| Perkins | Robert Clark | Surgeon Captain | PERKINS, ROBERT CLARK, Surgeon Captain, was born on 8 May 1864, son of Thomas Cooper Perkins and Jane Clark. He was educated at Wesley College, Dublin; is a Member of the Royal College of Surgeons and a Licentiate of the Royal College of Physicians. He served in the South African War, and became Surgeon Captain in 1899. He was twice mentioned in Despatches, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 19 April 1901]: "Robert Clark Perkins, Surgeon Captain, Brabant's Horse. For services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia were presented to Captain Perkins in South Africa; a public presentation being impracticable, they were handed to him at Heidelberg. He was appointed Medical Officer to the Swaziland Administration. He married Alice Eva Knox, on 22 August 1894, and they had two children: Norah Kathleen Knox, and Arthur Desmond Knox, born 25 April 1897. Captain Perkins died 7 May 1910, at Bremersdorp, Swaziland, South Africa. A newspaper cutting says: "We take the following obituary notice of Captain Perkins, eldest son of Mr T C Perkins, Farra, Killala, whose death we announced with deep regret some time ago, from the columns of the 'Lake Chrissie Chronicle' of 12 May: 'We deeply regret to announce the death on Sunday last of Captain R Clark Perkins, DSO, Resident Justice of the Peace for Bremersdorp, and formerly Principal Medical Officer for Swaziland. He was ill for a few days. He leaves a widow, son and daughter to whom we tender our most sincere sympathies. The funeral took place at Bremersdorp on Monday. About sixty persons were present to pay the last tribute of respect, including the acting Resident Commissioner, Major Gibson, DSO, Mr Marwick, Mr Warner and many other officials. The coffin was covered with the Union Jack and many wreaths. The Reverend C C Watts read the Burial Service. Captain Perkins was one of the oldest officials in Swaziland, and came to the country with the SAC in 1902 immediately after the Boer War, and has been officially connected with the Administration ever since. About three years ago his health broke down, and he was ordered to England for rest. His health became sufficiently restored for him to resume active work, and Captain Perkins returned to Swaziland, where he relinquished the post of Principal Medical Officer in Swaziland on his appointment as Resident Justice of the Peace at Bremersdorp. He gained his DSO during the Boer War whilst serving with the CMR at Wepener for attending wounded under fire. He took an energetic part in the organization of the Swaziland Contingent for service in South-West Africa, and his son, Desmond Perkins, went through the campaign with the corps, and is now in training at Sandhurst".
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Brabant's Horse |
| Perry | Arthur Clyde | Captain | PERRY, ARTHUR CLYDE, Captain, was born 1 June 1872, only son of the Reverend W V Perry, of Sandhurst, near Gloucester. He was educated at Marlborough, and served in the South African War; was mentioned in Despatches, received the Queen's Medal with four clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "Arthur Clyde Perry, Captain, 16th Battalion Imperial Yeomanry. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". He was invested by the King 17 December 1901. Major Perry retired from the 4th Battalion the Manchester Regiment. He served in the European War, 1914-17; served in the Machine Gun Corps. He married, in 1903, Margaret, youngest daughter of Captain Thomas de Winton, RHA, of Wallsworth Hall, near Gloucester.
DSO, QSA (4) CC Trans Witt SA 01 (Capt, DSO, 16 IY), BWM, Victory Medal with MID (Maj), Special Constabulary Medal (GV). Spink 1984 £500. Holditch 1985 £650.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | 16th Battalion, Imperial Yeomanry |
| Phillips | H C B | Captain | PHILLIPS, H C B, Captain, served with the Imperial Yeomanry in South Africa, 1900-2. He was mentioned in Despatches, received the Queen's Medal with three clasps, the King's Medal with two clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 26 June 1902]: "H C B Phillips, Captain, Imperial Yeomanry. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". He served in Northern Nigeria in 1903, and received the Medal and clasp; was for some time Resident, Northern Nigeria, and died at Hadeija, Northern Nigeria, on 1 September 1906. An obituary notice of him appeared in the 'The Times', Captain Phillips had married, in 1885, H E, daughter of Harwood Hoyle, of Lancashire.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Imperial Yeomanry |
| Phillips | Henry Jacob Vaughan | Captain | PHILLIPS, HENRY JACOB VAUGHAN, Captain, served in the South African War, 1899-1902, as Acting Intelligence Officer. He also performed the duties of Transport Officer. Captain Jacob was present at the operations in the Orange Free State, April to May 1900; operations in Orange River Colony, May to 29 November 1900 operations in Cape Colony, 1900; operations in the Transvaal, May 1901 to January 1902; operations in the Orange River Colony from 30 November 1900 to March 1901; operations in Cape Colony, April to May 1901, and January to February 1902. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 10 Sept 1901]; received the Queen's Medal with three clasps; the King's Medal with two clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "Henry Jacob Vaughan Phillips Captain, 3rd South Wales Borderers. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia were presented by the King 2 June 1902. Major Phillips died 6 May 1914.
DSO, QSA, (3) CC OFS Trans (Capt & Adj, 13 Coy IY), KSA (2), Africa GSM 1902 (2) N Nigeria 1903 N Nigeria 1906 (Capt DSO IY). Christies 1983 £780.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | South Wales Borderers |
| Phillpotts | Louis Murray | Captain | PHILLPOTTS, LOUIS MURRAY, Captain, was born 3 June 1870, second son of the Reverend H J Phillpotts and Mrs H J Phillpotts, of Shadwell, Speldhurst, Kent. He passed out of Woolwich into the Royal Artillery 14 February 1890, becoming Lieutenant 14 February 1893. He served in the South African War, 1899-1901, in the early part of which he performed the duties of Acting Staff Officer to the Officer Commanding the Lines of Communication, North. Afterwards he was in the advance on Kimberley and fought in the action of Modder River. He took part in the operations in the Orange River Colony, February to May 1900, including operations at Paardeberg (17 to 26 February), and was also in the actions near Johannesburg. He was present also at the operations in the Transvaal and Orange River Colony 30 November 1900 to November 1901; was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 10 September 1901], received the Queen's Medal with three clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "Louis Murray Phillpotts, Captain, Royal Horse and Royal Field Artillery. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia, Warrant and Statutes were sent 6 March 1902 to Walkem Rectory, Stevenage. He was promoted to Captain 23 January 1900. He was Divisional Adjutant, RA, 10 June 1900 to 31 March 1901; Adjutant, RA, 1 April 1901 to 9 June 1904, and became Major 3 July 1907. He held a first-class certificate in gunnery. Major Phillpotts served in the European War, and was gazetted Lieutenant Colonel in October 1914, and in the following year was promoted to the Staff, with the rank of Brigadier General. Serving with great distinction, he was mentioned in Despatches, and was made a Companion of St Michael and St George. Brigadier General L M Phillpotts was killed in action 8 September 1916, and a memoir of him appeared in the 'Times' of 18 September 1916. The 'Morning Post' of 13 September 1916, had the following notice: "Killed in action on the 8th September—Brigadier General Louis Murray Phillpotts, DSO, CMG, RFA, the beloved husband of Amy Phillpotts, of Russelstown Park, Carlow, and second son of the Reverend H J and Mrs Phillpotts, of Shadwell, Speldhurst, Kent".
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Artillery |
| Pickering | William | Captain | PICKERING, WILLIAM, Captain, was born 25 February 1856, son of Reverend E Pickering. He served in Kreli-Gaika, in 1878; in the Zulu War in 1879; and in the South African War, 1899-1900, when he was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "William Pickering, Captain, Kimberley Town Guard. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia of the DSO were presented to Captain Pickering at Port Elizabeth, by the Governor of Cape Colony, 5 April 1905. He was Secretary to the De Beers Consolidated Mines, Limited, 1897 to 1917, and was a Director in 1917. Captain Pickering married, in 1890, Ethel Annie, daughter of George Wright, of Grahamstown.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Kimberley TG |
| Pike | William Watson | Major | PIKE, WILLIAM WATSON, Major, was born 10 March, 1860, son of William Pike, JP, of Glendaray. He entered the Army in 1882, and became Major, Royal Army Medical Corps, 4 February 1894 (12 years' service). He served in the South African War, 1899 to 1902; was present at the Relief of Kimberley; took part in the operations in the Orange Free State, February to May 1900, including operations at Paardeberg (17 to 24 February); actions at Poplar Grove and Driefontein; operations in the Transvaal, east of Pretoria, July to 29 November 1900; operations in Cape Colony, south of Orange River, 1899-1900; operations in Cape Colony, 1901. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 8 February and 16 April, 1901]; received the Queen's Medal with five clasps; King's Medal with two clasps; and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 19 April, 1901]: "William Watson Pike. Major, Royal Army Medical Corps. In recognition of services during the recent operations in South Africa". The Insignia were presented by the King 3 June, 1901. He became Lieutenant Colonel 4 February 1903; Colonel, 9 November 1911. Colonel Pike served in the European War from 1914; was appointed Deputy Director of Medical Services 31 October 1915: Director of Medical Services, 1st Army, BEF, 1 November 1915 to 20 July 1917; was promoted to Temporary Surgeon General 1 November 1915, and to Major General 3 March, 1917. He was mentioned in Despatches; created a CMG, 1916, and a KCMG, 1919. Sir W W Pike was a Rugby International, Ireland, 1879-83, and a Hockey Inter-Provincial, Ireland, 1898. He was an FRCSI.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Army Medical Corps |
| Pilcher | Edgar Montagu | Captain | PILCHER, EDGAR MONTAGU, Captain, was born at Meerut, India, 25 April 1865, son of Colonel J G Pilcher, FRGS. He was educated at Clifton College; Clare College, Cambridge, and Guy's Hospital; BA, MB and BC (Cantab) in 1890; FRCS, England, in 1905. He became Captain, RAMC, 30 January 1895, having previously served three years, and was present at the operations on the North-West Frontier of India, 1897-98, with the Tirah Expeditionary Force, receiving the Medal with two clasps. Captain Pilcher served in the South African War, 1899 to 1902, and took part in the Relief of Ladysmith, including the action at Colenso; operations of 17 to 24 January 1900, and action at Spion Kop; operations of 5 to 7 February 1900, and action at Vaal Kranz; operations on Tugela Heights (14 to 27 February) and action at Pieter's Hill; operations in the Orange River Colony, May to July 1912; operations in the Transvaal, November 1900 to January 1902, He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 8 February and 10 September 1901]; received the Queen's Medal with five clasps, the King's Medal with two clasps, and for services in connection with the Relief of Ladysmith was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "Edgar Montagu Pilcher, Captain, Royal Army Medical Corps. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia were presented to him by the King 18 December 1902. He was promoted to Major 30 January 1904; was appointed Professor, Royal Army Medical College, 1 August 1910; was given the Brevet of Lieutenant Colonel 26 November 1913. In the European War he served as Consulting Surgeon to the Forces; was given the Brevet of Colonel 12 September 1916; became Colonel 26 December 1917; was appointed Honorary Surgeon to the King 26 December 1917; was twice mentioned in Despatches, and created a CB in June 1918, and a CBE in 1919. Colonel Pilcher married, in 1899, Lilias Mary, daughter of Captain Henri Campbell, Indian Staff Corps.
CB (m), CBE (1st m), DSO, IGS 1895 (2) P-F 1897-98 Tirah (Capt), QSA (5) CC T-H OFS RofL Trans (Capt MB, DSO), KSA (2) (Capt MB, DSO), BWM, Victory Medal with MID (Col). March 1985 £1,225.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Army Medical Corps |
| Pilleau | Henry Charles | Captain | PILLEAU, HENRY CHARLES, Captain, was born at Bermuda 17 February 1866, only child of Colonel H G Pilleau, RE, and a great-nephew of General Thomas Addison, CB, Colonel Commanding the Queen's Regiment. He was educated at Wellington College, and the Royal Military College, Sandhurst, where he was Senior Under-Officer, and passed out with honours, taking the prize for military topography. He was gazetted to the Royal West Surrey Regiment in February 1887; became Lieutenant in July 1889, and Captain in March 1896. He served in the South African War, 1899-1902, and was present at the Relief of Ladysmith, and actions of Colenso, Spion Kop, Vaal Kranz and Pieter's Hill; operations on Tugela Heights, also in Natal, including Laing's Nek. He was twice mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 8 February and 10 September 1901]; received the Queen's Medal with five clasps; King's Medal with two clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "Henry Charles Pilleau, Captain, Royal West Surrey Regiment. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". He was invested by the King 24 October 1902. Major Pilleau served in the European War; was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel on the 18th of September 1914, and was mortally wounded in the Battle of the Aisne. Notwithstanding his dying condition, Lieutenant Colonel Pilleau continued for four hours to direct his men. It was not known till dark, when retiring, that he had been wounded. He died a week afterwards, on the 21st of September 1914, in the American Ambulance of Neuilly. In July 1904, he had married Edith Maud, daughter of Lieutenant Colonel W E Mockler, 4th Battalion West India Regiment.
DSO, QSA (5) T-H OFS RofL Trans L-N (Capt, DSO, RWS Regt), KSA (2) (Capt, Queens), 1914 Star and Bar (Maj, DSO), BWM, Victory Medal (Lt Col). Christies 1983 £580. Glendinings 1987 £680.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | (Queen's) Royal West Surrey Regiment |
| Pilson | Arthur Forde | Captain | PILSON, ARTHUR FORDE, Major, was born 17 May 1865, at Downpatrick, County Down, son of Conway Pilson, JP, of Rathvilla, Downpatrick, and of Sarah Overend. He was educated at the Royal School, Armagh, and entered the Royal Dublin Fusiliers 9 May 1888; was Adjutant, 1st Battalion Royal Dublin Fusiliers, 1890-94. He was promoted Captain, 20 December 1896; took part in operations in Matabeleland, 1896, and acted as Adjutant to the Mounted Infantry (Despatches [London Gazette, 9 March 1897]; Brevet of Major, and Medal); served in South Africa, 1899-1903, on special service, including service with the Rhodesian Protectorate Regiment and the South African Constabulary; was appointed Assistant District Commissioner, subsequently District Commandant, and afterwards Administrator, No 4 Martial Law Area, Cape Colony; was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 16 April 1901], awarded the South African Medal with four clasps; the King's Medal with two clasps, and created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "Arthur Forde Pilson, Captain and Brevet Major, Royal Dublin Fusiliers. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia were sent to Lord Roberts 18 January 1902, and presented privately 24 March 1902. He retired in 1908, and joined the Reserve of Officers. On mobilization at the outbreak of the European War he was appointed Second-in-Command, Depot, The Royal Irish Regiment, and subsequently Adjutant. The following extract appeared in the 'Irish Times' of 28 March 1919: "Mentions for service.— The names of the undermentioned, with others, have been brought to the notice of the Secretary of State for War for valuable services rendered in connection with the war, etc—Pilson, Brevet Major A F, DSO, RP, Royal Irish Regiment". Major Pilson was demobilized 12 February 1919. He married, 14 January 1907, Aida Constance, second daughter of Robert St John Mayne, of Mount Sedborough, County Fermanagh, and of Mrs A C Ormsby, of Elm Park, County Dublin.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Dublin Fusiliers |
| Pine-Coffin | John Edward | Captain | PINE-COFFIN, JOHN EDWARD, Captain, was born 24 December 1866, son of John Richard Pine-Coffin, JP, DL, County of Devon, and Mrs Pine Coffin (Matilda, youngest daughter of William Speke, of Jordans, Somerset), of Kenwith Castle, Bideford, Devon. He was educated at Eton (served in the Eton Rifle Corps for three years) and Cambridge, and from 1880 to 1888 was Lieutenant, North Lancashire Militia. He was gazetted to the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment 10 November 1888, and joined the 2nd Battalion in Jersey, as Second Lieutenant, and he became Lieutenant 13 October 1891. In 1890 he was specially selected to go to Aldershot in command of Mounted Infantry, and he became Captain 5 June 1898. In January 1900, he went on active service to South Africa, commanding Mounted Infantry. Specially selected to join Colonial Division, and commanded the advance guard to Wepener. Later, was selected to command the 9th Battalion Mounted Infantry, and with that battalion was constantly engaged in fighting. Specially mentioned in Despatches, by Lord Roberts, in a special despatch for "good work in an independent command", and received a Brevet Majority dated 24 April 1901: "He was in an independent command, near Ventersburg, Orange River Colony, and the Boers captured the American Consul and Lord Lennox, who was carrying important despatches to Lord Roberts. Captain Pine-Coffin, with a patrol of thirty-five men, followed up the enemy for twenty miles, engaged their rear guard, recovered the despatches, and captured many Boer prisoners. The Boer force was over two hundred, and commanded by General Theron, the well-known Boer Scout". Specially selected to command a column of 'all arms' to operate in the Orange River Colony. Was continually engaged in fighting, and on more than one occasion these fights had important results. His command was now increased up to 2,000 men, consisting of Irish Colonials, Boer Scouts, and the 9th Battalion Mounted Infantry, which required considerable tact to manage. They fought several engagements, of which the principal one was an action with General Philip Botha. In this engagement, which lasted from 6am to 5pm and in which our troops were greatly outnumbered, they captured the Boer laager, and General Philip Botha and his son fell in the engagement. The success of this engagement had very important results in the Orange River Colony. He was mentioned in Special Despatch, and received Commander-in-Chief's nomination for the Staff College, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "John Edward Pine-Coffin, Captain, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment. In recognition of services during operations in South Africa". (Invested by the King 12 March 1902). After this he was engaged for many months in the country extending from the Vaal River to Bloemfontem, in dispersing any raiding parties of Boers, and generally administering magisterial duties in the district. He served in Egypt, 1903-7, and became Major 20 June 1907. The following is an extract from the London Gazette: "Brevet Major Pine-Coffin, DSO, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment, who rendered valuable service in command of a battalion of Mounted Infantry, and afterwards at the head of a column, in South Africa, has been selected for the command of the Mounted Infantry in Egypt". In 1900 a state of great unrest prevailed in Egypt, and his duties consisted of moving about with British troops and Egyptian Police all through the country engaged in Intelligence and Police Duties. During one of these marches they were attacked by a large number of fanatical Mohammedans, and it was with extreme difficulty that they got away with the loss of one officer killed. The following are extracts from official documents: "The conduct of our officers and men on this tragic occasion was marked by a remarkable forbearance and humanity in the face of great provocation". "We should like to express our admiration of the conduct of the British officers, which was worthy of the best traditions of the Army. Major Pine-Coffin, who was in command of the party, did all that was in his power to quiet the villagers. We have lost a gallant and distinguished officer, but the self-restraint and forbearance shown on this tragic occasion adds to the honour of the British Army". — Letter from Judge Perry, Supreme Court, Cairo. "We are deeply grieved at your sufferings from the dastardly attack made on you and your brother officers, and how proud we feel of the cool and gallant behaviour of our countrymen, and not least of your own, which was worthy of your name and your noble county at home". The following is an extract from orders, Headquarters, Cairo, 18 May 1906: "A small disturbance in Cairo may have to be suppressed. A half company Mounted Police, half company Mounted Infantry, and two companies KRRC, will be ready to move at short notice under the command of Major Pine-Coffin, DSO". At the termination of Major Pine-Coffin's appointment, he was offered an extension of one year by the War Office, which he accepted. In 1907 he left Egypt and took over command of the 2nd Battalion Loyal North Lancashire Regiment in Mauritius, which he held for one year, and then retired voluntarily in 1909. Major Pine-Coffin married, at Londonderry, Ireland, Louisa Gertrude Douglas, youngest daughter of John Barre Beresford, JP and DL, of Learmount and Ashbrooke, County Londonderry, and their children were: Edward Claude, born in 1895; Richard Geoffrey, born in 1908; Gertrude Beresford, and Gwendolyn May.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Loyal North Lancashire Regiment |
| Pitt-Taylor | Walter William | Lieutenant | PITT-TAYLOR, WALTER WILLIAM, Lieutenant, was born 30 August 1878, son of Charles Pitt-Taylor. He was educated at Eton, and became Second Lieutenant, Rifle Brigade, 18 October 1899; Lieutenant 1 August 1900. He served in the South African Campaign from November 1899 to the end of the war with the 1st Battalion Rifle Brigade, being present at the Relief of Ladysmith, including action at Colenso; operations of 17 to 24 January 1900; operations of 5 to 7 February 1900, and action at Vaal Kranz; operations on Tugela Heights 14 to 27 February 1900, and action at Pieter's Hill; operations in Natal, March to June 1900; operations in the Transvaal, east of Pretoria, July to 29 November 1900; operations in the Transvaal, December 1900 to 31 May 1902. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 29 July 1902]; received the Queen's and King's Medals with six clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 31 October 1902]: "Walter William Pitt-Taylor, Lieutenant, Rifle Brigade. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". He was Adjutant, Rifle Brigade, 17 July 1903 to 16 July 1906; became Captain 23 January 1905; was on Special Service in Egypt 5 October 1908 to 4 April 1909, and 3 September to 4 October 1909. Captain Pitt-Taylor served in the European War. He was GSO 3rd Grade, 3rd Army Corps, 5 August 1914 to 31 March 1915; Brigade Major, 12th Infantry Brigade, BEF, from 1 April to 30 September 1915; GSO, 2nd Grade, 37th Division, from 1 October 1915 to 4 February 1916; GS01, 4th Army, BEF, British Armies in France, 5 February 1916 to 30 October 1917, GS01, 14th Army Corps, British Armies in France, 31 October to 9 November 1917; GS01, British Mission with the Italian Army, 11 November 1917 to 27 August 1918; Temporary Brigadier General 28 August 1918 to 9 March 1919; Brigade Commander, 145th Infantry Brigade, British Armies in France, 28 August to 8 October 1918; Brigadier General, General Staff, 14tb Army Corps, British Armies in France, 9 October 1918 to 9 March 1919. He was appointed Temporary Military Assistant (GSO1), Imperial General Staff, 10 March 1919. Colonel Pitt-Taylor was nine times mentioned in Despatches; was given the Brevet of Major 3 June 1915; of Lieutenant Colonel 1 January 1917, and of Colonel 3 June 1918; was created a CMG in 1918, and CB in 1919. He was an Officer of the Legion of Honour; had the French and Italian War Crosses and also the Italian Silver Medal for Valour.
KCB (m), CMG, DSO, QSA (4) CC T-H RofL Trans, KSA (2), 1914 Star, BWM, Victory Medal, Defence Medal, 1911 Coronation, 1935 Jubilee, 1937 Coronation, Legion dHonneur (France) 5th Class, Criox de Guerre (France), Al Valore Militare (Italy), Al Merito de Guerra (Italy). Regimental Museum, Winchester 1996.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | (Prince Consort's Own) Rifle Brigade |
| Place | Charles Otley | Lieutenant | PLACE, CHARLES OTLEY, Lieutenant, was born 3 October 1875. He entered the Army as a Second Lieutenant in the Royal Engineers 7 August 1895, and was promoted Lieutenant 7 August 1898. He served in the South African War, 1899 to 1902, taking part in the Relief of Ladysmith, including operations of 17 to 24 January 1900; operations of 5 to 7 February 1900, and action at Vaal Kranz; operations on Tugela Heights (14 to 27 February 1900) and action at Pieter's Hill; operations in the Transvaal, June 1900; operations in Natal, March to June 1900, including action at Laing's Nek (6 to 9 June); operations in the Transvaal, east of Pretoria, July to 29 November 1900. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 29 July 1902]; awarded the Queen's Medal with five clasps; the King's Medal with two clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 31 October 1902]: "Charles Otley Place, Lieutenant, Royal Engineers. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". He was prompted Captain, Royal Engineers, 7 August 1904; was employed as Adjutant, Militia, and Adjutant, Special Reserve, May 1905 to June 1908; Officer of a Company of Gentleman Cadets, Royal Military Academy, January to September 1909, and Commander of a Company, September 1909 to January 1910; General Staff Officer, 3rd Grade, Western Command, April 1912 to the outbreak of the European War. He was promoted Major 30 October 1914. He served in the European War, holding the following appointments, viz: GSO2, First Army, Central Force, Home Defence, 5 August to 4 October 1914; GSO3, Fourth Army, British Expeditionary Force, 5 October 1914 to 9 February 1915; GSO2, 19th Division, New Armies, British Expeditionary Force, 15 February 1915 to 4 April 1916; Temporary Lieutenant Colonel and GSO1, 36th Division, British Armies in France, 5 April 1916 to 26 May 1918. He was mentioned in Despatches; given the Brevet of Lieutenant Colonel 3 June 1916, and created a CMG in 1917. Lieutenant Colonel Place was specially employed at the War Office 4 February to 31 March 1919, and became GSO, War Office (temporary), 1 April 1919.
CMG, DSO, QSA (5) T-H OFS RofL Trans L-N (Lt, RE), KSA (2) (Lt, RE), 1914 Star and Bar (Capt, DSO RE), BWM, Victory Medal with MID (Lt Col). Glendinings 1953 no price information. Glendinings 1989 £620.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Engineers |
| Pollard | W A | Captain | POLLARD, W A, Captain, served in South Africa with Bethune's Mounted Infantry, 1900-2. He was mentioned in Despatches; awarded the King's Medal with two clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 31 October 1902]: "W A Pollard, Captain, Bethune's Mounted Infantry. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa".
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Bethune's Mounted Infantry |
| Pollok-Morris | William Pollok Morris | Major | POLLOK-MORRIS, WILLIAM POLLOK MORRIS, Major, was born 12 March 1867, son of Colonel R M Pollok-Morris, of Kilmarnock, and Agues Tennent, daughter of John Buchanan. He was educated at Harrow and at Trinity College, Cambridge; became Lieutenant, 18th Hussars, 25 August 1886; Captain 12 February 1893. He served in the Chitral Expedition in 1895, with the Relief Force (Medal and clasp), and took part in operations on the North-West Frontier of India, 1897, with the Tirah Expeditionary Force, as Regimental Assistant to the Base Commissariat Officer (October 1897 to April 1898). He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 5 April 1898], and received two clasps. He was Adjutant, 18th Hussars, 28 August 1898 to 31 August 1900; and was promoted to Major 1 September 1900. He served in the South African War, 1899-1902, and was slightly wounded, being present at operations in Natal, 1899, including the action at Talana; operations in the Transvaal, 30 November 1900 to September 1901, and November 1901 to 31 May 1902; operations in Orange River Colony, March and May 1902; operations on the Zululand Frontier of Natal in September and October 1901. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 29 July 1902]; received the Queen's Medal with four clasps, and King's Medal with two clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 31 October 1002]: "William Pollok Morris Pollok-Morris, Major, 18th Hussars. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". He was Second-in-Command, Victoria Mary Princess of Wales's Hussars, in 1903; was Lieutenant Colonel commanding the Regiment from 19 February 1906 to 1910; was given the Brevet of Colonel 19 February 1909, and retired with the rank of Colonel 4 June 1913. He was created CMG in 1918. Colonel Pollok-Morris was a DL and JP. He married, in 1907, Jane Catherine, eldest daughter of Robert Jameson Torrie, of 1 Glenfinlas Street, Edinburgh, and they had one daughter, Ellison Janet.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | 18th (Victoria Mary, Prince of Wales's Own) Hussar |
| Polson | Donald | Captain | POLSON, DONALD, Captain, was born in New Zealand, 10 October 1871, son of George M'Leod Polson, of Helmsdale, Scotland. He was educated at Christchurch, New Zealand; served for six years in the New Zealand Volunteer Force; took part in the South African War, as Captain in the 5th New Zealand Contingent in South Africa, 1900. He was mentioned in Despatches, and created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 19 April 1901]: "Donald Polson, Captain, New Zealand Mounted Rifles. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia, etc, were sent to the Colonial Office, and presented by the Earl of Ranfurly 29 January 1902, at Wellington, New Zealand. The decoration was especially awarded for services in the North-Western Transvaal. He retired with the rank of Major, 31 July 1912, from the New Zealand Mounted Rifles.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | New Zealand contingent |
| Ponsonby | John | Captain | PONSONBY, JOHN, Captain, was born 25 March 1866, eldest son of General The Right Honourable Sir Henry Ponsonby. He was gazetted to the Royal Irish Rifles 16 November 1887, and to the Coldstream Guards 15 August 1888, becoming Lieutenant 29 June 1891. He was ADC to the Governor and Commander-in-Chief, South Africa, 10 August 1891 to 30 January 1895; served in operations in Matabeleland (Medal); was promoted to Captain 7 September 1898, and in that year served in Uganda (Medal), and again in 1899, during the operations against Kabarega (clasp). Captain Ponsonby served in the South African War, 1899-1902, on special service with the Rhodesian Field Force, 19 February 1900 to 7 July 1901. He was Adjutant, 5th New Zealand Regiment, 8 June 1900 to 1 January 1901; afterwards in command 1 January to 18 January 1901. From February to May 1900, be was employed with Mounted Infantry, and he took part in operations in the Transvaal, west of Pretoria, from July to 29 November 1900; operations in the Transvaal, February to June 1901; operations in Cape Colony, February to 31 May 1902. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 10 September 1901]; received the Queen's Medal with four clasps, the King's Medal with two clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "John Ponsonby, Captain, Coldstream Guards. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia were presented by the King 27 October 1901. He was promoted to Major 23 January 1904, and commanded the Guards' Depot 1 March 1905 to 28 February 1907. He became Lieutenant Colonel 28 October 1913. Lieutenant Colonel Ponsonby served in the European War, 1914—18; commanded the 2nd Guards Brigade, BEF, 26 August 1915 to 19 November 1916: was given the Brevet of Colonel 1 January 1916; commanded the Special Reserve Infantry Brigade 28 November 1916 to 7 March 1917; commanded the 21st Infantry Brigade, BEF, 8 March to 20 March 1917; became Colonel 20 March 1917; commanded the 2nd Guards Brigade, British Armies in France, 21 March to 21 August 1917; commanded the 40th Division, British Armies in France, 22 August 1917 to 3 July 1918; subsequently commanded the 5th Division, British Armies in France, 4 July 1918 to 1 April 1919; was promoted to Major General 1 January 1919. He was mentioned in Despatches; created a CMG in 1915, a CB in 1918, and was given the Brevet of Colonel.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Coldstream Guards |
| Ponsonby | William Randall | Lieutenant | PONSONBY, WILLIAM RANDALL, Lieutenant, was born in August 1874, eldest son of Colonel Justinian Gordon Ponsonby. He served in the South African War in Thorneycroft's Mounted Infantry, and in the South African Constabulary, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 19 April 1901]: "W R Ponsonby, Lieutenant, Thorneycroft's Mounted Infantry. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia were presented by the King 29 October 1901. He was gazetted to the 3rd Dragoon Guards and retired. Captain Ponsonby married, in 1902, Lilian Patteson, daughter of Sir Patteson Nickalls and Florence, daughter of T S Womersley. He died 18 January 1919.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Thorneycroft's Mounted Infantry |
| Poole | Frederick Cuthbert | Captain | POOLE, FREDERICK CUTHBERT, Captain, was born 3 August 1869, son of Reverend H H Poole, Rector of Rainton, County Durham, and of Elizabeth Lawrence Poole (Pawlett). He was educated at Durham, and the Royal Military Academy, Woolwich, and joined the Army in February 1889. He served in the Tirah Expedition, 1897-8 (Medal with two clasps); in the South African War of 1899-1902; operations in Natal, March to June 1900, including action at Laing's Nek; operations in the Transvaal, east of Pretoria, including actions at Belfast and Lydenberg; operations in Cape Colony, south of Orange River, 1899-1900; operations in the Transvaal, Orange River Colony and Cape Colony. He was mentioned three times in Despatches [London Gazette, 8 February and 10 September 1901, and 29 July 1902]; awarded the Queen's Medal with four clasps; the King's Medal with two clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 31 October 1902]: "Frederick Cuthbert Poole, Captain, Royal Garrison Artillery. In recognition of services in the operations in South Africa". He had become Captain in June 1899; served in East Africa, 1903-4, in command of the 1st Somali Camel Corps; operations in Somaliland Special Service Officer (Despatches; Medal with clasp); was promoted Major in June 1909. He served in the European War, and for his services he was seven times mentioned in Despatches; promoted Lieutenant Colonel June 1915, and Brevet Colonel June 1917, and created CMG 1917; promoted Colonel June 1919; created CB in 1918; created KBE June 1919; Officier de la Legion d'Honneur (France), 1915; Officer (1st Class) Order of St Stanislaus, 1917; Officer (1st Class) Order of St Anne, 1917; Officer (2nd Class) Order of St Vladimir, 1918; Grand Officer of the Crown of Roumania, 1917; Temporary Brigadier General April 1916; Temporary Major General May 1917. He married, in 1903, Alice Maude, only daughter of Sir C A Hanson, Baronet MP, JP, of Fowey Hall, Cornwall.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Garrison Artillery |
| Poore | Robert Montagu | Captain | POORE, ROGER ALVIN, Lieutenant, was born 3 July 1870, at Bath, son of Robert Poore, formerly Major, 6th Hussars, and Juliana Benita Poore, daughter of Rear Admiral Sir Armar Lowry Corry, KCB, and Lady Corry (nee Massy Dawson). Roger Alvin Poore, then a Lieutenant in the Royal Wiltshire Yeomanry, volunteered for the South African War, and was appointed to the Mounted Infantry Company of the Yorkshire Light Infantry (3rd Mounted Infantry) 17 November 1899, and served with them in all engagements from Belmont 23 November, Graspan 25 November, Modder River 30 November, Magersfontein, 11 December, the Relief of Kimberley, Paardeberg, etc, to the Battle of Diamond Hill on the 11th and 12th June 1900. His horse was shot under him at Sanna's Post, and, in another engagement, a bullet passed through his helmet. Soon after Diamond Hill he was appointed District Magistrate, when, in the performance of his duties, "he was regarded as the soul of honour and uprightness, and a loyal, genuine friend", by both Boers and English. His Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Pilcher, wrote on 19 December 1900: "I can think of no officer who has seen more, or as much, fighting as Lieutenant Poore has done. I have on more than one occasion sent forward his name for honourable mention; I know no better patrol leader. He was on one occasion called out and thanked by Major General Hutton for his good work. He is an excellent Mounted Infantry Officer". Lieutenant Poore (then Captain) was mentioned in Lord Roberts's Supplementary Despatches 10 September 1901. He was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "Roger Alvin Poore, Lieutenant, Royal Wiltshire Yeomanry. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". In 1911 Major Poore received the Coronation Medal. On the 11th January 1915, he was appointed to the command of the 2/1st Royal Wiltshire Yeomanry, and, in the Supplement to the London Gazette, War Office, 24 February 1917, the name of (Temporary) Lieutenant Colonel R A Poore is (with those of other officers) mentioned as having been brought before the Secretary of State for War "for valuable services rendered in connection with the war". In February he was transferred to the 2nd Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers, and served with them till he was killed in action on 26 September 1917. His Colonel, writing to Mrs Poore, said: "There is one thing that you will hear with pride, and that is, that the battalion under your husband's command behaved most gallantly in the action and has covered itself with glory. Your husband has endeared himself to everybody in the battalion, and his loss will be most acutely felt. He had helped and supported me most loyally; indeed, I do not know how I will get on without his wise advice. He was one of the most gallant gentlemen I have ever met". Brigadier General Mayne (of the 33rd Division) wrote, 2 October 1917: "He was so keen and enthusiastic about anything he did, and he set such a fine example by his devotion to duty and strength of character. The last time I saw him (25 September) he was moving up with his battalion to the front line, full of enthusiasm and a splendid example to his officers and men". Major Poore was a splendid horseman, an excellent shot with both rifle and gun, and very keen on every kind of sport. At the Military Tournament at the Agricultural Hall in 1899, the only time he competed, he won First Prize for Sabre v Sabre. "The best of friends, the most gallant of men; an awful loss for all and their name is legion, and for the country he served so well". He married, on 9 December 1913, Lorne Margery, daughter of Major Richard James William Dennistoun and Mrs Despard, of Hamilton, and their children were Lorne Heather Dennistoun, born 23 December 1914 (died 22 February 1915), and Roger Hamilton Poore, born 19 August 1916.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | 7th (The Queen's Own) Hussars |
|
|
