TOPIC:

John Campbell was awarded the DSA during the ABW- can a member please advise as to the event.
He was attached to the 2nd Batt Coldstream Guards and served as Adjutant at Graaff-Reinet in 1901 and 1902.

Did he keep a diary / record which is accessible for research purposes?

Thank you

Peter Greeff

Hi Peter,

John Vaughan Campbell's citation, like many for SA merely says "In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa".

As a lieutenant, I would imagine that he did something special to receive the aard.

After the Boer War he served in the European War, and was awarded the Victoria Cross in 1916 and created a CMG in 1918.

As such, I would expect there to a detailed biography of his life that will help you in your research.

Best wishes
David

Thanks David

PeterG
According to my copy of the Services of Officers, JV Campbell in ABW; A/A/Provost Marshal, afterwards Station Staff officer. Served as Adj. of 2GG (30111900-31051902). Advance on Kimberley, incl actions at Belmont, Enslin, Modder R and Magersfontein, operations in the OFS Feb to May 1900 including actions at Poplar Grove, Dreifontein, Vet River and Zand River. Ops in the Transvaal may and June 1900, including actions near Jhb, Pretoria and Diamond Hill. Ops in the Tvaal east of Pretoria July to October 1900 including actions at Belfast. Ops in the Tvaal west of Pretoria Nov 1900. Ops in Cape Colony south of Orange River, 1900. Ops in the Tvaal Nov to Dec, 1900, ops in Cape Colony Dec 1900 to 31051902. Despatches LG 10091901 and 29071902. QSA six clasps, KSA two clasps, DSO.

My own note: I would suggest that a search of GG publications would give you some idea of why the DSO. Indeed, Campbell appears to have had quite a few opportunities to come to notice!
I trust that the above assists you a bit.
Regards
IL,

Peter,

His obituary from The Times, 23 May 1944:

His memorial service was very well attended: