| Chichester | Arlington Augustus | Captain | CHICHESTER, ARLINGTON AUGUSTUS, Captain, was born 2 July 1863, son of Major General J O Chichester, of Western House, Chudleigh, Devon, and Mrs Chichester (nee Preston). He was educated at Cheltenham College, and at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst, 1883, and has passed the Staff College. He entered the Dorsetshire Regiment 23 August 1884, and was promoted to Captain 11 March, 1891. He served in the South African War, 1899-1901, as Assistant Provost-Marshal 13 June 1900 to 4 March, 1903; was present at the Relief of Ladysmith, and at the action at Spion Kop; took part in operations 5 to 7 February 1900; was present at action at Vaal Kranz; participated in operations on Tugela Heights, and fought in the action at Pieter's Hill; took part in operations in the Transvaal, June, 1900; in operations in Natal, March to June, 1900, including action at Laing's Nek, and in operations in Orange River Colony, June 1900. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 10 September 1901]; received the Queen's Medal, with five clasps; the King's Modal with two clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "Arlington Augustus Chichester, Captain, Dorsetshire Regiment. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia were presented by the King 28 March, 1903. He became Major 26 February 1902; was on the General Staff, Hong-Kong, 19 March 1903 to 23 August 1904, as DAQMG, and was DAAG, South China, 24 August 1904 to 18 May 1907. He was promoted Lieutenant Colonel 19 February 1910, and Colonel 2 June, 1913. He served in the European War from 5 August 1914 to 18 October 1914, as AA and QMG, 2nd Army Corps, BEF; as Brigade Commander, Reserve Troops, BEF, 20 October 1914 to 29 December 1914. He commanded the 5th Infantry Brigade, BEF, from 30 December 1914 to 12 July 1915; and was DAQMG, BEF, 13 July 1915 to 8 November 1915; DAQMG, BEF, and British Armies in France, 9 November 1915 to 11 November 1917; DQMG, British Armies in Italy, 12 November 1917. He was mentioned in Despatches eleven times; promoted to Major General for distinguished service 3 June, 1917; created a CB in 1915, and a KCMG in 1919. Sir A A Chichester had the 1914 Star, the Belgian Order of the Crown and Croix de Guerre; the Italian Order of St Maurice and St Lazarus; the French Legion of Honour and Croix de Guerre. He married, in 1891, Eva Isabella Maude, third daughter of Major General H Justice, formerly ISC, of Riven Hall, Southsea; they had one son.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Dorsetshire Regiment |
| Cholmondeley | Henry Reginald | Captain | CHOLMONDELEY, HENRY REGINALD, Captain, was born 11 June, 1864, fourth son of Reverend the Honourable H P Cholmondeley. He served in South Africa in 1900, was mentioned in Despatches, and created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 19 April, 1901]: "H R Cholmondeley, Captain, Brabant's Horse. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia, Warrant and Statutes were sent to the Commander-in-Chief, South Africa; sent to the GOC, Transvaal, and presented 1 January 1902. Major Cholmondeley served in the European War in the 10th Battalion Devonshire Regiment He married, in 1903, Cordelia Mercy, daughter of James Cross Ormrod, of Wyrsiale Park, Garstang.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Brabant's Horse |
| Christian | Gerard | Captain | CHRISTIAN, GERARD, Captain, was born 2 June, 1867, at Valetta, Malta, son of Alfred Christian, CMG, and Mrs Alfred Christian (nee Miss Hall, of Dunglass). He was educated at Cheltenham College, and joined the Yorkshire Regiment as Second Lieutenant 5 February 1887; became Lieutenant 2 May 1890; was Adjutant, Yorkshire Regiment, 16 January 1897 to 15 January 1901; was promoted to Captain 17 August 1898. He served in the South African War, 1899-1902, as Captain and Adjutant, 1st Battalion He was present at the Relief of Kimberley; took part in the operations in the Orange Free State, February and March, 1900, including operations at Paardeberg; actions at Poplar Grove and Driefontein; operations in the Transvaal, cast of Pretoria, including action at Belfast; operations in Cape Colony, south of Orange River, including action at Colesberg. Captain Christian was Staff Officer of the Town Guards in the Cape Peninsula. He took part in the operations in the Transvaal from 30 November 1900, to 21 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]: "Gerard Christian, Captain, Yorkshire Regiment. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia were presented by the King 24 October 1902. He became Major 21 January 1906, and was Lieutenant Colonel, Yorkshire Regiment, 28 March, 1911 to 13 April, 1913. He became Colonel 15 June 1914, and Temporary Brigadier General 14 April 1915; commanded the 4th Brigade in India during the Mohmand operations August to December 1915. He was mentioned in Despatches. Brigadier-General G Christian commanded the 36th Brigade, Indian Expeditionary Force in Mesopotamia, December 1915 to 1 October 1916, and was mentioned in Despatches. He was Inspector of Infantry, HQ, India, 28 December 1916, to 2 October 1918; was created a CB (Military), 1916, and received the Serbian Order of the White Eagle with Swords. He became Inspector of Infantry in India. Lieutenant Colonel Christian married, 16 September 1913, in London, SW, Evelyn Hilliard, daughter of E B Hilliard, of Writtle, Essex.
CB (m), CIE, DSO, QSA (4) RofK Paard Drief Belf (Capt Yorks Regt), KSA (2) (Capt DSO Yorks Regt), 1914-15 Star (Brig-Gen DSO) BWM, Victory Medal with MID, (Brig-Gen), IGS 1908 Afghanistan NWF 1919 (Brig-Gen, Staff) Order of the Whire Eagle (Serbia) 3rd Class with swords. Armoury 1987 £4000.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | (Princess of Wales's Own) Yorkshire Regiment |
| Christie | Albert Edward | Lieutenant | CHRISTIE, ALBERT EDWARD, Lieutenant, was born 3 December 1860, son of Charles Robertson Christie, of Toronto. He served in the North-West Rebellion in 1885. He again saw active service in South Africa in 1900, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 19 April, 1901]: "Albert Edward Christie, Lieutenant, Lord Strathcona's Corps. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia, etc, were sent to Canada, and presented to him by Miss Wetmore, daughter of Judge Wetmore. He became Major, 16th Light Horse, and served in the European War with the Canadian Expeditionary Force. Major Christie married Mary Ludlow, daughter of Chief Justice Wetmore, and they had three sons and one daughter.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Canada contingent |
| Christie | Herbert Bertram | Lieutenant | CHRISTIE, HERBERT BERTRAM, Lieutenant, was born in 1863, son of Marshall Christie. He served in the South African War as Lieutenant, New South Wales Imperial Bushmen Contingent, 1900. He was mentioned in Despatches; received the Queen's Medal with four clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 19 April, 1901]: "Herbert Bertram Christie, Lieutenant, New South Wales Imperial Bushmen. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia, etc, were sent to the Colonial Office, forwarded, as requested by Brigadier General Finn, from Sydney, and sent to Lieutenant Christie by the Governor of New South Wales 7 June, 1902. He died 9 December 1916.
DSO, QSA (4) CC Rhod OFS Trans (Lt NSW Citizen's Bushmen Corps), BWM, Victory Medal (renamed). Lovell 1978 £600.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | New South Wales contingent |
| Christophers | Edgar | Major | CHRISTOPHERS, EDGAR, Major, was born 6 March, 1860, son of Richard Rawe Christophers, of Trevithick, Cornwall. He was educated at Shrewsbury and abroad, and joined the East Kent Imperial Yeomanry in 1899, as Trooper, proceeding to South Africa in 1900. He was promoted to Corporal, Sergeant, Quartermaster-Sergeant and Sergeant-Major in 1900; to Lieutenant in 1900; Captain in 1901; Major, Second-in-Command, 12th Regiment, Imperial Yeomanry, in 1902. He was mentioned in Despatches, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 31 October 1902]: "Edgar Christophers, Major, 12th Battalion Imperial Yeomanry. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". Major Christophers returned home in command of Imperial Yeomanry details to represent the Imperial Yeomanry at the Coronation (postponed). He married, in 1889, Violet, only daughter of Richard Smyth Wallis, of Drishane Castle, Cork.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | 12th Battalion, Imperial Yeomanry |
| Chute | Pierce Thomas | Major | Chute, Pierce Thomas, Major, was born at Ballyheigul, County Kerry, 21 January 1856, eldest son of Captain Thomas Chute (late Captain, 22nd Regiment), of Glenfield, Tralee, County Kerry, and Mrs Thomas Chute. He was educated privately, and joined the 4th Foot 29 November 1876, becoming Lieutenant 13 October 1877, and Captain 7 December 1885. Captain Chute served in the Burmese Expedition, 1885-89, and received the Indian Medal of 1854, with two clasps (Burma, 1885-87). He became Major 29 July 1896. From 1899 to 1902 he served in the South African War. He was Commandant, Nilge River; operations in the Transvaal, east of Pretoria, July to 29 November 1900, including action at Rhenoster Kop; operations in the Transvaal, west of Pretoria, July to 29 November 1900; operations in Orange River Colony (May to 29 November 1900), including actions at Lindley (26 June), Bethlehem (6 and 7 July), Wittebergen (1 to 29 July); operations in Cape Colony, July 1901 to February 1902; March 1902; April to 31 May 1902. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 7 May and 10 September 1901]; received the Queen's Medal with two clasps (for Cape Colony, Transvaal and Wittebergen); the King's Medal with two clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "Pierce Thomas Chute, Major, Royal Munster Fusiliers. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia, Warrant and Statutes were sent to South Africa to Lord Kitchener, and presented by Major General E S Brook at Bethlehem 3 May 1902. Major Chute retired 21 January 1904. He served in the European War from October 1915 to January 1916, in France, and was Commanding Officer (Temporary Lieutenant Colonel) at the Depot, Royal Munster Fusiliers, July 1916 to September 1918. He was given the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Army 6 June 1916. Lieutenant Colonel Chute married, 3 July 1903, at Murree, Punjab, India, Caroline Rosia Langton, daughter of Charles Langton, JP, DL, of Barkhill, Aigburth, Liverpool.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Munster Fusiliers |
| Clark | Robert Leaver | Major | CLARK, ROBERT LEAVER, Major, was born 20 February 1862. He entered the Army as Inspector of Ordnance Machinery; became 2nd Class Inspector 1 April, 1896; (attached) 1st Class 24 January 1900. He served in the South African War, 1899-1902, taking part in the advance on Kimberley; during operations in the Transvaal, west of Pretoria, July to 29 November 1900; during operations in Orange River Colony, May to November 1900; in the operations in Cape Colony, south of Orange River, 1899-1900; during operations in the Transvaal 30 November 1900 to September 1901, and October 1901 to 31 May 1902; in the operations in Cape Colony, September and October 1901. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 10 September 1901, and 29 July 1902]; awarded 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]: "Robert Leaver Clark, Inspector of Ordnance Machinery, 1st Class, and Honorary Major AOD. In recognition of services in the operations in South Africa". The Insignia were presented by the King 18 December 1902. He was promoted to Chief Inspector 1 August 1907. He served during the European War; became Lieutenant Colonel 27 August 1918, and received the OBE Major Clark married, in 1914, Dorothy, eldest daughter of J E Moulton, King's Heath, Worcestershire.
DSO, OBE (1st m), QSA (3) CC OFS Trans (Maj DSO AOD), KSA (2) (Maj DSO AOD), BWM, Victory Medal with MID (Lt Col), 1911 Coronation, Order of the White Eagle (Serbia) 4th Class with swords. Private Collection July 1992.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Army Ordnance Corps |
| Clarke | Goland Vanholt | Lieutenant | CLARKE, GOLAND VANHOLT, Lieutenant, was born 25 November 1875, seventh son of Stephenson Clarke and Agnes Maria Clarke, of Brook House, West Hoathley, and Croydon Lodge, Croydon. He entered the 1st Dragoon Guards 25 March, 1896, and was transferred to the 18th Hussars 13 January 1897. He served in the South African War, 1899-1902, taking part in the operations in Natal, 1899, including actions at Talana and Lombard's Kop; was present at the Defence of Ladysmith, including sorties of 7 December 1899, and action of 6 January 1900; was present during the operations in Natal, March to June, 1900, including action at Laing's Nek (6 and 9 June); in the Transvaal, east of Pretoria, July to 29 November 1900, including actions at Belfast (26 to 27 August) and Lydenberg (5 to 8 September); again in the Transvaal 30 November 1900 to September 1901, and November 1901 to 31 May 1902; in Orange River Colony, March to May 1902; also during the operations on the Zululand Frontier of Natal in September and October 1901. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 10 September 1901, and 25 April, 1902]; was 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, 28 January 1902]: "Goland Vanholt Clarke, Lieutenant, 18th Hussars. For good service in Bruce Hamilton's operations in Ermelo District in December 1901". He was invested by the King 24 October 1902. He resigned from the 18th Hussars in 1907, and became Captain, City of London Yeomanry, Rough Riders, 1 January 1910. He served in the European War from April, 1915, when he went out to Egypt with the Rough Riders. He was made Temporary Lieutenant Colonel, June, 1915. He served with the Yeomanry in Gallipoli, and was present at the Charge of Chocolate Hill, September 1915. He commanded a mobile column in the desert in 1916; was at Salonika in 1916 and 1917, and was given the Brevet of Lieutenant Colonel for his services 1 January 1917; was promoted Lieutenant Colonel, September 1917, and Brigadier General, December 1917; in Palestine, 1917 and 1918. Brigadier General Clarke was mentioned in Sir Ian Hamilton's, Sir Archibald Murray's and Sir E Allenby's Despatches, and in the New Year's Honours of 1917. He married (1stly), Mathilde, daughter of Colonel Key Hannigan, of New York (she died in 1912), and (secondly), in January 1918, Yvonne, only child of Monsieur Defrance, French Minister at Cairo.
CMG, DSO, QSA (5) Tal DofL OFS LN Belf (Lt DSO 18 Hussars), KSA (2), 1914-15 Star (City of London Yeomanry), BWM, Victory Medal with MID (Brig Gen). Spinks 1983 £1250. Sotheby's 1990 £1100. Burman Mar 05 £3,650. Liverpool Nov 05 £4,500.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | 18th (Victoria Mary, Prince of Wales's Own) Hussar |
| Clarke | Lancelot Fox | Major | CLARKE, LANCELOT FOX, Major, was born 15 June 1858. He served in the South African War, 1900-02, with the Victorian Imperial Regiment, Rhodesian Field Force. OCN, Western Districts; and as Administrator, No 13 Martial Law Area, Cape Colony District. He served in Command of 4th Victorian Mounted Rifles 23 February to 23 June, 1901, and took part in operations in the Transvaal. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 23 April, 1901], received the King's Medal with two clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 23 April, 1901]: "Lancelot Fox Clarke, Major, Victorian Bushmen. For able command in operations against De Wet. Dated 23 April, 1901". The Insignia were presented to him in South Africa. He became Colonel, commanding the 91st Infantry (Tasmanian Rangers), Commonwealth Military Forces. Colonel Clarke married, in 1889, Marion (who died in 1906), daughter of John Young and widow of Arthur Gilbert.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Victoria contingent |
| Clayhills | George | Lieutenant | CLAYHILLS, GEORGE, Lieutenant, was born at Darlington 24 July 1878, fourth son of Thomas Clayhills, of Invergowrie, Forfarshire, and Thornton-le-Moor, Yorkshire, by his wife, Elizabeth, daughter of John Rob, of Catton, Yorkshire. He was educated at Cheltenham College, and Trinity Hall, Cambridge. He received his commission, and joined the 4th Battalion of the Cheshire Regiment 8 September 1896, from which he was gazetted Second Lieutenant, 1st Battalion East Lancashire Regiment, 4 January 1899; and was promoted Lieutenant, 4 June 1900, and Captain, 8 February 1908; and was Adjutant of his regiment from April 1906 to April 1909. He went with his regiment to South Africa, and served with the 8th Mounted Infantry during the war, 1900-2, and took part in the operations at Paardeberg, and actions at Poplar Grove, Driefontein, Karee Siding, Vet River and Zand River, and engagements near Johannesburg and Pretoria; operations in the Transvaal and Orange River Colony from November 1900, to the end of the war. He was twice mentioned in Despatches (by Lords Roberts and Kitchener) [London Gazette, 10 September 1901, and 17 January 1902]; received the Queen's Medal with four clasps, and the King's Medal with two clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 31 October 1902]: "George Clayhills, Lieutenant, The East Lancashire Regiment. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". He was Adjutant, East Lancashire Regiment, from April, 1906 to April 1909, and became Captain 8 February 1908. On the outbreak of the European War he left with his regiment for the Front in August 1914, and served in France and Flanders, taking part in the Retreat from Mons, the Battles of the Marne and the Aisne. Miss Clayhills writes: "George led an attack and cleared a wood in a very fine way, 31 October . . . There is an account in Conan Doyle's book of a fight the 1st East Lancashire Regiment did well in, and Colonel Lawrence wrote that my brother led his company so well that day that he forwarded his name for mention in Despatches. It never appeared—I was told so many were killed about that time that the names of nearly all the fallen were cut out". The following is Conan Doyle's account: 'The British Campaign in France and Flanders, 1914' (page 229): "La Bassee-Armentieres operations on 21 October—The Germans crossed the River Lys in considerable force, and upon the morning of the 22nd they succeeded in occupying the village of Le Gheir upon the western side, thus threatening to outflank the positions of the 2nd Cavalry Division to the north. In their advance in the early morning of the 22nd they stormed the trenches held by the 2nd Inniskilling Fusiliers, this regiment enduring considerable loss. The trenches on the right were held by the 1st Loyal Lancasters and 2nd Lancashire Fusiliers. These two regiments were at once ordered by General Aulay of the 12th Brigade to initiate a counter-attack under the lead of Colonel Buller. Aulay himself, who is a hard-bitten soldier, moved forward his men, while General Hunter Weston, the indefatigable blower-up of railway lines in South Africa, supported the counter-attack with the Somerset Light Infantry and the 1st East Lancashire Regiment. The latter regiment, under Colonel Lawrence, passed through a wood and reached such a position that they were able to enfilade the Germans in the open, causing them very heavy losses. The action was a brilliant success. The positions lost were reoccupied and the enemy severely punished; over a thousand Germans were killed and wounded, while 300 were taken prisoners. These belonged to the 104th and 179th Saxon Regiments". Captain Clayhills was killed in action at the First Battle of Ypres, 2 November 1914, near Armentieres, and was buried about three miles north of that town and one mile east of the Ploegsteert-Ie-Chair Road. Captain Clayhills was a good all-round sportsman, a good rider, fond of hunting, shooting and cricket, and, in fact, all games and sport. Three of his great-uncles fought at Waterloo; his grandfather was in the Navy guarding the Channel at the time.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | East Lancashire Regiment |
| Clegg-Hill | Charles Rowland | Lieutenant | CLEGG-HILL, THE HONOURABLE CHARLES ROWLAND, Lieutenant, son of the 3rd Viscount Hill, was born 5 May 1876. He was gazetted to the Royal Welsh Fusiliers 9 December 1896, and became Lieutenant 25 February 1900. He served in the South African War, 189U-1902, employed with Mounted Infantry (slightly wounded). Served as Adjutant, 1st Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers (from 1 February 1901); was present at the Relief of Kimberley; took part in the operations in the Orange Free State, February to May 1900, including those at Paardeberg 17 to 26 February; actions at Poplar Grove, Driefontein, Houtnek (Thoba Mountain) and Zand River; served during operations in the Transvaal in May and June, 1900, including actions near Johannesburg, Pretoria and Diamond Hill 11 and 12 June; in Orange River Colony, including actions at Wittebergen 1 to 29 July; in Cape Colony, south of Orange River, 1899-1900, including actions at Colesberg, 1 January to 8 February; again in the Transvaal 30 November 1900 to September 1901; also in Orange River Colony, September 1901 to 31 May 1902 (Despatches [London Gazette, 4 May 1900, and 10 September 1901 ]; Queen's Medal with six clasps, and King's Medal with two clasps). He was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "The Honourable Charles Rowland Clegg-Hill, Lieutenant, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". (Invested by the King 18 December 1902.) He was promoted to Captain 8 February 1908, and was Adjutant, Militia, 1 September 1904 to 9 July 1908; and Adjutant, Territorial Force, from 10 July 1908. He retired from the Royal Welsh Fusiliers 6 November 1912. He became Major, Reserve of Officers, 3rd Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers 1 September 1915, and was given the Brevet of Lieutenant Colonel 3 June, 1919. He married, in 1903, Mildred, daughter of Thomas Bulteel, of Radford, South Devon, and they had two sons.
DSO, QSA (6) RofK Paard Drief Joh D-H Witt, KSA (2), 1914 Star and Bar, BWM, Victory Medal with MID, Defence Medal, 1953 Coronation, Croix de Guerre (France). Regimental Museum 1992.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Welsh Fusiliers |
| Clementi-Smith | Eugene | Lieutenant | CLEMENTI-SMITH, EUGENE, Lieutenant, was born 3 December 1847, at the Rectory, Buckhurst Hill, Chigwell, Essex, eighth son of the Reverend John Smith, MA, Rector of Buckhurst Hill, and Cecilia Susanna Clementi, daughter of Muzio Clementi. He was educated at St Paul's School, London, and joined the Winnipeg Field Battery in 1871, and in 1872 "undertook the reorganization of the Manitoba Rifle Association, and was-elected the first vice-president and chief executive officer, in which capacity he served till he left Winnipeg for the North-West Territories in 1878. In 1874 he won the championship of his province, and in 1875 the Governor-General's (Lord Dufferin) silver medal and the gold medal, of the DAG" ('Volunteer Record',5 October 1895). Captain Clementi-Smith was High Commissioner (HM Civil Service), and JP of Brandon, Manitoba, where, in 1882 he again organized a Rifle Association, of which he was elected president, and in which he won grand aggregate medals in 1884 and 1885. In the latter year he was instrumental in assisting to raise the Manitoba Grenadier Regiment for active service, under General Middleton, in the Reil Rebellion, and in this regiment he held the commission of First Lieutenant, and served throughout the campaign, receiving the War Medal (NW Canada) in recognition of his services. He was mentioned in General Middleton's Despatches, 1887; returned to England and in 1890 joined the Middlesex Yeomanry, having passed the Hythe School to qualify for the position of Instructor of Musketry to the corps. While connected with the regiment he took part in most of the National Rifle Association's meetings at Bisley, where for several years in succession, he shot his way into the 'Queen's Hundred'. He also shot at Darnley, Altcar and Belfast, winning many cups and medals. He was champion of the South London Rifle Club in 1895, 1896, 1897 and 1898, and on the 30th April of the last-named year he made a record score in a friendly match on the Runnemede Range—the highest possible at 200, 500 and 600 yards, 21 bull's-eyes in all. As Honourable Secretary to the Middlesex Rifle Association for six years, his work should not be forgotten. From a state of bankruptcy he raised the Association to a sound financial position, with a large credit balance. During the last two years he freely bestowed his time and skill on the coaching of recruits, personally superintending the weekly 'spoon shoots' at Bisley, which he organized in connection with the Association. On 27 February 1901, he was gazetted as a Second Lieutenant in the Imperial Yeomanry, sailing for the front on 8 March, with the temporary rank of Captain and Adjutant. He was attached to the 8th Division (General Rundle), and remained on active service till his death. His work was so successful that on one occasion in June a complimentary message was heliographed from Lord Kitchener, and was followed by a personal interview with General Rundle, who said: "I have heard a great deal about your exploits and the keen interest you take in all your military duties. I have wanted to see you and thank you for your work at Bethlehem. I have consulted with Colonel Firman, and intend to give you a much freer hand in future, and you will have a party of Scouts, the selection being in your hands. I hope to increase your command in the near future". It was while leading 'Clementi's Scouts'(nearly all Middlesex men) on trek from Bethlehem to Harrismith, and defending a position that was being attacked, that Captain Clementi-Smith received, on 11 September, the severe wound in the right shoulder which afterwards proved fatal. He died 4 October 1901, aged 54. In the London Gazette of 11 October 1901, is the announcement of his creation to a Companionship of the Distinguished Service Order: "Eugene Clementi-Smith, Lieutenant, Imperial Yeomanry. For extreme gallantry in action at Harrismith (since died of wounds)". In Lord Kitchener's Despatch, published in the 'Times' of Wednesday, 4 December, there is the following paragraph: "11th Imperial Yeomanry.— Lieutenant E Clementi-Smith (since died of wounds), on 11 September 1901, in Harrismith district, advanced alone to occupy a position Boers were making for, and though wounded through right shoulder, continued to fire from left, keeping enemy off till he was reinforced. Awarded DSO by War Office Telegram No. 9599, dated 9 October 1901". His father was formerly Head Master of Mercers' School and Chaplain of the Company. Lieutenant Clementi-Smith was educated at the Mercers' School, and his brother, the Reverend P Clementi-Smith (Rector of St Andrew's Church, Doctors' Commons, London), as House Warden of the Mercers' Company, had the responsibility of arranging for the Memorial erected by the Mercers' Company in their Chapel to Lieutenant Clementi-Smith, Lieutenant J S Watney and Private F J Dubois. The NRA have gold, silver and bronze medals which are shot for annually, as a memorial of Lieutenant Clementi-Smith's work in the interests of rifle-shooting. He married, on 23 November 1881, at St Jude's Church, Southsea, Wilhelmina Maria Barnes, daughter of James Barnes, and their daughter was Lilian Clementi, born at Brandon, Manitoba, Canada, 28 August 1883. She married Major A M Matthews, RGA.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Imperial Yeomanry |
| Clerke | Albert William | Captain | CLERKE, ALBERT WILLIAM, Captain, joined the 9th Battalion King's Royal Rifle Corps, and served in the South African War, 1900-1, as Commandant, Viljoen's Drift, taking part in operations in the Orange Free State, April to May 1900; operations in Orange River Colony, May 1900 to 29 November 1900; operations in Cape Colony, south of Orange River, February to April, 1900; operations in the Transvaal, May and June, 1901; operations in Orange River Colony 30 November 1900 to May 1901. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 10 September 1901]; received the Queen's Medal with four clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 September 1901]: "Albert William Clerke, Captain, King's Royal Rifle Corps. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia were presented by the King 29 October 1901. He retired from the 9th Battalion King's Royal Rifle Corps, and became Major, 3rd (Reserve) Battalion Royal Munster Fusiliers. Major Clerke married, in 1894, Emily Daly.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | King's Royal Rifle Corps |
| Clifford | Ernest Stanley | Lieutenant | CLIFFORD, ERNEST STANLEY, Lieutenant Colonel, was born 25 December 1873, son of S La Poer Trench Clifford, Divisional Judge, India. He served in South Africa, 1899-1902, with the Imperial Light Horse; Lumsden's Horse, West Australians; 5th and 6th, and General Sir Walter Kitchener's Staff. He was mentioned in Despatches; received the Queen's Medal with clasps; the King's Medal with clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 28 January 1902]: "Ernest Stanley Clifford, Lieutenant, West Australian Mounted Infantry. For good service in Bruce Hamilton's operations in Ermelo District in December 1901". In the European War Major Clifford went out with the 1st Canadian Division, October 1914, on Headquarters Staff, as Assistant Provost-Marshal, in 1915, with 1st Canadian Division. He was mentioned in Despatches, May 1915, and 1917; promoted Lieutenant Colonel 3 June 1918. Lieutenant Colonel Clifford is married, and had one son.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | West Australia contingent |
| Clifford | Wigram | Lieutenant | CLIFFORD, WIGRAM, Lieutenant, was born 20 February 1876, son of Major General R M Clifford; was educated at US College, Westward Ho! and the Royal Military College, Sandhurst; joined the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment, as Second Lieutenant, 25 March, 1891); became Lieutenant 16 April 1899; served in South Africa, 1899-1901; was present at the Defence of Kimberley (slightly wounded; Despatches, 8 May 1900; created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 19 April, 1901]: "Wigram Clifford, Lieutenant, North Lancashire Regiment. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia were sent to the Commander-in-Chief in South Africa, and Lord Kitchener was asked to return it. It was presented by HM the King 25 July 1901. He was promoted Captain, Northumberland Fusiliers, 12 October 1901. He served on the North-West Frontier of India, 1908; took part in the Mohmand Expedition (Medal with clasp); became Adjutant, Indian Volunteers, 17 August 1912 to 1915. He served in the European War, 1914 to 1918, and was promoted Major, Northumberland Fusiliers, 1 September 1915. He married Eva, youngest daughter of Major T C Miles.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Loyal North Lancashire Regiment |
| Clowes | Ernest William | Captain | CLOWES, ERNEST WILLIAM, Captain, was born 11 January 1869, in London, son of Samuel William Clowes, of Norbury, Derbyshire, and of Broughton Hall, Lancashire. He was educated at Eton, and joined the 1st Life Guards, 30 July 1890; was promoted to Lieutenant 2 September 1891, and Captain 14 March, 1896. Captain Clowes served in the South African War, 1899-1900, and was present at the Relief of Kimberley; operations in the Orange Free State, February to May 1900, including operations at Paardeberg (17 to 20 February), actions at Poplar Grove, Driefontein, Houtnek (Thoba Mountain), Vet River (3 and 6 May) and Zand River; operations in the Transvaal in May and June, 1900, including actions near Johannesburg, Pretoria and Diamond Hill (11 and 12 June); operations in the Transvaal, west of Pretoria, including action at Eland's River (4 to 16 August); operations in Orange River Colony in 1900, including actions at Bethlehem and Wittebergen (15 to 29 July); operations in Cape Colony, south of Orange River, 1898 to 1900, including actions at Colesberg (5 January to 2 February). He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 10 September 1901]; received the Queen's Medal with six clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 November 1901]: "Ernest William Clowes, Captain, 1st Life Guards. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia were presented by the King 17 December 1901. Captain Clowes resigned his commission in July 1904. Major Clowes rejoined the Reserve Regiment, 1st Life Guards, in August 1914, and served until demobilized in January 1919. He was promoted Major in 1915. Extract from Regimental Orders: "Hyde Park Barracks, SW, 2 September 1919. The names of the undermentioned have been brought to the notice of the Secretary of State for War, for valuable services rendered in connection with the war: Major E W Clowes, DSO". He married, on 1 June, 1909, at St Peter's, Eaton Square, Blanche, daughter of Admiral the Honourable A Lyttelton and Lady Margaret Lyttelton, and they had two sons: John Ernest, born 7 November 1910, and Henry Nelson, born 21 October 1911.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Life Guards |
| Coates | Henry Wise Unett | Captain | COATES, HENRY WISE UNETT, Captain, was born 3 December 1865, at Rockhampton, Gloucestershire, son of the Reverend W U Coates, of The Cottage, Hill, Falfield, Gloucestershire. He was educated at Marlborough College; received his first commission in the Bedfordshire Regiment 7 February 1885; was promoted Captain 1 February 1893; was Adjutant, 4th Battalion, 16 February 1895 to 15 June, 1901. He served in the South African War, 1899-1902; as Staff Officer to Commandant, Fourteen Streams, 29 May to 25 June, 1900; afterwards Garrison Adjutant, Mafeking, 29 June to 13 August 1900, and 4 September 1900; served as Adjutant, 4th Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment; during operations in the Orange Free State, May 1900; during operations in the Transvaal, west of Pretoria, August and September 1900; during operations in Cape Colony, north and south of Orange River. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 10 September 1901], received the Queen's Medal and three clasps; the King's Medal and two clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order [London Gazette, 27 Sept, 1901]: "Henry Wise Unett Coates, Captain, Bedfordshire Regiment. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia and Warrant were sent to the GOC, Transvaal, 3 February 1903; were presented by the King 12 June, 1903. He was promoted Major 5 April, 1903, subsequently becoming Lieutenant Colonel. He married, 28 December 1895, Eleanor Alice, daughter of D T Surgeon General A Rudge, of The Town, Compton, Plymouth.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Bedfordshire Regiment |
| Coates | Reginald Carlyon | Captain | COATES, REGINALD CARLYON, Captain, was born 13 October 1869, son of the Reverend G A A Coates, Earls Croome, Worcester. He entered the RA 15 February 1889. becoming Lieutenant 15 February 1892, and Captain 25 May 1899. He served in the South African War, 1899-1902, and was present at the Relief of Ladysmith, including 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 Natal (March to June, 1900), including action at Laing's Nek (6 to 9 June); operations in the Transvaal, east of Pretoria, 1 July to 29 November 1900, including actions at Belfast (20 and 27 August) and Lydenburg (5 to 8 September); operations in the Transvaal and Orange River Colony 30 November 1900 to 31 May 1902. He was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 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]: "Reginald Carlyon Coates, Captain, Royal Horse and Royal Field Artillery. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". He was promoted to Major 1 November 1904. Major Coates served in the European War from 1914, and was wounded; he became Lieutenant Colonel 30 October 1914; was Temporary Brigadier General, RA, 61st Division, Central Force, Home Defence, British Armies in France, 19 April 1916 to 21 April, 1917. Lieutenant Colonel R C Coates married, in 1903, Alice Maud, daughter of General Sir Henry Daly.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | Royal Artillery |
| Coats | Andrew | Captain | COATS, ANDREW, Captain, was born 27 May 1862, at Ferguslie House, Paisley, son of Thomas Coats, Thread Manufacturer, of Ferguslie, Paisley, and Margaret, daughter of Thomas Glen, of Thornhill, Johnstone. He was educated at the Grammar School, Paisley, and at Glasgow University, and joined the Queen's Own Glasgow Yeomanry in 1888, and remained in it till the South African War, when he joined the Imperial Yeomanry 7 February 1900, and served as Captain with the 6th Scottish Regiment, Imperial Yeomanry, February 1900 to May 1901, during which time he trekked 4,500 miles. He served at Wittebergen and in the Transvaal and Cape Colony. He 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]: "Andrew Coats, Captain, 6th Battalion Imperial Yeomanry. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". The Insignia were presented by the King 17 December 1901. Major Coats married, in 1903, Isabella Alice, daughter of Captain Lyon, RN, of Kirkmichael, Dumfriesshire.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | 6th Battalion, Imperial Yeomanry |
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