergeant.

Remaining in this area, the Battalion occupied a vulnerable position on the extreme right flank of the British line and were subjected to shelling by the Boers. On 7 February, Batchelor's company went out on outpost duty in the hills for a period of four days. However, it was on 9 February that Batchelor led a patrol of 6 men and captured two Boers - the first prisoners of the Brigade. The prisoners were interrogated and stated that a Boer attack was imminent on the Battalion's position, but final approval was being sought from Boer commanders at Bloemfontein.

The reply would be too late for an attack to be organised for Saturday, 10th and the Boers would not attack on a Sunday, so the attack would come on Monday, 12th, which proved correct. Sufficient time was given for defensive preparations to be made - Batchelor had done good work. Batchelor's Company was withdrawn on the 11th to take up a position on the left front of the camp.

On the 12th, the Boers launched their intended attack against the British outposts, concentrating their efforts on three hills or "Kopjes" - Signal Hill, Burnt Hill and Pinnacle Hill - the ground being defended by the Battalion. As the attack developed, '13' Coy moved to take up a position on Stubbs Hill to beat off the Boer attack. "The fight lasted throughout the 12th and the pressure and strength of the enemy compelled the Battalion to retire to await further instructions", stated Batchelor.

As a result of the gallant defence of these positions, the hills became known as the "Worcester Kopjes". In this action, 3 officers, including the C.O. and 22 men were killed, with 3 officers and 47 men wounded - Lt. Bartholomew was awarded the D.S.O. The battle became known as the battle of Slingersfontein.

Following the action at Slingersfontein, the Battalion continued north towards Bloemfontein and crossed the Orange River on 15 March. As both the Norvals Pont and Colesberg Road Bridges had been blown up by the enemy, the crossing of the river, which at this point was 100 yards wide, had to be made in boats. It was thought that the Boers may be waiting on the far bank amongst the bushes, so whilst two Infantry battalions remained on the south side of the river with the artillery guns to provide covering fire, the remainder dashed across in the boats, rowing at full speed. On reaching the other side, it was found that the Boers had already left.

The engineers quickly assembled a pontoon bridge that enabled the guns and supplies to be transported across - the Brigade had entered the Orange Free State.

The Boers in this region began to return to their farms and every farm flew the white flag of surrender. Eventually, Bloemfontein was reached after many days of marching. Next came the protection of a convoy of provisions from Winberg to Senekal which intelligence suggested was going to be attacked by the enemy. The 12th Infantry Brigade under Brig. Gen. Clement moved to reinforce the convoy and met up with it at Riet Spruit, where on 23 June, 1900, the enemy launched an attack in freezing conditions, consisting of artillery and rifle fire. This was immediately answered in the same style and the enemy retired. However, throughout the journey to Senekal, the Brigade came under daily fire, escorting supplies. This continued until the surrender of General Prinsloo on 18 July. For these days of fighting, those soldiers present were to be awarded the clasp "Wittebergen" to their Queen's South Africa Medal.

After this period of engagement, the Brigade were hurried up to Pretoria, arriving on 18 August. Here, they had little rest and from July to December, 1900, saw much marching and skirmishing with the enemy in the Western Transvaal area, being required to clear the Magaliesberg Mountains and the Witwater Range.

It was during these activities on 10 September 1900, that Batchelor was again brought to notice for his good work. De la Rey was occupying a strong position at Boschfontein on a long line of Konjes stretching across the valley. The brigade advanced at 7am from Heckpoort in attack formation and met with considerable resistance on the right of the line. It was not until mid afternoon that the main body of Boers were located and the Battalion advanced on this position to within 700 yds. Here they waited while mounted troops on the left tried to turn their position - this failed. Darkness was awaited and then the Battalion rushed the kopjes on which the Boers were located and captured the position, but at a cost of twelve wounded. Following this action, Battalion Orders stated:

'The following N.C.O.'s and men have been brought to the notice of the Commanding Officer for gallantry in the field in the action at Boeshfontein on the 10th inst. He has the greatest pleasure in publishing their names so that all the Battalion may know them..."D" Coy - 3339 Sgt. Batchelor.'

Official recognition of his gallantry was also recorded by the Commander-in-Chief, Lord Kitchener in his despatch dated 8 March 1901.

Marching, escorting and fighting continued through the rest of that year and into January 1901, where on 23 January, the mobile column left Oliphant's Nek and marched about eleven miles through a defile, being sniped at the whole time. Camp was set up at Middlefontein being surrounded by small kopjes on which were placed picquets as a guard against the Boers. However, during the night the enemy had moved nearer in increasing numbers and by dawn, had completely surrounded the camp. The picquets on the nearest kopjes were rushed by the Boers and had to be retaken and it was here that Batchelor came to prominent notice again. Orders were given to retake the kopjes and Batchelor, with his half company of men began to retake the position. During the attack, the officer, Lt. E.B. Hankey, (later Brigadier-General, CB., D.S.O.), was severely wounded and Batchelor, '...led his men with boldness and gallantry and firing and cheering, rushed the position and the post was safely in our hands again' (letter by Captain Bradish, 21 September 1953, refers).

The fighting did not stop at this. The next day the column was under attack again, but managed to force it's way out - the Worcesters fighting a rear guard action for a distance of six miles before the column was met and assisted by reinforcements under General Babington.

For this gallant action, Batchelor earned his D.C.M. and was again 'mentioned'.

Later that year, the situation changed considerably, with the arrival of the Battalion at Heilbron on 20 June 1901, where remaining in the vicinity, it manned the series of blockhouses which ran from Heilbron to Frankfort and the railway line running from Heilbron to Wolvehoek - a tedious and utterly monotonous time was had by all until the end of hostilities.

On 23 January 1902, he left South Africa and arrived at Southampton on 11 February to assist in the training of new recruits and militia men who were being posted to the newly created 3rd and 4th Battalions.

On 17 December 1902, he returned to South Africa, where he arrived on 7 January 1903.

Whilst in Bloemfontein, in a hand written letter to his brother William, he writes:

'Not had photograph taken yet, Bloemfontein.

But will not omit you, when I do. 16th June 1903

Dear Bill,

What you say I have forgot all about you, oh dear no, far from it. I should have wrote before, but since I have been out here this last time, I have had pretty well to do and as a rule it is all writing and head work, in which sorry to say, we are not very good friends. As often is the time that I have work to do which is almost beyond my ability. As you know we never had a lot of school, sorry to say, and it is now I wish I had more, but it is what we might say too late. Well it is nearly often the case we never see these wants of ours until it is too late.

I started to go to school some few weeks back, to try and work myself up for a higher certificate of Education, but at the present, have not made much progress as I don't seem to have too much spare time to allow me to devote in school work, although I have learned a lot what I never knew before. Of course we have nearly always something new to hand that has to be learned, to enable us to carry out our duties in times of peace, also in time of war. Of course the Boer War enlightened our smart War Office and Army a good deal and even since it started, also since it ended it has been a continual lot of changes in different things in connection with our Army of Today. I cannot say we are getting any smarter by it, well I might almost be right by saying we are worse. Of course I am all right, but it is the way others act that makes me so bitter against it. For a start, a steady man in the Army is thought very little of and I am sure if they would only encourage more privileges to the steady men, there would be afar better class of men in the Army. But still Bill I don't need their ways of working, as I do as I like and not as they would like me to be. I also can do my work very well, not that I care to flatter myself - oh no, I could never do that.

Well Bill, how is you and your wife, also Mother, Father, Brothers, Sisters and your little family. I sincerely hope you are well and I pray to God that he will always keep you so. Kindly remember me to all, not forgetting your Charley, oh to be at Tea once more. I wonder how long it will be before I am able to give you a look up again. Our Great Redeemer above knows, but I nor you don't, but I hope he will spare us all so that our parting may not be severed forever. I expect I shall be abroad another 4 years, that is if all goes well, in which I hope will not only for me but for everybody and when I come home again, I think I shall finish what I shall have to do and that is a long time to look at. But still it is not so long, well not so long as I have already done, but vet)/ near it, as I scarcely have eleven in yet. So if I finish for my full pension I have a little over ten to do - oh roll on ten years. But I am still growing older - it would be all right if we still remained young and strong.

There is not a lot of alteration in this country yet and I expect it will be years before the difference will be noticed Oh hasn't the Boers finished quiet - not such a thing as a small quarrel anywhere. I guess they had enough in the last fight for home and dear country, well I might say we all had. Of course many made fortunes - well, more made than lost. Except some of the most unfortunates lost some of their most dear to them.

I don't go out much for as a rule I only go to the Cathedral on a Sunday evening and that is not every Sunday, as I have not always the time to spare, as it is a long walk from our camp to the town. Well I may be right in saying four or five miles and then there is coming back, but I don't go to the town service, I go to the one in camp. Of course we are marched to church every Sunday, so you see they have a little christian for us, but I would go every day if I could as I don't think we can ever know too much of our dear Lord. I wish I knew more and I am sure our earth of wickedness would be a lot more happier; also a lot more happiness in some of the dear little English homes they would only spare a little more time in prayer. Of course, I am still very steady and pray I may always remain so, as I assure you it is much better than leading a life, as some of our predecessors have set before us.

I hope you have got plenty of work, also your Father and Brothers. Of course, I have always got something that wants doing, but I do a bit and leave a bit, so that all comes out well in the end. I don't mind of course - I get well paid for it so I cannot grumble. I expect you are still at the old wire bench. I wonder fI only had stopped at the Battery, I often think what I should have developed into perhaps a Crabtree or "Gaffer Jack", but I should hope not, well it is hard to say. How is your cousin Hollis faring on, is he still in the Army, but I think he must have left, or he would have been out here when I came back. My stay was not long around merry little England was it, but I could not settle down at all. Of course, no one in this world is no fonder than home and parents than I am, but what good would .1 be to them or myself if I was doing nothing or even working for £1 a week and nothing found And then there is short work and holidays to come off that. There is one good thing attached to the Army and that is you get paid work or play, also well clothed and it is rather a well paying profession after all. And a young man joining the Army with a good education, there is more prospects for a good living than there is outside, especially a man with a quiet and temperate habits. Of course it is like civil life, if you have a LI and spend a £1, you cannot expect to have that £1.

Well Bill, rubbish this time is plentiful, so I must think of coming to a conclusion. Pleased to say I am all right and pray we will for ever and aye remain so. We are just getting our winter, oh how strange our world is controlled - you are getting your spring. Is there many leaving the old Selly Oak to come out here? Well Bill, I must conclude for now, hoping to hear from you at your earliest conscience. Hoping you will remember me to all, Hinton, Budd, Harbourn, etc, etc, leaving me as when at school.

Good night all. God bless and keep us all under his care, in life till we meet again.

True for ever. Jim.

3339 C.Sjt. J. Batchelor, 2 Worcestershire Regt., Bloemfontein.'

Returning from South Africa, Batchelor became qualified as an instructor of Musketry on 26 September1904 and at the Royal Small Arms, Sparkbrook, Birmingham on 16 March 1905, was certified in the correct methods of keeping:

Magazine Lee-Metford, Mk. 1,11 and III
Lee-Enfield, Mk. I and II, and Martini-Enfield Carbine.

Also whilst home he obviously found time for courting and married his wife, Minnie on 26 December 1904 in Handsworth, Birmingham.

Remaining with the Battalion until 1908, Batchelor was promoted to Sergeant Major and transferred to the Stourport Company of the 7th (Territorial) Battalion as Sergeant-Instructor.

Through his leadership, within two years the company had become the strongest in the Battalion; his skills being recognised, he was then transferred to the Headquarters of the Battalion based at The Shrubbery, Kidderminster. Here Batchelor remained until retiring at the age of 39 years, on 12 September, 1913, having served 21 years with the colours, 8 years and 44 days having been spent overseas.

At the time of his retirement, members of the Headquarter Companies of the 7th Battalion were entertained to dinner at the Corn Exchange, Worcester, presided over by Captain Homfray. During the prize giving, Captain Dore presented a black marble cased dining room clock to Sergeant Major Batchelor to commemorate his retirement and in a speech outlining his career and medals earned, including the Distinguished Conduct Medal, stated,

'...that he displayed great courage and skill which should have entitled him to the V.C..'

Whereupon, support for the statement was displayed by shouts of "Hear, Hear !"

Settling down to what he thought was retirement, he was met, within a year, for a call to arms at the outbreak of the Great War - his skills and abilities were to be put to good use and were recognised in his being commissioned Lieutenant and Quartermaster on 21 July 1915 and posted in that capacity to the newly formed 14th (Severn Valley Pioneers) Battalion of the Worcestershire Regiment on it's formation on 10 September 1915.

The Severn Valley Pioneers were raised by Colonel Sir Henry Webb, M.P., at his own expense and eventually taken over as a service battalion by the War Office on 20 March 1916. On 20 June 1916, the 14th Battalion moved from Codford to Southampton by train and embarked their ship at 1.30 pm, sailed at 6.30 pm and arrived at Le Havre on the morning of 21 June.

After 24 hrs. rest the Battalion entrained for the front and came under the 63rd (Royal Naval) Division. They spent the next three months reinforcing the defences in the area of Bois de la Haie, facing Vimy Ridge. Here, they were under constant shelling, but luckily, casualties between 1 July and 17 September were 4 killed and 8 wounded. After this date, the Battalion moved out of the line and took up training to the beginning of October.

On October 4, the Battalion moved towards the Somme front and there, laboured on defence works until the 12 November, whereupon it was to take part in the final battle for the Somme - the Battle of the Ancre on the following day. In this engagement, 2 officers and 6 men were killed and 48 men wounded with 3 missing.

The Battalion continued to remain in this area, often working under heavy shell fire and on 3 February 1917, the Naval Brigade attacked trenches north of the Awe and were engaged in continuous fighting for 48 hrs. And again on 17 February, when they erected important wire entanglements in front of the captured German trenches. Work continued to further consolidate their new position over the next month, under continuous shell fire, after which the Battalion moved from the front line in the first week of March, where further training could take place.

April 1917 saw the Battalion move to the Arras battlefield area and they participated in the attacks of the 23 April and the capture and defence of Gavrelle.

From May to September 1917, the Battalion sent out working parties to repair roads and defences, but on 24 September, orders were received to move northwards to the Ypres area and it took part in the battle of Poelcappelle, working under testing conditions and often under heavy shelling.

During October, November and into early December, the 14th Battalion worked incessantly on strengthening the trench systems and gun pits during the attacks to gain the Passchendaele Ridge. It was under continuous shell fire and enemy aircraft bombed the railway lines, supply dumps and camps by night. Even after the final assault on the ridge on 6 November, the Battalion was employed in small groups about the battlefield, consolidating the new positions.

It was on 7 November 1917 that Batchelor received a Mention in Despatches by Field Marshall Sir Douglas Haig, which appeared in the London Gazette of 18 December 1917.

In December, the Battalion moved south from the Ypres area and by the 17th, were in reserve positions in the area of Villers Plouich on the Cambrai front. They remained in the line until the 23 January, where they had laboured under freezing conditions to restore and maintain the defences following an intense bombardment and attack at the end of December.

On 23 January 1918, the C.O. of the Battalion, Lt. Col. Caldier Ladd, sent a personal message to Batchelor, praising his efforts and those of his men:

Quartermaster

I feel I should like to express my appreciation of the efficient way in which you and your staff and the Quartermaster Sergeants dealt with the rations on the first occasion when they had to be delivered to us under Front Line conditions.
Will you please let the other ranks under you know.

A. Caldier Ladd
Commanding 14th Bn., Worcestershire Regt. (Pioneers)

After a period of rest and training, the Battalion returned to the front lines again - to the same positions - where it remained until March, being subjected to several horrifying attacks when the enemy bombed with mustard gas, which caused many casualties, (between 12 and 20 March, 9 officers and 196 men had to be evacuated).

On 21 March, 1918, the German Spring Offensive was launched and the Battalion were not alone in coming under a heavy barrage of high explosive and mustard gas shells. Over the next two days, the Battalion retired to pre-determined lines of defence, which was their only hope of survival if they were not to be completely surrounded as both the lines to their left and right had been taken.

Having steadily retreated since the 21 March, under constant shell fire, by 25 March the Battalion occupied an area of the old Somme battlefield between the villages of Martinpuich and Courcelette - here they hastily dug in. As British troops retreated through their lines and formed up behind them, the 14th Battalion opened up rapid fire with rifle and Lewis gun at the great masses of pursuing enemy. Their advance was held up and for two hours, the Battalion held them in check, but suffered heavy casualties, including Lt. Col. Caldier Ladd, who died of his wounds.

During the day of the 25, the Battalion continued to delay the enemy's advance with a gallant fighting retreat, passing through Thiepval Wood and across the River Ancre during darkness.

During March 1918, the 14th Battalion suffered total casualties of 25 officers and 354 other ranks.

Throughout the summer months, the Battalion were held in reserve position, strengthening the defences should another great attack take place. During this time, shelling was generally light with few casualties, but two occasions of intense shelling occurred, where particular acts of gallantry were performed by both officers and men, earning the individuals Military Crosses and Distinguished Conduct Medals.

On 21 August, 1918, the 14th Battalion were involved in the push forward across the Ancre and had assembled at "Pigeon Wood", near Essarts, just north of Gommecourt. Although they were not part of the attacking Battalions, their role was to follow up the attacking troops and make the roads passable for the forward movement of artillery. Over the following days, this is precisely what they did, as the need for the services of the Pioneers of the 63rd Division were great.

The enemy having been pushed back under the unrelenting efforts of the Allied advance, they had withdrawn to a line of strong defensive positions across the Canal du Nord and it was here, on 27 September, that the Battalion laboured all through the previous night and during the early hours before the attack, in an effort to prepare the ground for the attacking Battalions.

At 5 am, the attack took place under intense shell fire and a hail of bullets and the Pioneers moved forward to the banks of the Canal to assemble crossings to allow the limbers and artillery pieces to keep up with the advancing troops and provide the much needed supportive barrage. As the battle progressed to Cambrai, the Battalion moved across the battle ground, labouring under intense shell fire and during the next five days, casualties amounted to 4 killed and 33 wounded.

The Battalion then rested in the reserve positions, but were again thrown forward in the final assault on Cambrai between the 7 and 9 October, where they laboured on road repair work just behind the line of attacking troops. It remained in the area until 1st November, where it then moved further east to Henin-Lietard, between Douai and Lens. However, no great advance was being made around this section of the line, but further south at Valenciennes, the advance was still very much in evidence and fresh troops were needed. On 6 November, the Battalion was placed under the orders of the Royal Engineers and the pioneers companies were distributed along the roads behind the advancing front, making the way clear for the movement of guns to the front line. For the next few days they laboured incessantly in the bitter cold and drizzling rain and by the 11 November were located at Harmignies.

At 0830 on the 11 November, a communiqué was issued to all troops, which read as follows:

"Hostilities will cease at 11.00 hours Nov. 11th. All troops will stand fast on line reached at that hour which will be reported to D.H.Q. All defensive precautions will be maintained and an outpost line established. There will be no parleying with the enemy who if he attempts to come over will be sent back by an officer. Addressed to all concerned.

Major General, Commanding, 63rd (R.N.) Division'

The close of hostilities had little effect on the work of The Pioneers. The 14th Battalion continued to labour around the area of Mons - road construction, demolition and bridge building, but their efforts provided great support to the returning inhabitants.

On 27 November 1918, Batchelor was granted special leave to England and rejoined the Battalion again on 16 December. On 5 December, the Battalion was visited by King George V, who praised their labours. Christmas Day, 1918 commenced with a Divine Service under the Commanding Officer, Major H.C. Maben, D.S.O., MC., at 0930hrs, with a non-conformists service at 1015hrs. Boxing Day saw a Battalion Sports Day and Concert Evening - all very different from the previous two years activities during which the Battalion were on active service.

On 20 March 1919, Batchelor was once more allowed leave to England and returned on 12 April. During the Spring of 1919, the unit were gradually reduced in strength, its' members being transferred to other Battalions within the Regiment or sent home for demobilisation. By April, preparations were being made for the disbandment of the Battalion and finally on 20 June, the small cadre of officers and men left Boulogne for Dover.

On 23 June 1919, the remains of the 14th Battalion marched through the City of Worcester and were met by a welcome so richly deserved. They hung up their colours in the Cathedral after three years on active service and then marched to Norton Barracks, where officers and men were demobilised.

On 23 August, a Victory Parade took place in Worcester, consisting of upwards of 2500 officers and men of the Worcestershire Regiment. Captain Batchelor was present on this march and was one of three officers representing the Service Battalions of the Regiment.

Batchelor retired from the Army and settled down into civilian life in Selly Oak, Birmingham. What employment he then undertook is unknown, but he was a regular attendee of the 14th Battalion Annual Reunion Dinners and maintained his connections with the Regiment to the last. At every reunion, he would close the ceremony with his rendition of "Clementine", which he sang in the battlefields of France and Flanders during those dark days of the war, cheering many by his singing of this song. On 7 November 1931, he was Chairman of the 14th Battalion Reunion Dinner.

In 1950, Batchelor was rewarded for his distinguished service furthermore with the award of the MSM as per Army Order 98, at the age of 75 years. He died on 21 March 1953 aged 78 years and was cremated at Lodge Hill Crematorium, Birmingham - a sad loss to the Regiment and all who knew him.



Sold together with the following original archive comprising:

(i)

Monthly Settlements and Savings Bank Account.

(ii)
Account Book or Pocket Ledger.

(iii)
Second Class Certificate of Education.

(iv)
Swimming certificate for 200 yards.

(v)
Certificate Showing Qualifications in Military Subjects for the Rank of Sergeant.

(vi)
Description Card for Active Service.

(vii)
Booklet for the Worcestershire Regiment for 1901.

(viii)
Letter to "Bill" dated 16 June 1903 sent from Bloemfontein.

(ix)
Army Inspection Department certificate for instruction in the lee Metford Rifle and Martini-Enfield Carbine.

(x)
Envelope addressed to him at 4 Shrubbery Cottages, Kidderminster dated 24 July 1913.

(xi)
A photograph of him in uniform with his brother.

(xii)
Newspapers articles, original and copied.

(xiii)
Parchment Certificate dated 4 September 1913.

(xiv)
Pressed card identity tag.

(xv)
Warrant for promotion to Quartermaster dated 17 July 1915.

(xvi)
Mentioned in Despatches certificate dated 7 November 1917.

(xvii)
Menu for a reunion dinner in London on 7 November 1931 for the 14th Worcestershire Regiment.

(xviii)
Memorial note relating to his death on 21 March 1953 and correspondence to his daughter, birth certificate for his son dated 12 August 1894.

Picture courtesy of Spink

MC GV (Capt. J. Hudson 1st. Batt. Conn. Rangers);
DCM VR with dated Second Award Bar '10-11th August 1915' (598 Clr: Serjt: J. Hudson. Irish Gds:);
East and West Africa 1887 (3) 1897-98, 1898, 1900 (Serjt: J. Hudson. Irish Gds:);
QSA (3) Cape Colony, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 (598 Clr:-Serjt: J. Hudson. Irish Guards);
AGS 1902 (1) N. Nigeria (4558 Clr: Serjt: J. Hudson. 2nd N. Nigeria Regt);
1914-15 Star (3010 S. Mjr J. Hudson. Conn. Rang.);
British War and Victory Medals with MID (Major J. Hudson);
Army LS&GC Ed VII (4558 Q.M:Sjt: J. Hudson. Conn. Rngrs.);
Army MSM GVI (4558 W.O.CL.2. J. Hudson. D.C.M. Conn. Rang)

Approximately 53 dated Bars to the DCM were awarded during the Great War, this being up until 15 Spetember 1916, when an order for 500 Bars was placed on 4 December 1916, these latterly being the new laurelled version.

MC London Gazette 7 February 1918.

DCM London Gazette 31 October 1902.

Second Award Bar to DCM London Gazette 11 March 1916: 'For conspicuous gallantry at Sari Bair Gallipoli Peninsula, on 10th and 11th August 1915, when he no less than three times volunteered for and carried through minor operations although exposed to a severe cross fire.'

MID London Gazette 28 January 1916.

John Hudson was born on 20 February 1875 at Killygarvan, Rathmullan, County Donegal, Ireland. He originally attested into the Connaught Rangers on 20 June 1893 at Athlone. A keen soldier, he was quickly promoted to Lance-Corporal on 30 January 1894, Corporal, 22 November 1895 and to Lance-Sergeant on 15 September 1897. He was seconded for service with the 2nd Battalion, West Africa Regiment on 11 February 1898 and was further promoted to Sergeant on 1 September 1898, remaining in West Africa until January 1901. Whilst there he served variously in Eastern Borgu under Colonel Wilcock (August 1898), on Bassa Expedition under Major Stanley, Royal Niger Company (March 1899), the Gurara Expedition under Captain Monk Mason, the Koduna Expedition under Colonel Morland, the Kadura & Kuntagora Expedition under Colonel Lowry Cole, the Kegi Expedition under Colonel Morland and the Wushishi Expedition under Major O'Neil.

He recalls:

'I was given Special Mention in Dispatches by Colonel Morland whilst serving with the Kegi Expedition May 1901. The War Office have persistently refused to recognise this Special Mention, although I had produced the following documents in support of it:-

1) An extract from Records of the 2nd Battn West African Frontier Force signed by the Regtl Adjutant, showing and recording that I had been Specially Mentioned, and quoting the Frontier Force Order in which my name appeared signed by the Commandant of the Force Colonel Keraball.

2) A letter from Colonel Lowry Cole to the Officer Commanding the Irish Guards, when I made application to transfer to Irish Guards on their formation, amongst other recommendations he stated "...this Non Commissioned Officer has already distinguished himself in action in the Colony". What further concrete proof was necessary yet War Office have always rejected the claim I have reams of correspondence on this matter and intend keeping it up so long as I live. We were on active service all the time we served in the Colony and from January 1900 to October 1900 I was on one expedition after another. During this period I had only 5 days in Headquarters from 1st to 5th July.'

With the formation of the Irish Guards on 1 April 1900, Hudson was transferred to the newly-formed Regiment on 20 December 1900. He saw service in South Africa with the Irish Guards - their first outing on campaign - from 26 November 1901 and was promoted Colour-Sergeant on 4 March 1902. He had the honour to lead them in thier 'baptism of fire' with the Section of the Guards Mounted Infantry:

'I got the Irish Guards into extended order and took up positions under whatever cover we could find. We were reinforced by the Coldstream, and Scots Guards Sections but could not force our way. The Boers were now closing in on the flanks and fighting became general. This continued until about 3pm when Colonel Crabbe ordered the Guards M.I. to charge the kopjes. We were the only troops who had steel, our bayonets. Our horses were sent up and we formed up, fixed bayonets, and rode out in single file, after the Artillery had sent several shells to the Boer positions. Lieut Brice in front, I after him, and the Irish, Coldstream & Scots Sections all following in single file riding parallel to the kopje and then Lieut Brice gave the signal "left turn" and all the M.I. went up the side of the kopje as far as the horses could take us, dismounted and charged to the top of the hill. The Boers did not wait for us, they had retired and were riding away as hard as their horses could take them. The Boers made very bad shooting, I had only one horse (O'Haras) wounded and no men.

Although the firing was heavy we held the position until the whole Column got through. I should have mentioned that a number of Brabants Horse joined in the Charge, although not detailed to so. The Grenadier Section missed the charge being engaged on the flank. The Boers kept up a continuous sniping fire. Twomey volunteered to collect our water bottles and go to the rear of the Column to fill them. On his return he was made a permanent target by the Boers. He sat on a rock and had a drink, the bullets spattering around him, he then distributed the bottles to their owners who were parched with thirst...

The following day was devoted to re-fitting and preparing for an attack on the Boers who had several Commandos in the vicinity. We took up defensive positions. On my section of the hills which we occupied, some signallers with a heliograph were with us. Towards evening the helio got in touch with a helio of Lunis Column. This was reported to Headquarters and messages passed between Colonel Luni and Captain Crabbe. Next day the fighting continued and on 5th February the Column moved out at 6am to attack the Boers who had the previous night attacked the Convoy, killed over 40 men and captured and burned that part which they did not require. The Guards Mounted Infantry were detailed as the Rear Guard. All the other troops, Lancers, Imperial Yeomanry, Brabants Horses and the guns passed us, we following as the Rear Guard. The Boers were shortly contacted. The Guns opened out and the Cavalry moved into section. The Boers were in considerable force much more than was expected. The Guards M.I. took up position on two kopjes and watched the fighting in the distance. After several hours, we saw the guns retiring which was a bad sign, then the Cavalry retired through our lines, and gradually the other mounted troops, so we were converted from a Rear Guard advancing, to a Rear Guard retiring. The Grenadiers and Irish were on one Kopje the Coldstreams and Scots on another one some distance away. Lieut Seymour and Lieut Brice were the officers in command of the Grenadiers and Irish Sections. We kept the Boers off for some time, and our men did some good shooting. The Boers outnumbered us by at least 10 to 1, and kept galloping towards our kopje. We were ordered to retire, by then the Boers were spread out between the Kopjes and making towards us. The Sergt Major said take any horse. I countered this and said Irish Guards "take your own horses" which they did.

The Irish were the last to leave and brought up the rear in Extended Order. The next Kopjes were some distance away, where we would again take up position. By now the Boers were closing in on both flanks. I shouted to the men to "Fix Bayonets". At the same time fixing my own, some of the men succeeded in drawing their bayonets but could not fix them on horseback at the canter. The Irish and Grenadiers turned left and rode straight amongst the Boers, who gave us the surprise of our lives, they were almost all armed with Mauser Pistols and started shooting and our men falling. I made for apparently a Commander who opened fire as we rode towards one another, I missed him, and he missed me. Although he put a bullet through my jacket and one in my great coat on my saddle. I turned my horse, but we were surrounded on every side and had not a ghost of a chance. This apparently settled the Boers for they were then halted and their Commandants issued fresh orders. We were now up to the Kopjes which we would have occupied. Grenadier Guards had four killed, one wounded and three prisoners. All those killed and wounded were shot by Mauser Pistols. When the Boers moved away I took the men and collected the dead. Many Boers kept coming to us. I enquired from an apparent officer, whether they had any shovels with which to make a grave, but they had none. So with our Bayonets we dug a grave for the dead and laid them side by side where they fought, and gave up their lives in defence of their country, at Outspanfontein on 5th February 1902, the first Irish Guards to fall in action. The grave was filled in and I said "Prayers for the Dead". "May they all Rest in Peace".

Byrne was shot through the liver, I bandaged the wound and made him as comfortable as it was possible, for the heat was intense.

He closes the campaign:

'I must pay a tribute to the men of the Irish Guards Section. Our strength was 37. They were almost all young Irishmen in their early twenties, some in fact had not reached 20 years of age. Keen, smart, intelligent, trustworthy, ambitious, they wanted to outshine everyone else, and as brave a lot of men as one would wish to serve with. There was a real brotherly feeling amongst them. They were first in everything appertaining to Mounted Duties. Scouting, every one a practised scout. Reliable in every way, and proud of the fact that they were the first Irish Guards on active service, this they were very proud of. All splendid men...

He would become the first Irish Guardsman to win a gallantry award with his award of the D.C.M.:

'On promotion to Cr Sergt I had been posted to No 8 Company commanded by Captain The Earl of Kerry D.S.O.

I went on leave as quickly as possible and joined my wife in Athlone, and two children, a girl having been born in March whilst I was serving in South Africa. I had now a family of two, a boy and a girl and I was very pleased to be re-united with them once again, so also was my wife who had a very anxious time during my absence.

Whilst on leave I received instructions to proceed to the Hythe School of Musketry and join the Musketry Course of South African Sergeants and Colour Sergeants then being formed specially for those who had served during the war.

On the day I received instructions to proceed to the School of Musketry Hythe, my name appeared in the London Gazette. Awarded the "Distinguished Conduct Medal". This was indeed a very pleasant surprise. None of the Officers had told me that I had been recommended. The news appeared in all the Irish papers as a result I had many congratulations. My wife and parents were delighted, my father particularly, he having served 30 years in the Royal Irish Constabulary, a Semi Military Body, and his brother served in the Crimea, Indian Mutiny and Maori Campaigns. My wife's relatives, more particularly her father, were indeed very pleased...

Whilst on leave I received a very good silver watch from Captain Lord Herbert Scott inscribed "Color Sergeant Hudson from Captain Lord Herb Scott, Irish Guard M.I. South Africa 1901-02". The watch has been in use all these years and is still going well. About the same time I had a silver mounted multiple knife and lanyard from Captain Trotter who commanded the 1st Company Guards M.I. suitably inscribed. This knife I kept and gave it to one of my sons who was going farming to Australia in 1925, it would be most useful to him.'

Hudson re-engaged at Aldershot on 26 August 1904 to complete 21 years service and became Drill Sergeant on 22 December 1904. He was appointed as a Colour Sergeant to the Connaught Rangers on 11 November 1906 and promoted to Quartermaster Sergeant on 18 May 1907. Hudson was discharged to Pension on 31 July 1912 at Boyle, Co. Roscommon.

With the outbreak of the Great War, Hudson saw news:

'It came to my knowledge that The Earl of Kerry, my old Company Officer in the Irish Guards, had been promoted and given command of the 2nd Bn Irish Guards then in course of formation. I sat down and wrote to him offering my services with his new Battalion. Two days later I got a telegram from the Earl of Kerry to report at once to Regimental Headquarters, Buckingham Gate, London. I lost no time in complying.

Arrived at Regimental Headquarters two days later and reported. Attestation papers were immediately made out and I was sent to Recruiting Head Quarters where hundreds were already assembled awaiting Medical Examination and attesting.'

He re-enlisted (No. 3010) as a Private on 8 September 1914 and was promoted to Company Quartermaster-Sergeant on the same day. He continues:

'Passed the Medical Exam. I was attested and returned to the Regimental Orderly Room at Buckingham Gate. On arrival there was a telegram for me. It was from Lord Herbert Scott my Section Commander in the 1st Coy Guards Mounted Infantry South Africa inviting me to join his Battalion as a Color Sergeant. He was a Lieut Colonel and had been given command of a London Territorial Battalion. I respectfully declined informing him I was joining the 2nd Bn. Irish Guards next day at Warley. I joined the 2nd Bn Irish Guards at Warley on 7th September 1914. I saw The Earl of Kerry, who commanded the Bn on my arrival. He gave me a very hearty greeting and informed me I would be appointed Drill Sergeant. The Battalion was over strength and consisted of the overflow from the 1st Bn when they went to France a month before. In addition men from the Reserve were joining daily. The Adjutant was a Captain of the Scots Guards. The Regimental Sergt Major was a Pensioner Drill Sergeant of the Grenadier Guards whose job in retirement was a Marshal Man at Buckingham Palace. The Senior Drill Sergeant was also a Grenadier, the Junior Drill Sergt Tinakler, Irish Guards from pension was the Regtl Qr Mr Sergt. I knew quite a lot of the man and they soon spotted "The Boy in Blue".

A heavy draft was prepared in quick time September 1914, mostly composed of reservists. They looked a very useful lot of men. They paraded in the afternoon in full war kit to proceed to the Railway Station. A number of them had returned from Canada amongst them Guardsman O'Leary who afterwards was awarded the Victoria Cross, and granted a Commission. The excitement was intense. Almost every soldier in Barracks was anxious to go out to the front. All the Regimental Police were called on duty and at the Railway Station were kept busy. When all were aboard a search was made of each compartment to eject men who were not for overseas and send them back to barracks. We Drill Sergeants were superintending. The Commanding Officer, Adjutant and almost all the officers were there to give officers and men an Irish send off, which they did, the men of the draft responding heartily, nothing but ringing cheers. When the roll in barracks was called at tattoo, it was discovered there were 12 absentees. They had gone with the draft in spite of all the precautions. They remained as absentees until it was confirmed by the 1st Bn that they had arrived with the reinforcements and were absorbed on the strength of the Battalion. A dozen got away, but several dozen were prevented from going...

An order was now published to the effect that Pensioners re-joining for the duration of the war would be paid at the rate of the rank held by them when discharged to pension. My rank on discharge was Regtl Quartermaster Sergeant but my present rank carried a Colour Sergeant Pay and allowances only so I made application for payment in the rank I held when discharged to pension. The Commanding Officer forwarded the application to General Headquarters, London. The General Officer Commanding refused to grant the increase. I then told the Commanding Officer that I wished to transfer to a Kitchener Regiment where I would receive correct payment. My application for transfer was submitted. About this time a number of re-enlisted pensioner Warrant and Non Commissioned Officers were receiving their commissions.

It was my ambition to become an Officer and I could see this was the only way open to me to reach my objective. Yet after I had received my commission 12 months later the Earl of Kerry wrote congratulating me and saying that had I remained with his Battn I would have been granted a commission.

At Orderly Room on 17th October 1914 I was informed my transfer was granted. I was to report to the 5th Bn. Connaught Rangers at Royal Barracks, Dublin as Regimental Sergt Major.

The Commanding Officer was sorry I was leaving so also were the young officers. The Warrant Officers and Staff Sergts made me a presentation of a gold wristlet watch, and the Sergeants presented me with a Silver Mounted Drill Sergeant's cane suitable inscribed. I have this cane yet and it helps me along sometimes when I require it.

I had a nice send off from all the members of the Sergeants' Mess. Really I was sorry leaving but I wanted to get on now that opportunity offered.'

He served overseas as part of the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force from 21 July 1915 and earned a rare dated Second Award Bar to the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his action at the Sari Bair Peninsula in Gallipoli for his work on 10-11 August 1915. He recalls his time on Gallipoli:

'Anzac Cove was reached at 10pm and the transport anchored. Rifle fire all around was incessant the hills seemed to be alive with flashes and bombing, some of the bullets reached the vessel. At 3am 6th August the work of disembarking begun before daylight. Men reached the pier in lighters, disembarked their men and returned. Before the Battalion had reached Shrapnel Gully the Turks had discovered the transports and opened up with Shrapnel which they kept up incessantly. The Battalion took over partly made trenches that had been left by the Australians, they did not afford much cover. Machine gun and rifle fire by the Turks and Australians was incessant.

Shrapnel continued all day. One of the Welsh Regt was struck running across the gully. He fell, I with another Ranger ran out and carried him to the first aid medical post where Doctor O'Sullivan was already very busy. The wounded man, a lad of about 19 years, was struck by a piece of shell which almost severed his hight hand above the wrist. Whilst the Doctor was amputating his hand his only complaint was "I would not care if I had a shot at them, but I had not got one yet". The Battn had one killed and several wounded on this day. Regtl. Qr Mr Sergt Galbraith was one of the wounded.

During the afternoon whilst fighting was going on, Shrapnel and bullets which sent over the Australian lines came thick and heavy through the "Gully". The dugouts were useless and the men stuck it fine for their baptism of fire. At night the fire intensified and unending. Bullybeef and biscuits with a drop of water the only food available and it was a Godsend. Oh! but the flies. Myriads of them and what whoppers. You had to keep one hand moving brushing them away whilst you put a bit in your mouth with the other one, ten to one, you had half a dozen flies on the morsel.

The Battalion was attached to the Australian Division and was kept constantly on the move mostly night marches. The Royal Irish Rifles and Leinster Regt were also with the Division.

Shell and rifle fire was continuous. Snipers were very lively and were undoubtedly selected for their marksmanship. The Turks held all the commanding positions and had therefore selection of ground for snipers. The casualties from the firing line were heavy a continuous stream of dead and wounded. Many shells fell amongst our men but few casualties. Orders were issued to prepare to reinforce the front line. "C" Company had reinforced the Australians during the fighting Lieut Johnson had been brought to notice for bandaging two wounded men under fire and for having distinguished himself with great gallantry in holding an advanced trench. Turkish bombs thrown over, he returned to them before they exploded. Lieut Johnson, I must say, played a very distinguished part in all the fighting and kept this up daily until he was wounded taking the Wells on 21st August when he disposed of 8 turks on his own with bayonet and revolver. He deserved more than the Military Cross which he was awarded.

This brings us up to the 10th August at 7am the Battn was ordered to prepare to move. We did carrying sandbags. Entering a sap on the way to front line the stream of wounded coming down was so great that progress was slow. The day was very hot and water was as usual very scarce. The Turks had pushed in part of the line. Fighting continued all day, in addition machine gun snipers were very active and in well concealed positions and inflicting heavy casualties. The men behaved magnificently under very trying circumstances. Several Officers and men were wounded. Brigadier Gen. Cooper was severely wounded. One of the snipers, brought in as a prisoner, by Sergeant Nealan, had the General's pocket book, watch, badges of rank, correspondence, revolver in his possession. The Royal Irish Rifles had a very bad cutting up endeavouring to take the Farm. Their dead lay out between the lines for days. The Battn dug in on a hill each side the dry water course and secured the position. This enabled the wounded to be removed, the stretcher bearers working day and night.

During the Turkish attack on the Australian and New Zealand trenches. Major Wallingford worked several machine guns in succession inflicting very heavy casualties on the enemy. Whilst firing one gun, the gunners of the other guns would have them ready again and so in this way stopped the Turkish Attack. Major Wallingford was Sergeant Major of the School of Musketry, Hythe, and the best shot in the British Army for years. When he retired on pension, he emigrated to Australia and joined the Australian forces at the outbreak of war, coming with them, and taking part in the Anzac Landing. The Leinsters assisted in repelling this attack.

Lieut O'Sullivan R.A.M.C did a fine job of work, attending to the wounded day and night until all were cleared. Likewise the Stretcher Bearers worked the same, never appearing to tire. I gave the Doctor assistance on a couple occasions. He had no trained R.A.M.C Orderlies to help with the bandaging of the wounded. In addition to our own wounded casualties from many Battalions of the 13th Division kept arriving.

Patrolling between the lines with 6 men, we came across a wounded Rifleman of the Royal Irish Rifles. His thigh bone was broken by a bullet two days before. His method of moving was by pushing backwards with both hands. I had an improvised stretched with rifles, bayonets, and jackets with sleeves turned inside out, by this means we brought him back. He told us many Turks had passed him, they refused him water, or to assist him in any way.

From now on fighting was continuous, no matter where you were you were not free from machine gun and rifle snipers and casualties were increasing. The enemy appeared to hold every spot with a commanding position and kept increasing our casualties.

The Battn. was taken out of the line and brought back to an Olive Grove for a rest. There was a large well in the grove but it was exposed to Shrapnel and Machine Gun Fire. I was determined by hook or by crook to reach that water. I secured as many shovels as possible and started digging a trench towards the well. Three feet wide and seven feet deep. I had relays of men working for nearly two days under heavy fire of all sorts. They sure worked with a will for a glorious drink of water. When we reached the well the water was lower than our level, so I had steps dug down, and I had the first drink of beautiful cool spring water. It was a very large well. Word was passed to the Battn to send along all the Camp Kettles and anything that would hold water. At this time there was an order that anyone using water for washing purposes would be punished. I might mention here everyman had a whisker, and had not washed for a week, there was no means of doing so. All resembled n

---

s. Had any of our relatives seen us as we were they would not recognise us. There was now a bountiful supply of water, so I indulged in a wash under some olive trees, I wasn't just finishing off and pouring water over my head when the branches of the tree overhanging were ripped by machine gun fire. I at once made a dash for the dugout. Lieut Blake who was also indulging in a wash a little distance from me shouted "where are you going Sergeant Major?" Immediately the tree under which he was sheltering had a similar burst of fire, and he too made for his dugout.

And so it was all day long, no respite. Father O'Connor had not joined the Battn to date. Father Leighton of the 13th Division said Mass and gave communion to the men. On completion of the Mass and as the men were moving away, a sniper fired and shot one of the men through the head, he had scarcely shown himself.

Lieut Johnson who controlled our scouts and snipers, had his men alerted and noted the points from which the Turk snipers operated. They usually relaxed from 2pm to about 4pm daily, evidently having a sleep. Lieut Johnson and his men moved out then, creeping through the scrub and back in quest of the snipers. The only evidence of a successful hunt would be a Turkish rifle brought back by the scouts.

When moving to the Aghyl Dere position the Battalion arrived at a spot where a Turk Machine gunner was operating. A portion of the trench or ground covering had been blown in and several casualties had already occurred. The C.O halted the Battalion. I suggested that the men convenient fill their sandbags and pass them along. I crept out and built up the opening with sandbags and made all safe for the Battn to pass along without any casualties. The Battalions of the 13th Division got very badly cut up. Their casualties were enormous. The Warwicks Regt had very few left. The same applied to many other Regiments. An unending stream of wounded.

Those killed could not be buried, consequently their bodies remained in the open and due to the excessive heat, decomposition set in and the wind blowing from that direction made the atmosphere awful.

The Battalion was again in the line. They were now working on a sap which they completed very satisfactorily. I often during the course of the night went out between the lines. One night on one of these missions I heard voices approaching. I recognised them as English. When close to me I ordered "Halt who are you?" Immediately there were half a dozen bayonets around me. The one in charge asked "who I was". I replied "Regtl Sergt Major 5th Connaught Rangers". I now enquired who they were.

The Sergt in charge said they belonged to the 4th --- Regt, were out on patrol, and got lost. Could I direct them to their lines". I told him "they were right in front of the Rangers' front line, and liable to get fired on".

I directed him to wait until I warned the men in the trenches not to fire. I went to that part of the trench from which I left, and told the men who was coming along. I returned and brought the patrol to the trenches and directed them on the way to their lines. The patrol had been lost for a couple hours and had no idea where they were.

They were not so far from the Turkish lines. A new Brigade Commander was appointed to succeed Bgdr Genl Cooper wounded. Pending his arrival Col Jourdian commanded the Brigade and Major Money the Battalion.

The heat was intense, and the scarcity of water was cheerfully borne by the men. At 3pm on 20th August the Battn was relieved from the trenches. Later that night they commenced a night March to take up positions preparing for attack on the following day. On arrival the men rested and quantities of Arms, Ammunition and bombs, sandbags and entrenching tools.

I lay down in a dugout which Lieut Cartmel Robinson shared with me and had a well earned couple hours' sleep until dawn. I surveyed the stores delivered during the night, and found three boxes of bombs. This was our first issue of bombs, so I investigated. The pattern I had never seen. Larger than a cricket ball and pear-shaped. A fuse of about four inches attached to each bomb. The boxes contained 12 bombs each. There were 12 slips of sandpaper with
elastic attached for encircling the wrist, along which the sandpaper lay. On the top, or end of fuse which was covered with a dressing of phosphorus for ignition purposes. So you had a bomb with fuse, strip of sandpaper, the tip of fuse covered same as top of a match. You put the sandpaper on left wrist. Fork bomb in right hand ignited the fuse by rubbing on the sandpaper.

Allowed the fuse to burn a second or two before throwing. I assembled the Battn Bombers, Sergeant Carty and 12 men. Up to this we had no bombs in the Bn. I instructed them on the method of preparation and lobbing and after a short time all had assimilated their instruction and about 5pm that afternoon I had the satisfaction of seeing them attacking the Turk trenches and rendering a good account of themselves. I was wounded that afternoon, but I saw Sergt Carty in the 1st Bn. a couple years afterwards in Mesopotamia...Very heavy fire was concentrated on the Turkish positions by the land batteries and the Men of War at Anzac Cove. The ground vibrated, how anything could live in the bombarded area was beyond comprehension. The bombardment continued until "Zero hour" 4pm when the first platoon of "C" Company under Capt Bond advanced and opened out to four paces apart, the other platoons following at short intervals. They were met by a withering fire from the enemy trenches. The heavier the fire the greater the Irishmen cheered. As the third platoon was passing Battalion Headquarters where the C.O. Adjutant and Doctor and I were, I could not resist joining in the charge, although my place was with the C.O. The first three platoons cleared the trenches, in fact the Turks were running as swiftly as they could to get away from the bayonets. A Corporal was chasing a big Turk and could not catch him, so he dropped on his knee and fire bringing the Turk down. He then said "I couldn't let him escape". "C" and "D" companies cleared the first two lines of enemy trenches, captured the wells and up the slope to Kaiajik Aghala.

The objective was gained, the Wells and their defences were in the hands of the Battalion and the Rangers were pushing on to assist General Russell's attack. It was here I was wounded in the leg. I made my way back to Battn Hd Qrs using my rifle and bayonet as a crutch. On my way back I had a few shots at isolated Turks retreating. As soon as I reached Battn Hd Qrs. Col Jourdain said "I had no business going out with the attack. My place was Battn Hd. Qrs". I replied "I could not resist going out".

Dr O'Sullivan bandaged my wound and sent me to base by stretcher. I was really sorry at leaving for I was wholehearted in the operations taking place. On the way to the base the stretcher bearers passed the Quartermasters' dugout. The R.Q.M.S. was there and said "See what lovely Hospital ship you are going on board".

It certainly did look outstanding all lit up. Q.M.S. Galbraith gave the stretcher bearers a lot of rum each and I also had one. On arrival at the beach I took my place with the wounded. Three or four of our officers were already in the Officers section. One said "You are now an officer and should join us". I did not do so as my recommendation only had gone forward. Eventually I was placed on board the Hospital ship and attended to at once. I had a nice bottle of Guinness which I enjoyed. Later I was transferred to a transport the "Arcadian" one of eight transports converted into Hospital ships. The number of wounded was so great that all Hospital accommodation in the Islands and Egypt was exhausted. This necessitated the conversion of the Transports.

So with an escort of Torpedo Boat Destroyers the eight vessels set for England. I shall never forget that voyage. It was dreadful, the conditions under which the men existed. The wounded were laid out in rows of tens and twenties on the deck of the Dining Saloon. The bedding consisted of a mattress filled with straw, a straw pillow, sheet and one blanket. There was no medical staff apart from a doctor who came around once a day, and a night nurse to attend to over 200 wounded on this deck.

She was very good but unable to cope with the large number on the deck all bed cases. Those who could struggled to the lavatories. The flushing arrangements were inadequate as a result the lavatories overflowed and ran out into the passage. There was no one to complain to.

Some of the wounded who died remained for one or two days before their removal. There were a large number of Australians and New Zealanders. The operating theatre was in constant session all the way home. The food was appalling. Personally I wanted very little for I had developed Dysentery and Malaria on the way.'

Hudson was discharged to commission on 29 November 1915 and was finally discharged on 13 October 1919 at 237 BOC HQ Russia.

He seems to have had issues with regards to his War office pension and had correspondence first in 1920 and again in 1937, 1938, 1942 and 1943. Hudson died in January 1953 at Blackpool, Lancashire.

Picture courtesy of Spink

DCM VR (3235 Cpl. E. A. Stebbing. 2nd Devon: Regt.);
QSA (4) Tugela Heights, Orange Free State, Relief of Ladysmith, Transvaal (3235 Cpl. E. A. Stebbing. Devon: Regt.);
KSA (2) (3235 Band Serjt: E. A. Stebbing. Devon: Regt.);
British War Medal 1914-20 (1908 W.O.Cl.I. E. A. Stebbing. R. War. R.);
Jubilee 1935;
Army MSM GVI (1908 W.O.Cl.1. E. A. Stebbing. D.C.M. Warwick.);
Army LS&GC GV (3235 Sjt: E. A. Stebbing. Devon: Regt.)

DCM London Gazette submitted 8 February 1901, approved 19 April 1901. In a joint citation with No. 3059 Lance-Corporal G. Robbins: '23 February 1900 (Tugela Heights). Conspicuous gallantry in carrying wounded men from firing line under very heavy fire.'

Edwin Armstrong Stebbing was born at Poona, India in 1876, the son of Bandmaster E. R. Stebbing and enlisted in the Devonshire Regiment at Aldershot on 30 April 1891 - at that time 14 years 8 months in age. Made Bandsman in 1895, he was promoted Corporal in June 1900. He then served with distinction during the campaign in South Africa, when the 2nd Battalion formed part of the 2nd Brigade under Major-General Hildyard. It was during the actions on the Tugela Heights that his DCM was won, during which their casualties were approximately 6 men killed, 2 Officers and 77 men wounded. Promoted Band Sergeant in June 1902, Stebbing earned his L.S. & G.C. Medal in July 1911 and was made Warrant Officer in August 1911. During the Great War he earned just the British War Medal, whilst a Warrant Officer Class 1 with the Royal Warwickshire Regiment.

Having risen to be Bandmaster of the 2nd Battalion, in September 1922 Stebbing made his transfer to India, taking up the posting as Bandmaster of the combined bands of the 8th Gurkha Rifles, a post he held from December 1922-March 1925. He thence was selected for higher duties, this time to take up the baton as Musical Director of the Band of the Governor of Bombay. In his time the Governors included Air Vice Marshal Sir Frederick Hugh Sykes, G.C.S.I., G.C.I.E., G.B.E., K.C.B., C.M.G. and Michael Herbert Rudolf Knatchbull, 5th Baron Brabourne, G.C.S.I., G.C.I.E., M.C.. Stebbing held this position for a decade, taking the 1935 Jubilee Medal along the way, besides being confirmed for the M.S.M. (the Medal finally being issued in October 1951). Stebbing retired to Australia and settled at 126 Queen Victoria Street, Bexley, NSW.



Sold together with a good original archive comprising:

(i)
Account Pocket Book, Certificates of Education & Discharge, Driving Licence and Passport.

(ii)
1935 Jubilee Medal Certificate.

(iii)
Forwarding letters and confirmation of his M.S.M.

(iv)
Various letters related to his appointments and promotions as Bandmaster.

(v)
A series of related newspaper cuttings.

(vi)
A series of related photographs throughout his career.

(vii)
Large format photograph of the Staff of the Governor, signed by Mr & Mrs Sykes, October 1933.

The DCM group to Colour Sergeant J Batchelor, Worcester Regiment, sold for a hammer price of GBP 6,000. Total GBP 7,440. R 169,290. AUD 14,120. NZD 15,720. CAD 12,790. USD 9,260. EUR 8,530

The group to Band Sergeant E A Stebbing, Devon Regiment, sold for a hammer price of GBP 2,600. Total GBP 3,224. R 73,360. AUD 6,120. NZD 6,810. CAD 5,540. USD 4,010. EUR 3,700

The magnificent group to Major Hudson sold for a hammer price of GBP 28,000. Total GBP 34,720. R 790,000. AUD 65,910. NZD 73,340. CAD 59,680. USD 43,210. EUR 39,810

Picture courtesy of Spink

DCM Ed VII (5082 Corpl: F. Peacock. N. Lancs: Regt.);
QSA (3) Cape Colony, Orange Free State, Transvaal (5082 Corpl: F. Peacock, L.N. Lanc: Regt), the clasps unattached, the first heavily worn with repaired suspension, nearly very fine, the second slight edge bruise.

Spink to not note the copy Transvaal clasp.

Spink say this is one of 17 Distinguished Conduct medals to the Regiment, of whom 5 were attached to Mounted Infantry units.

DCM London Gazette 27 September 1901.

Frank Peacock was born at St Neots, Huntingdonshire in 1878 and enlisted with the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment on 20 February 1896. Passing his Mounted Infantry Course in 1899 he joined the 2nd Malta Company of the 9th Battalion Mounted Infantry at Malta. This unit was being formed for service in the Anglo Boer war and, despite what the name implied, was formed of British troops gathered and trained in Malta rather than Maltese soldiers.

Peacock entered the war in South Africa on 20 February 1900 and was stationed on the Cyphergat Kopje's in late 1900. His position was attacked and three men killed while Peacock was severely wounded on 10 September 1900 for his steadfastness in the attack he was 'mentioned' in Lord Roberts' final dispatch (London Gazette 10 September 1901). This was followed up the award of the D.C.M. however his injury prevented Peacock from seeing any further service and he was invalided in March 1901.

Peacock died in 1957.

Sold for a hammer price of GBP 1,100. Total GBP 1,364. R 31,040. AUD 2,590. NZD 2,880. CAD 2,340. USD 1,700. EUR 1,560

Picture courtesy of Spink

DCM Ed VII (43426 Sjt: J. Johnson. R.G.A.);
QSA (4) Cape Colony, Orange Free State, Transvaal, South Africa 1901 (43426 Sgt J. Johnson, 5th E.D., R.G.A.);
Army LS&GC Ed VII (43426 Serjt: J. Johnson. R.G.A.);
Army MSM Ed VII (Serjt: J. Johnson. R.A.), the first possibly re-pinned, the second with loose top clasp.

DCM London Gazette 31 October 1902.

MID London Gazette 29 July 1902.

James Johnson was born at Castletown, Castlederg, Tyrone. He had previously served in the Donegal Militia before joining the Royal Artillery at Londonderry on 28 June 1894. He served at Gibraltar between 9 October 1884 and 21 February 1885 before serving in Egypt from 22 February 1885 until 24 January 1887. Johnson did not earn any campaign medals for his service in Egypt.

Johnson returned home on 25 January 1887 and remained there until being posted to Gibraltar on 5 November 1895 and from thence to Malta. He was still there when the Cretan Crisis of 1898 broke out and he was posted with his unit to the Island on 7 April 1899. Returning briefly to Malta on 8 April 1899 he was posted to South Africa on 17 January 1900 for Boer War Service.

He was present there on 13 December 1900 for the Battle of Nooitgedacht where two large Boer Commandos under De La Ray and Beyers attacked General Clements column while they were encamped. The Boer's launched an early morning attack but managed to alert the British pickets and suffered heavy losses in the initial encounter. Slowly however they gained the upper hand and eventually the British were forced back to Yeomanry Hill where they dug in. Notably a 4.7-inch naval gun nearly rolled down the hill but was caught and dragged back to British lines before it could be seized by the Boers. Eventually the Boers became distracted by looting the British camp and the Clements was able to slip away having suffered heavy losses but importantly maintained his formation as a fighting unit.

Johnson was posted to Bermuda on 16 June 1901 where he remained until 4 May 1902 when he returned home and joined the Permanent Staff of the Northumberland Volunteer Artillery. He was discharged on 31 July 1903 at Berwick-on-Tweed as a result of being medically unfit for further service.

Johnson was originally issued with a 3-clasp Queen's South Africa Medal but was later found to be entitled to the 'South Africa 1901' clasp which was issued on 25 September 1908.

Sold for a hammer price of GBP 1,200. Total GBP 1,488. R 33,860. AUD 2,820. NZD 3,140. CAD 2,560. USD 1,850. EUR 1,710