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QSA: CAPE COLONY, ORANGE FREE STATE, JOHANNESBURG, BELFAST officially named to: 4079 PTE. J. MCKILLIGAN. 2ND DRAGOONS’

John McKilligan (Hardie) was a native of Dranie, Lossiemouth, Morayshire. He seems to have had a tough childhood, for by the time he was aged four he was living with his grandparents whose surname was McKilligan. Enlisting in Glasgow in 1895, he served with the 2nd Dragoons who arrived in South Africa in December 1899 and took part in the Relief of Kimberley. McKilligan did not get earn that clasp; possibly on account of illness. According to South African Surrenders (TNA WO108/372, refers), McKilligan on 27 May 1900 (or 26/05/1900 at Vet River) 'Was captured when out scouting, his horse was killed and fell on him preventing his escape. 'Further proof of his capture comes from the list of released Prisoners of War published in The Times, with his release on 6 June 1900. Additionally, entitled to the King's Medal which was issued under the surname 'Hardie'. The medal may have been returned, as the roll is unclear. The QSA appears to be one of only four Medals with this combination of clasps issued to Regiment. Rolls confirm QSA issued as McKilligan.