Douglas | James Sholto Gordon | | Captain | DOUGLAS, JAMES SHOLTO GORDON, Captain, was born at Walmer, Kent, 2 May 1872, son of Admiral and Mrs R Gordon Douglas, of Seafield. He was educated at Ascham School, Bournemouth, and at the Royal Academy, Gosport, and joined the Cape Royal Riflemen in 1893. When the South African War began, he joined 1st Brabant's Horse in 1899, and was transferred to the South African Constabulary. He served in the South African War, 1899-1902; was mentioned in Despatches [London Gazette, 16 April, 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, 19 April, 1901]: "James Sholto Gordon Douglas, Captain, South African Constabulary. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa". He was promoted to Major in 1902. He served with the South African Constabulary, with the Transvaal Police and the South African Police. He was appointed Deputy Commissioner in command of the South African Police, Johannesburg, from 1908, and became, during the European War, Lieutenant Colonel Commanding No 8 Military District, Union of South Africa, 1915. Major Douglas married, in 1902, Mabel Kate, eldest daughter of Captain J O'Donnell, late 16th Lancers, and they had one son.
Source: DSO recipients (VC and DSO Book) | South African Constabulary |