| Bonham | Walter Floyd | Captain | BONHAM, WALTER FLOYD, Captain, was born 3 January 1869, eldest son of Edward Bonham. He was educated at Charterhouse, and at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst; graduated 1899, and was gazetted to the Essex Regiment 24 April, 1889, becoming Lieutenant 16 September 1891. He served in South Africa, 1899-1902. On attachment to the 2nd Battalion Devonshire Regiment he had fought at the battle of Colenso, 12 December 1899. Cut-off in a donga close to the abandoned guns of the 66th Battery with his commanding officer, some gunners and other Devons during the heavy fighting, he was taken prisoner-of-war by the Boers. He was imprisoned in the State Model School, Pretoria, along with other captured officers (including Winston Churchill). After his release he was appointed Assistant Provost Marshal, Pretoria, in July 1900, serving under the Military Governor, General Maxwell and Provost Marshal , Major R M Poore, DSO. Twice mentioned in despatches, he was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 26 June, 1902]: "Walter Floyd Bonham, Captain, Essex Regiment. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia were presented to Captain Bonham by the King 18 December 1902. He served as Assistant Provost Marshal at Pretoria, 1900-02, and was involved the raising of the National Scouts and Bushveldt Carbineers and also the investigations into Lieutenants ‘Breaker' Morant and Peter Handcock in 1901 which led to their court-martials and executions. When the Somaliland Burgher Corps was raised by Lieutenant-Colonel Kenna, VC, Captain Bonham became the Commanding Officer and in August 1903 was awarded the brevet of Major. Bonham was promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel in July 1904 and appointed Militatry Attache at the British Embassy in Paris. However, his promising diplomatic career was cut short when he died at Argeles in the Pyrenees on 15 May 1905.
DSO VR, QSA (4) CC OFS RofL Tr (Capt, Essex Rgt), KSA (2) (Cpt, DSO, Essex Rgt), AGS (1) Somaliland 1902-4 (Bt Major, DSO, Essex Regt). City Coins Jun 04 R65,000. DNW Sep 06 £5,500.
Major Walter Floyd Bonham was awarded the DSO for his service as the Assistant Provost Marshal at Pretoria 1900-2. duties which involved the raising of the National Scouts and Bushveldt Carbineers, and also the investigations into Lieutenants "Breaker" Morant. and Peter Handcock in 1901 that led to their court-martials and executions. DSO LG 26 Feb 1902. MID 8 Feb 1901 and 10 Sep 1901. In 1903, he commanded with distinction the Boer Contingent in the Somaliland Campaign - the Somaliland Burgher Corps, a hybrid mix of former National Scouls, Boers who had signed the oath of allegiance and some British, some serving under assumed names. Already a DSO. and in the pre-WW1 days before it was possible to get a bar lo the DSO, he was awarded the Brevet of Major and MID for his services in Somaliland (Bt Major dated 8 Aug 1904, MID LG 2 Sep 1904. Bonham was born in 1869. the son of the British Consul at Calais, and educated at Charterhouse School. He was commissioned into the Essex Regiment in April 1889. promoted to Lieutenant in September 1891 and Captain in January 1900. Obviously destined for great things, he attended and passed Staff College in 1899. He was also one of the few Army officers who qualified as both French and German interpreter. At the beginning of the Boer War he was attached to the 2nd Battalion Devonshire Regiment and fought at the Battle of Colenso on 12 December 1899. Cut-off in a donga close to the abandoned guns of the 66th Battery with his Commanding Officer, some gunners and other Devons during the heavy fighting, he was taken POW by the Boers. He was imprisoned in the State Model School, Pretoria, along with other captured officers, including Winston Churchill. After his release, he was appointed Assistant Provost Marshal, Pretoria, in July 1900, serving under the Military Governor Pretoria, General Maxwell, and the Provost Marshal, the renowned Major R M Poore DSO. This was a tense time for the newly-captured capital, and the Provost Marshal's office was soon involved in the Cordua plot. When Lord Kitchener took over command from Lord Roberts, the Provost Marshal's department became part of his staff. As is well recorded (not least in Bill Woolmore's recent "The Bushveldt Carbineers") the Provost Marshals department was very involved in the raising of the Bushveldt Carbineers for service in the Northern Transvaal. It was also involved in the raising of the National Scouts. It was also heavily involved in the investigations into the Bushveldt Carbineers that led to the arrests and trials of the officers. Captain Bonham took the depositions of the troopers who took part in the actions resulting in the deaths of Rev Heese, Visser, the 'Eight' and 'Three' Boers (see Arthur Davey, Breaker Morant and the Bushveldt Carbineers). When the Somaliland Burgher Corps was raised by Lt Col Kenna, VC, Captain Bonham became the Commanding Officer. The late Don Forsyth wrote a fascinating article on this first South African unit to fight overseas in the "Journal of the Military Medal Society of South Africa ". Bonham was promoted Lieutenant Colonel on 13 July 1904 and appointed Military Attached at the British Embassy in Paris. However, his promising career was cut short when he died at Argeles in the Pyrenees on 15 May 1905.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Essex Regiment |
| Bonus | William John | Major | BONUS WILLIAM JOHN, Major, was born 9 July 1802, son of Major General Joseph Bonus, KP He was educated at Harrow and Sandhurst; was gazetted to the Dorsetshire Regiment, as Lieutenant, 9 September 1882. He served in India and Egypt. He became Captain 21 June, 1890; was ADC in 1890; DAAG, Scottish District, 23 July 1895, to 23 November 1899, and was promoted Major 30 April, 1899. He served in the South African War, from 1899 to 1902, with the Dorsetshire Regiment in Natal until the Relief of Ladysmith, being present at the operations to 24 January 1900, and at the action of Spion Kop; operations of 5 to 7 February 1900, and action at Yaal Kranz; operations on Tugela Heights (14 to 27 February 1900), and action at Pieter's Hill. He was DAAG, 4th Division, 22 March, 1900, to 11 December 1902, and took part in the operations in Natal (March to June, 1900), taking part in the operations in Laing's Nek (6 to 9 June); operations in the Transvaal, east of Pretoria, July to 29 November 1900, including actions at Reit Vlei, Belfast (20 and 27 August); Lydenberg (6 to 8 September) and Rhenoster Kop. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 8 February 1901 ]; received the Queen's Medal and five clasps; King's Medal and two clasps. At the Battle of Spion Kop, when acting as Brigade Major, Major Bonus "found it necessary to go up and remain in the tiring line. He took a party round the Boer flank and enfiladed it, all the other members of the party—officers and men—being killed". It was especially for his services on this occasion that he was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 19 April, 1901]: "William John Bonus, Major, Dorsetshire Regiment. In recognition of services during the recent operations in South Africa". The Insignia were presented to him by the Duke of Cornwall and York, in South Africa, 14 August 1901. He was DAAG, Belfast District, 29 January 1903, to 7 March, 1904; became Lieutenant Colonel 25 October 1900; commanded the Dorsetshire Regiment from 1906 to 1910; was given the Brevet of Colonel 25 October 1909. and retired with the rank of Colonel 16 December 1911. He served as AQMG, Scottish District, 4 August 1914, to July 1916, and subsequently in other capacities (he was Cable Censor from January 1917) until Peace was proclaimed in 1919.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Dorsetshire Regiment |
| Boon | George | Honorary Lieutenant | BOON, GEORGE, Lieutenant, was born in Norfolk 9 Sept, 1846, son of Charles Boon, Farmer, and Elizabeth, his wife. He was educated at Great Yarmouth, and joined the Army 2 July 1864. He saw service in the Perak Expedition, 1875-76, receiving the Medal and clasp. He was given a commission in the East Kent Regiment 24 June, 1891, and served in the South African War from 1899 to 1902, being employed from 18 August 1900, with the Army Service Corps. He was present, at the Relief of Kimberley; operations in the Orange Free State, February to May 1900, including operations at Paardeberg (17 to 26 February 1900); actions at Poplar Grove and Driefontein; operations in the Transvaal, east of Pretoria, July to 29 November 1900; operations in Orange River Colony, May and June 1900; operations in the Transvaal 30 November 1900 to December 1901. 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 appointed a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "George Boon, Quartermaster (Honorary Lieutenant), The Buffs, East Kent Regiment. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". He retired from the East Kent Regiment 14 December 1901, with the honorary rank of Captain conferred 24 June, 1901. In 1871 he married Sarah Turgate Easter and their children were: Ernest, born 5 October 1875; Arthur, born 30 April, 1877; Edgar, born 3 November 1879, and Charles, born 14 August 1882.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | (Buffs) East Kent Regiment |
| Booth | William Henry | Major | BOOTH, WILLIAM HENRY, Major, was born 6 July 1862, son of Major General W Booth, late Royal Artillery; was educated at Wellington College, and the Royal Military College, Sandhurst; entered The Buffs, as Lieutenant, 10 May 1882; became Captain, 1893; Major 16 February 1901; served in the South African War, 1899-1900, on the Staff (as ADC to Lieutenant General, Infantry Division, 4 December 1899 to 4 March 1901); was present at the Relief of Kimberley; during operations in the Orange Free State, February to May 1900, including operations at Paardeberg (17 to 26 February), and actions at Poplar Grove and Driefontein; during operations in the Transvaal, east of Pretoria; during operations in Orange River Colony (May to 2!) November 1900); in the operations in Cape Colony, south of Orange River, 1899-1900; during operations in Cape Colony, north of Orange River, 1900. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 8 February 1901], and created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 19 April 1901]: "William Henry Booth, Major, East Kent Regiment. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". (Insignia presented by the King, 3 June 1901.) He retired from the East Kent Regiment 23 June 1906, and was made JP, Herefordshire. Major Booth was created an OBE in 1918.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | (Buffs) East Kent Regiment |
| Boucher | Benjamin Hamilton | Captain | BOUCHER, BENJAMIN HAMILTON, Captain, was born 20 February 1864, son of B Boueher, of The Croft, Wiveliscombe, Somerset. He was educated at Marlborough; entered the Army 25 November 1885; served with the Burmese Expedition, 1887-89 (Medal with clasp); became Captain 29 August 1892; was appointed Station Staff Officer, Bengal, 1893-95; served with the Chitral Relief Force, 1895, and was Adjutant, 1st Battalion Hampshire Regiment 1896-1900. He served in the South African War, 1899-1900, as Captain of the Hampshire Regiment, taking part in the operations in the Orange Free State, February to May 1900, including operations at Paardeberg (17 to 26 February); actions at Poplar Grove, Karee Siding, Vet River (5 and 6 May) and Zand River; during the operations in the Transvaal in May and June, 1900, including actions near Johannesburg and Pretoria. He was mentioned in Despatches 10 September 1901; received the Medal and three clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901 ]: "Benjamin Hamilton Boucher, Captain, Hampshire Regiment. In recognition of services in the operations in South Africa". The Insignia were presented by the King 29 October 1901. Major Boucher was appointed Adjutant, 4th Volunteer Battalion, 1900-4. On retiring from the Army he was appointed Governor of HM's Prison, Knutsford. Since 1917 he has commanded 1st Garrison Battalion Oxford and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry. He married, in 1896 (1st), Helen, eldest daughter of C Boucher, JP, of Eaglemont, Kilmington, Devon, and of Lambcroft, Lincolnshire; she died in 1904, leaving three sons. He married (secondly), in 1907, Dorothy (who died in 1916), daughter of Engledene Prideaux, of Leeson, Wellington, Somerset.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Hampshire Regiment |
| Boulton | Charles Percy | Captain | BOULTON, CHARLES PERCY, Captain, was born 1 September 1868, at Cosgrove Priory, Northamptonshire, son of Charles G Boulton, JP, and Georgiana Nicholl. He was educated at Haileybury, and Magdalen College, Oxford (BA, 1890); and was gazetted to the 4th Bedfordshire Militia 28 January 1888. He served in the South African War from March, 1900, to June, 1902 (from November 1900, to June, 1902, in command of the 4th Bedfordshire Regiment); was Camp Commandant at Mafeking. He was present in the operations in the Transvaal, west of Pretoria, to September 1900; in Cape Colony, south of Orange River, 1901; in Cape Colony, north of the Orange River; in the Transvaal and Orange River Colony, September 1901 to April, 1902. He was Temporarily Commander of Bloemhof Sub-District, and assisted in the operations in Cape Colony in December 1900, to September 1901. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 29 July 1902]; 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, 31 October 1902]: "Charles Percy Boulton, Captain, 4th Bedfordshire Regiment. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". He was subsequently promoted Major; was invalided out of the Army in 1915, and through ill health was unable to take any part in the Great War. He died 24 February 1916.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Bedfordshire Regiment |
| Bowden | Frank Lake | Captain | BOWDEN, FRANK LAKE, Captain, was the son of John Thomas Bowden, City Carlton Club, St Swithin's Lane, and was educated at Dulwich College. He served throughout the Matabele War (Medal); took part in the Jameson Raid in charge of Maxims; served in the Matabele Rebellion in 1896 (clasp). He served in the South African War of 1899-1900, with Brigadier General Plumer; was present at the Relief of Mafeking. He received the Medal with four clasps and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 19 April, 1901]: "Frank Lake Bowden, Captain, British South Africa Police. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". He died 26 June, 1906, at Gwelo, Rhodesia, South Africa, of blackwater fever, aged 42 years.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | British South Africa Police |
| Bowen | Charles Otway Cole | Captain | BOWEN, CHARLES OTWAY COLE, Captain, was born 30 August 1867. He entered the Royal Engineers 17 February 1888, becoming Lieutenant 17 February 1891, and Captain 17 February 1899. Captain Bowen served in the South African War, 1899-1902, being present at the Relief of Kimberley; at the operations in the Orange Free State, including operations at Paardeberg and action at Driefontein; operations in the Transvaal, including actions near Johannesburg and Diamond Hill; operations in the Transvaal, east of Pretoria, including action at Belfast; operations in Cape Colony, south of Orange River, including action at Colesberg; operations in the Transvaal 30 November 1900 to 31 May 1902. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 4 May 1900, and 10 September 1901]; received the Queen's Medal with six clasps, the King's Medal with two clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "Charles Otway Cole Bowen, Captain, Royal Engineers. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia were sent to the Commander-in-Chief in South Africa, and presented by the GOC, Transvaal and Orange Free State, 2 September 1902. He was promoted to Major 1 October 1906, and died at King's Hill, near Harrismith, Orange River Colony, 18 March, 1910. An obituary notice of Major Bowen appeared in the 'Times' of 24 March, 1910.
DSO, QSA (6) RofK Paard Drief Joh D-H Belf (Capt RE), KSA (2) (Capt RE). Lovell 1978 £315. Peter Ireland 1992 £895.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Engineers |
| Bowen | Gerard Christopher | Captain | BOWEN, GERARD CHRISTOPHER, Captain, was born 28 July 1864, son of Major General W T Bowen and Rosa Bowen (nee Pack). He was educated at Malvern College, and entered the Army 25 November 1885. He was promoted Captain 11 December 1893. He served in South Africa, in the Mounted Infantry, 1899-1902; during operations in Cape Colony, Orange River Colony and the Transvaal, 1899-1900, taking part in the operations in Cape Colony, Orange River Colony and the Transvaal 30 November 1900 to 31 May 1902. He 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]: "Gerard Christopher Bowen, Captain, Royal Munster Fusiliers. In recognition of services during operations in South Africa". The Insignia were presented by the King 18 December 1902. He retired from the Royal Munster Fusiliers 14 September 1904; was re-employed after the outbreak of the hostilities in 1914. He was mentioned in Despatches, and promoted Major, 1916. He married (1st), in 1889, Kathleen Rachel (died 1890), daughter of the Reverend H Y Russell, and (secondly), in 1896, Mildred Hilda, daughter of P Hughes.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Munster Fusiliers |
| Bowen | Harry James Ap-Owen | Captain | BOWEN, HARRY JAMES AP-OWEN, Captain, was born 9 February 1867, third son of the Reverend Arthur James Bowen, JP, of Troedyraur, Cardiganshire. He was a solicitor, and was a steward of the Jockey Club of South Africa. He served in the South African War, 1899-1900; was severely wounded, mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 10 September 1901]; received the Queen's Medal with two clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "Harry James Ap-Owen Bowen, Captain, Kimberley Light Horse. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". He married, in 1904, Amy Langford Pote.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Kimberley Light Horse |
| Bowman-Manifold | Michael Graham Egerton | Lieutenant | BOWMAN-MANIFOLD, MICHAEL GRAHAM EGERTON, Lieutenant, was born 9 June, 1871, son of Surgeon General Manifold. He entered the Royal Engineers 13 February 1891; became Lieutenant 13 February 1894; Captain'17 October 1901; Major 13 February 1911; Lieutenant Colonel 24 September 1918; Temporary Brigadier General from 5 February 1918. He was employed with the Egyptian Army 8 November 1895 to 11 January 1899; Staff Officer to Director of Railways, South Africa, 1 January to 4 July 1900; Telegraph Superintendent, South Africa, 5 July 1900 to 12 August 1901; GS03, Headquarters of Army, 9 June 1909 to 20 September 1912; GSO2, War Office, 21 September 1912 to 8 June 1913; Director of Army Signals, Mediterranean Expeditionary Force; Egyptian Expeditionary Force, 20 March, 1915 to 4 February 1918; Director of Army Signals, Egyptian Expeditionary Force, 5 February 1918. He served with the Expedition to Dongola, 1896, as Staff Officer of Telegraphs; took part in the operations of 7 June (horse killed) and 19 Sept (Despatches [London Gazette, 3 November 1896]; 4th Class Medjidie; Egyptian Medal with two clasps); served with the Nile Expedition, 1897, as Staff Officer of Telegraphs (clasp to Egyptian Medal); again with the Nile Expedition, 1898, as Staff Officer of Telegraphs, Headquarters Staff; was present at the battles of the Atbara and Khartoum (Despatches [London Gazette, 24 May 1898]; 4th Class Osmanieh; two clasps to Egyptian Medal; Medal); served in the South African war, 1899-1901, on Staff (Despatches [London Gazette, 10 September 1901]; Queen's Medal with three clasps). He was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "Michael Graham Egerton Bowman-Manifold, Lieutenant, Royal Engineers. For services during the recent operations in South Africa". The Insignia were presented by the King 29 October 1901. For his services in the European War (Dardanelles, 1914-15) he was thrice mentioned in Despatches, and was created a CB in 1917; a CMG in 1918, and a KBE in 1919; was made Officer, Legion of Honour, and given the Brevets of Lieutenant Colonel 18 February 1915, and Colonel 8 November 1015.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Engineers |
| Boyall | Alfred Morey | Lieutenant | BOYALL, ALFRED MOREY, Lieutenant, was born 6 October 1877, son of John Richard Boyall, of Ealing. He was educated at Harrow (The Park), 1891, and joined the Army as a Second Lieutenant in the West Yorkshire Regiment, 16 February 1898, becoming Lieutenant 28 May 1899. He served in the South African War, taking part in the operations in Natal, 1899, and the Relief of Ladysmith with the action of Colenso; operations of 17 to 24 January 1900; action at Spion Kop; operations of 5 to 7 February 1900; action at Vaal Kranz; operations on Tugela Heights, and the action at Pieter's Hill, in which he was wounded; operations in Natal (including the action at Laing's Nek), March to June, 1900; operations east and west of Pretoria, in the Transvaal, July to 29 November 1900, and in the Transvaal 30 November 1900 to 31 May 1902. He was twice mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 8 February and 10 September 1901]; received the Queen's and King's Medals with seven clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "Alfred Morey Boyall, Lieutenant, West Yorkshire Regiment. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia were presented by the King 12 May 1902. He had his captaincy 19 January 1905, and between March 1908, and March 1912, was employed in the Militia, and in the Special Reserve as Adjutant. Captain Boyall served again with distinction in the European War. After being employed as Staff Captain (March and April 1915) and DAAG (April 1915 to April, 1916) at the General Headquarters of the British Expeditionary Force, and becoming Brevet Major 1 September 1915, he was Acting Lieutenant Colonel, West Yorkshire Regiment, 1 November 1916 to March 1918. He was mentioned in Sir John French's Despatch of 15 October 1915, dated War Office, 1 January 1916. Mentioned in Sir Douglas Haig's Despatch, dated War Office, 15 June, 1916, and awarded a Bar to the Distinguished Service Order 4 February 1918: "Alfred Morey Boyall, Acting Lieutenant Colonel, West Yorkshire Regiment. When in command of an advanced guard battalion he pushed forward, after the capture of the first objective, and occupied a more advanced position, which was one of great importance, on his own initiative. His appreciation of the situation and display of bold initiative had considerable bearing on the success of the whole operations". He was given his Brevet Lieutenant Colonelcy 1 January 1918. Lieutenant Colonel Boyall married, in 1905, Ida Mary Albina, daughter of Major General Sykes.
DSO with 2nd and 3rd Bars, QSA (5) T-H OFS RofL Trans L-N (Lt) KSA (2), 1914 Star and Bar, BWM, Victory Medal with MID (Lt Col), Legion d'Honneur (France) 4th Class. Regimental Museum 1986.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | (Prince of Wales's Own) West Yorkshire Regiment |
| Boyce | William George Bertram | Major | BOYCE, WILLIAM GEORGE BERTRAM, Major, was born 27 May 1868, second son of Reverend W G Boyce, of Ballinoulart, County Wexford. He was gazetted to the Royal Berkshire Regiment, as Second Lieutenant, 14 September 1887, becoming Lieutenant, Royal Berkshire Regiment, 2 April 1891; Army Service Corps 1 April 1892, and Captain, Army Service Corps, 7 July 1893. He was Staff Captain, Cork District, 1 July 1899 to 8 October 1899. From 9 October 1899 to 10 January 1901, he was DAAG, 2nd Division, South African Field Force. He was present at 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 1900), and action at Pieter's Hill. Operations in the Transvaal, in June 1900. Operations in Natal (March to June 1900), including action at Laing's Nek (6 to 9 June). Operations in Cape Colony, south of Orange River, 1899-1900. He was mentioned in Despatches (Sir R H Buller, 30 March and 9 November 1900) [London Gazette, 8 February 1901]; received the Queen's Medal with five clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 19 April 1901]: "William George Bertram Boyce, ASC. In recognition of services in the recent operations in South Africa". He was promoted to Major 1 January 1901, and Lieutenant Colonel 12 January 1909. From 4 July 1909 to 14 August 1913, Lieutenant Colonel Boyce was Commandant, Army Service Corps Training Establishment; became Colonel 30 October 1912; from 15 August 1913 to 14 December 1913, he was Assistant Director of Supplies and Transport, Aldershot Command, and from 15 December 1913 to 4 August 1914, he was Assistant Director of Supplies and Transport, Eastern Command. He served in the European War from 1914; was Deputy Director of Transport 5 August 1914 to 29 November 1914; became Temporary Brigadier General 30 November 1914, and was Director of Transport, British Expeditionary Force, 30 November 1914 to 13 May 1918, and Director of Transport, British Armies in France, from 16 May 1918. He was seven times mentioned in Despatches; promoted Major General 3 June 1917; created a CB, 1915; a CMG, January 1919, and a KCMG in 1919. He was awarded the Order of St Stanislaus, 2nd Class, with Swords, and Legion of Honour (Officier). In 1895 Sir William Boyce married Maud, eldest daughter of Captain J C Boyce, King's Own Regiment, of Wentworth, Merrion Road, Dublin.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Army Service Corps |
| Boyd | Gerald Farrell | Lieutenant | BOYD, GERALD FARRELL, Lieutenant, was born 17 October 1877, second son of Robert Boyd. He was educated at St Paul's School, and enlisted in the Devonshire Regiment in 1895; became Sergeant 1899; was commissioned Second Lieutenant, East Yorkshire Regiment, 5 May 1900; became Lieutenant 26 April, 1902. He served in the South African War, 1899-1902, being employed with the Mounted Infantry; was present at the Relief of Ladysmith, including action at Colenso; took part in the operations in Orange River Colony, including actions at Wittebergen (1 to 29 July); served in the Transvaal, February to March, 1901, and August 1901 to March, 1902; was present during operations in Orange River Colony 30 November 1900 to August 1901, and March to 31 May 1902; took part in the operations on the Zululand Frontier of Natal in September and October 1901, also in Cape Colony. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 10 September 1901; 25 April and 29 July 1902]; received the Medal for distinguished conduct in the field; the Queen's Medal with three clasps, and the King's Medal with two clasps. He was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 31 October 1902]: "Gerald Farrell Boyd, Lieutenant, East Yorkshire Regiment. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". He became Captain in the Leinster Regiment 19 March, 1904, and was Brigade Major, 11th Infantry Brigade, Eastern Command, 21 September 1912 to 4 August 1914. He was also Brigade Major of the 11th Infantry Brigade, British Expeditionary Force, during the European War until 23 February 1915. He was promoted Major, Royal Irish Regiment, 18 March, 1915, and was given the Brevet of Lieutenant Colonel 19 March, 1915; was employed as GSO2, 1st Division, British Expeditionary Force, 3 March to 5 July 1915; GSO1, 6th Division, BEF, British Armies in France, 6 July 1915 to 19 June, 1916. He was Temporary Brigadier General from 20 June, 1916 to 4 September 1918, employed as Brigadier General, General Staff, 5th Army Corps, British Armies in France, 20 June, 1916 to 15 July 1918, and Brigade Commander, 170th Infantry Brigade, British Armies in France, 16 July to 4 September 1918. He was given the Brevet of Colonel 1 January 1917. He was Temporary Major General in command of the 46th Division, British Armies in France, 5 September 1918, to 10 April, 1919, when he was appointed Brigadier General, General Staff, GHQ, British Army of the Rhine, and was made a Major General 3 June, 1919. For his services in the European War he was four times mentioned in Despatches, and was created a CMG in 1918, and a CB in 1919. Major General G F Boyd married, in 1913, Grace Sophia, eldest daughter of Arthur Hugo Burdett, of Coolfin, Banagher, Ireland. He had two sons.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | East Yorkshire Regiment |
| Boyd-Moss | Ernest William | Lieutenant | BOYD-MOSS, ERNEST WILLIAM, Lieutenant, was born 26 September 1870, youngest son of M H Moss, of Belsize, Worthing. He was educated at Tonbridge School, and entered the Worcestershire Regiment 1 December 1897. He served in the South African War, 1900-2; as Acting AS Corps Officer; took part in the operations in Orange Free State, February to May 1900; in Orange River Colony, May to 29 November 1900, including actions at Ladybrand 2 to 5 September; in the Transvaal, January to June, 1901, and again in Orange River Colony 30 November 1900 to January 1901, and June, 1901 to February 1902 (Despatches [London Gazette, 10 September 1901]; Queen's Medal with three clasps, and King's Medal with two clasps). He was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "Ernest William Moss, Lieutenant, Worcestershire Regiment. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". He became Lieutenant 2 January 1900, and Captain 6 February 1901, and served with the West African Rifles 12 November 1904 to 11 July 1907. His name was changed to Boyd-Moss 10 June, 1914, by enrolled deed-poll. Captain Boyd-Moss served in the Great War, and was killed in action at the Dardanelles on 10 August 1915. He had married, in 1910, Mary Elizabeth Grace, only child of Frank M Howard, and they had one son.
DSO, QSA (3) CC OFS Trans (Capt DSO W Rid Regt), KSA (2) (Capt DSO W Rid Regt), [East and West Africa Medal (1) Sierra Leone], 1914-15 Star (Maj DSO WRR), BWM, Victory Medal with MID (Maj), Bronze Plaque.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Worcestershire Regiment |
| Boys | Reginald Harvey Henderson | Captain | BOYS, REGINALD HARVEY HENDERSON, Captain, was born 17 October 1867, son of Admiral Henry Boys. He entered the Royal Engineers 24 July 1886. He received the thanks of the community of Hong-Kong and a service of plate for services rendered during the plague in 1894. He became Captain 31 December 1896; served in the South African War, 1899-1902, and took part in operations in Natal, 1899; the defence of Ladysmith; operations in Natal, March to June, 1900; operations in the Transvaal, east of Pretoria, July to 28 November 1900; operations in Cape Colony and Orange River Colony 30 November 1900, to 31 May 1902; was Assistant Director of Army Telegraphs, Cape Colony. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 8 February and 10 Sept, 1901, and 29 July 1902]; received 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, 27 September 1901]: "Reginald Harvey Henderson Boys, Captain, Royal Engineers. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". He was invested by the King 24 October 1902. He was promoted to Major 9 April, 1905; was Staff Captain, War Office; Commandant, Signal Service Training Centre, 6 May 1915 to 30 November 1915: Deputy Director of Army Signals, Forces in Great Britain, 6 May 1918 to 21 November 1918. He was twice mentioned in Despatches: wounded; was given the Brevet of Colonel 3 June, 1917, and created a CB in 1915. He became Deputy Chief Engineer, Eastern Command, 18 January 1919, with the temporary rank of Brigadier General. Colonel Boys married (1st), in 1896, Elizabeth Mary (who died in 1908), daughter of Kenneth Murray, of Geanies, County Ross. He married (secondly), in 1912, Dorothy Conyers, daughter of Conyers Baker, and they had two sons and one daughter.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Engineers |
| Brabant | Guy Alfred | Lieutenant | BRABANT, GUY ALFRED, Lieutenant, was born 6 October 1873, at East London, South Africa, son of Major General Sir Edward Yewd Brabant, KCB, CMG, and Lady Brabant. His father greatly distinguished himself in the Boer War, and was the head of Brabant's Horse. He was created a KCB and was promoted Major General for his services. Another son was killed during a cavalry reconnaissance from Ladysmith. G A Brabant joined the Army in December 1900, and served in the South African War from then until 1902. He received the South African Medals with two clasps each; was promoted Captain, and created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 31 October 1902]: "Guy Alfred Brabant, Lieutenant, South African Mounted Irregular Forces. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The decoration was awarded in particular for gallantry near Pearston, Cape Colony, 10 March, 1902. While with Colonel Price's Column, Lieutenant Brabant attacked a very strong position held by six Boers. He himself, with Second Lieutenant Francis and Sergeants Walsh and Metcalf, shot three of the six Boers and wounded one, and also captured six horses, saddles, etc. He was mentioned in Lord Kitchener's Despatch of 1 June 1902. He retired from the Cape Colonial Forces, as Captain, 26 September 1902, and became Lieutenant, Border Light Horse, Cape of Good Hope, 25 May 1903. Captain Brabant then farmed in Cape Colony. His favourite recreations were cricket, tennis and shooting. On 27 December 1910, at Koungha, Cape Town, Captain Brabant married Mary Ethel Austin Reaney, eldest daughter of C T Reaney, of Freetown, and they had a son, Richard Brabant, born 14 November 1912.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | SAMIF |
| Bradley | Robert William | Lieutenant | BRADLEY, ROBERT WILLIAM, Lieutenant, was born 26 January 1874, only child of Commander W H Bradley, RN. He was educated at Harrow and Sandhurst, and joined the Army 7 March, 1894, as a Second Lieutenant in the South Wales Borderers. He was promoted Lieutenant 14 November 1896. In the South African War he served as Station Staff Officer 10 June to 7 July 1900, and afterwards as Garrison Adjutant, Klerksdorp, 8 July to 8 August 1900; as Adjutant of the 2nd Battalion of his regiment 10 January 1900 to 31 May 1902; was present in operations in the Orange Free State, February to May 1900, including actions at Karee Siding, Vet River (5 and 6 May) and Zand River; operations in the Transvaal, May and June, 1900, including action near Johannesburg; operations in the Transvaal, west of Pretoria, August to 29 November 1900; operations in Orange River Colony, June to August 1900; operations in the Transvaal 30 November 1900 to 31 May 1902. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 10 September 1901]; awarded the Medal with three clasps; the King's Medal with two clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 31 October 1902]: "Robert William Bradley, Lieutenant, South Wales Borderers. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". He became Captain 11 December 1905; was Assistant Instructor, School of Musketry, January 1903 to January 1906. He was an Officer of a Company of Gentleman Cadets, Royal Military Academy, Woolwich, January to August 1913, and Commander of a Company, August 1913 to October 1914; became Major 27 September 1914. Serving in the European War, 1915-18, he was Temporary Lieutenant Colonel, Machine Gun Corps, from September 1914 to July 1917; graded as AAG, while employed on special duties, Machine Gun Corps Training Centre, July to September 1916. He was given the Brevet of Lieutenant Colonel for his services 1 January 1917; was Temporary Lieutenant Colonel, Tank Corps, July to November 1917. His chief amusements were shooting, fishing, riding, cricket and golf. Lieutenant Colonel Bradley married (1st), in 1898, Dorothea Lilias (died 1908), only child of Lieutenant Colonel A H Bircham; (secondly), in 1910, Eleonora Kathleen, daughter of Right Reverend John Lloyd, Bishop of Swansea.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | South Wales Borderers |
| Braithwaite | William Garnett | Captain | BRAITHWAITE, WILLIAM GARNETT, Captain, was born 21 October 1870. He was educated at Marlborough, and at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst; was gazetted to the Royal Welsh Fusiliers 23 May 1891, becoming Lieutenant 16 May 1894. He was Adjutant, 1st Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers, 2 March, 1898 to 5 March, 1900, and became Captain 19 July 1899, serving in the South African War from 1899 to 1902; served as Brigade Major 6 March 1900 to 27 March 1901, and as DAAG 28 March, 1901 to 4 August 1902, and as Assistant Commander. He took part, while serving as Adjutant, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, in operations in Natal, 1899; Relief of Ladysmith, including action at Colenso; operations on Tugela Heights (14 to 27 February 1900) and action at Pieter's Hill. While serving on the Staff and as Assistant Commissioner, he was present at operations in the Transvaal, May and June, 1900; operations in the Transvaal, west of Pretoria, July to 29 November 1900, including actions at Frederickstad (17 to 25 October); operations in Cape Colony, north of Orange River, including action at Ruidam (slightly wounded); operations in the Transvaal 30 November 1900, to April, 1901; operations in Cape Colony, April, 1902 to 31 May 1902. He was mentioned in Despatches (Sir R H Buller, 30 March, 19 June and 9 November 1900) [London Gazette, 8 February 1901]; was given the Brevet of Major; received the Queen's Medal with six clasps, the King's Medal with two clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "William Garnett Braithwaite, Captain, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia were presented to him by the King 27 October 1901. He was Adjutant, Volunteers, 26 March, 1902 to 31 December 1904; Officer, Company of Gentleman Cadets, Royal Military College, 31 January 1906 to 6 September 1907; Adjutant, Royal Military College, 7 September 1907 to 21 January 1910; promoted Major 4 May 1910; GSO3, New Zealand Military Forces, 25 May 1911 to 24 May 1914. He served in the European War from 1914; as GSO1, New Zealand Division, Egypt, and was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel 21 August 1915; commanding the 2nd New Zealand Infantry Brigade 21 December 1915 to January 1918. He was given the Brevet of Colonel 3 June, 1917; was Brigade Commander, General Staff, 16 February to 14 October 1918; Brigade Commander 19 October 1918. He was created a CMG in 1916, and CB in 1918. Colonel Braithwaite was a JP for Westmorland. He married, in 1901, Gwendolen Elizabeth, daughter of Lieutenant General E O Hewett, CMG, RE, and they had son and two daughters.
CB (m), CMG, DSO, QSA (5) CC T-H OFS RofL Trans, KSA (2), 1914-15 Star, BWM, Victory Medal with MID, Order of the White Eagle (Serbia). Regimental Museum Carnaervon 1992.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Welsh Fusiliers |
| Brereton | Edward Fitzgerald | Major | BRERETON, EDWARD FITZGERALD, Major, was born 21 January 1861, son of William Westropp Brereton, QC, of the Irish Bar. He was educated at Cheltenham College, and at Reading School, and entered the Army, as a Second Lieutenant in the 48th Foot, 11 August 1880; became Lieutenant in the Northamptonshire Regiment 12 March, 1881, and was Adjutant 5 August 1885 to 4 August 1890, being promoted Captain 1 September 1886. He served during operations on the North-West Frontier of India, 1897-98; took part in the operations on the Samana; also with Tirah Expeditionary Force (Medal with three clasps). He was promoted Major 18 January 1899. He served in the South African War, 1899-1902, as District Commandant; afterwards Station Staff Officer, and as Assistant Provost-Marshal. Was present at the advance on Kimberley, including actions at Belmont, Enslin, Modder River and Magersfontein; served in the Orange Free State, February to May 1900; also in Orange River Colony, May to November 1900; in the Transvaal 30 November to December 1900, and March, 1901 and 31 May 1902; also in Cape Colony, December 1900 to March 1901 (Despatches [London Gazette, 29 July 1902]; Queen's Medal with four clasps, and King's Medal with two clasps). He was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 31 October 1902]: "Edward Fitzgerald Brereton, Major, Northamptonshire Regiment. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". He was promoted Lieutenant Colonel 2 June 1907, and commanded the 2nd Northamptonshire Regiment until 1911; became Colonel 19 July 1911, and was appointed to command the 2nd West Riding Brigade (TF) in 1912. He served in the European War from 1914 to 1918, and was created a CB in 1916. On 24 April, 1918, he retired with the rank of Brigadier General. Brigadier General Brereton married, in 1887, Fanny E, youngest child of Major General E Foster, late 12th Regiment, and they had one daughter.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Northamptonshire Regiment |
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