Country: UK:
Issued on: n/a
Dates of awards/presentations: awarded each month
Number issued: 93 (8 silver; 85 bronze)
Silver/Bronze Royal Humane Society Medals, to:
15/01/1900 awards
2nd Bn. Royal Irish Fusiliers –
3654 Private T. CONNOLLY (Bronze; Bushman's River, Estcourt, 28/11/1899)
"On the 28th November 1899, Private H.Figg, of the Royal Fusiliers, was bathing in the Bushman’s River, at Escourt, Natal, when he was carried away by the strong current. At great risk, Connolly plunged in fully clothed and rescued him".
2nd Bn. Royal Irish Fusiliers –
2989 Private Peter O'CONNOR (Bronze; Bushman's River, Estcourt, 28/11/1899)
"On the 28th November 1899, a private in the Royal Scots Fusiliers sank in 20 feet of water while bathing in the Bushman’s River, at Escourt, Natal. O’Connor made a daring attempt to save him but failed. On the same day Sergt. Bennett, of the Royal Fusiliers, also sank while bathing. Again O’Connor dived, but could not find him, and he also drowned".
15/02/1900 awards
H.M. Transport "Majestic" –
Butcher's Mate Ilted John MORRIS (Bronze; H.M.T. Majestic, Southampton, 13/12/1899)
"On the 13th December 1899, Private W.Cooper, Somerset Light Infantry, fell overboard from the SS Majestic, when leaving Liverpool for South Africa. Morris at once sprang in and, at great risk, supported Cooper till they were picked up".
15/03/1900 awards
Royal Army Medical Corps –
11755 Private J. PAULIZKY [Paulizsky] (Bronze; Modder River, 03/02/1900)
"On the 3rd February 1900, Private Maples, East Kent Regiment, was knocked into the Modder River, South Africa, by a restive horse, the depth being 16 feet, with a very strong current. Paulizsky jumped in fully clothed and succeeded in landing him".
16th Lancers –
4389 Private F. MOSLEY (Bronze; Modder River, 31/01/1900)
"On the 31st January 1900, Private F.Bartley, 16th Lancers, was bathing in the Modder River, South Africa, and got into difficulties. Private Bryant and Lance-Corporal Priest swam out, but were unable to save him. Mosley then swam out and managed to bring Bartley to the bank.
Testimonials on vellum to Bryant and Priest".
H.M. Transport "Assaye" –
Third Officer W.P. TOWNSHEND [Townshead] (Bronze; Cape Town Harbour, 23/01/1900)
"On the 23rd January 1900, Private J.Bannard, of the Hampshire regiment, fell overboard from the SS Assaye in the harbour at Cape Town. Townshead plunged in, but although he dived several times Bannard could not be found and was drowned".
18/04/1900 awards
6th Bn. Royal Warwickshire Regiment –
???? Private J. RYALL (Bronze; Simonstown, 14/02/1900)
"On the 14th February 1900, Private J.Kitson, of the same battalion, was bathing in the sea at Simons Town, South Africa, and was carried out into deep water. At great risk, Ryall swam out and succeeded in bringing him in much exhausted".
Civilian Transport Contractor –
Mr I. WILSON [J. Wilson] (Bronze; Klip River, Ladysmith, 06/01/1900)
"On the 6th January 1900, 2nd Lieut. A.R.Harman, Rifle Brigade, in an attempt to cross the Klip River at Ladysmith, was swept away by the current. Wilson plunged in and managed to effect the rescue".
18/05/1900 awards
6th Iniskilling Dragoon Guards –
Lieutenant Neil Wolseley HAIG (Silver; Alleman's Drift, Orange River, 15/03/1900)
Group of nine awarded to Brigadier-General N. W. Haig, 6th Dragoons
6th Iniskilling Dragoon Guards –
Lieutenant J. HARRIS (Silver; Alleman's Drift, Orange River, 15/03/1900)
3444 Sergeant T. WILLIAMS (Silver; Alleman's Drift, Orange River, 15/03/1900)
"On the 15th of March, 1900, a squadron of the 6th (Iniskilling) Dragoons was ordered to cross the Orange River at Alleman’s Drift. Finding it impossible owing to the flooded state of the river to cross with their horses, Lieutenant N.W. Haig, Lieutenant J. Harris and Sergeant Williams, with Lieutenant A.J.G. Meek and Second Lieutenant F.N. Dent swam across, and after resting some time were returning, when about halfway back Lieutenant Meek became exhausted and called for help. Lieutenant Haig, who had reached the bank, at once returned to his assistance, and was successful in landing him.
About the same time Second Lieutenant Dent was in difficulties in midstream, and Sergeant Williams, seeing the danger, went to his help, reaching him after he had gone under twice. Finding that he could not in his exhausted state take him to the bank, Williams called for further help, and Lieutenant Harris, who had got across, again plunged in, but failed to reach Dent, who was carried away and drowned; Sergeant Williams had great difficulty in reaching the bank.
Extreme risk was incurred, the river being in flood and full of eddies and dangerous whirlpools".
Natal Carbineers –
603 Trooper D.G. SCLANDERS (Silver; Trichardt's Drift, 17/01/1900)
13th Hussars –
Captain John H. TREMAYNE (Bronze; Trichardt's Drift, 17/01/1900)
Lieutenant F.H. WISE (Bronze; Trichardt's Drift, 17/01/1900)
Royal Artillery –
Major F.E. COOPER (Bronze; Trichardt's Drift, 17/01/1900)
Durham Light Infantry –
Captain L. PARKE (Bronze; Trichardt's Drift, 17/01/1900)
Natal Mounted Police –
2367 Trooper G. RODDY (Bronze; Trichardt's Drift, 17/01/1900)
"About 2 p.m. on the 17th January, 1900, the 13th Hussars were crossing the Tugela River at Trichard’s Drift in face of the enemy. The Tugela is some seventy-five yards wide at this point, the depth varying from six to twenty-five feet, and the current strong. Some of the cavalry horses became nervous in crossing, a number of them being swept down the stream. Trooper G. Roddy, Natal Mounted Police, attempted to save a man, who had got separated from his horse, but failed, and had to be assisted to land. Captain J.H. Tremayne of the 13th Hussars, also went to the man’s help; but failing to reach him got into difficulty himself, and was only saved by Trooper D.G. Sclanders, Natal Carbineers, swimming out, and with the assistance of Major F.E. Cooper, R.A., and Captain L. Parke, Durham Light Infantry, bringing him back to the bank in an unconscious state. At the same time and place Lieutenant F.H. Wise, 13th Hussars, saved Private Prince, who was among those who had been carried away.
Great risk was incurred by all the above named, especially by Trooper Sclanders, who was breathless and exhausted from his efforts in saving other men when he went to the rescue of Captain Tremayne.
The silver Medal was voted to Trooper Sclanders, and Bronze Medals to Major F.E. Cooper, Captain J.H. Tremayne, Captain L. Parke, Lieutenant F.H. Wise, and Trooper G. Roddy".
2nd Bn. Royal Scots Fusiliers –
2527 Private Henry HINKS (Bronze; Bushman's River, Estcourt, 28/11/1899)
"On the 28th November 1899, Private Dawson, of the same battalion, was bathing in the Bushmans River at Escort, Natal, and got into deep water. Hinks went in and, at great risk, attempted to save him but failed, and Dawson was drowned".
15/06/1900 awards
H.M.Transport "Umbria" –
Fireman Joseph J. BARNES (H.M.T. Umbria, Queenstown, 26/03/1900)
"On the 26th March 1900, while the transport Umbria was leaving Queenstown with troops, Private Thompson, Durham Light Infantry, fell overboard. A seaman from HMS Howe jumped in, but became exhausted, and could not save him. Barnes, fireman on the steamer, at great risk, sprang in and rescued both men".
21/06/1900 awards (supplementary list)
1st Bn. Rifle Brigade –
165 Private James WOODLEY (Bronze; Elandslaagte, 02/05/1900)
"On the 2nd May 1900, Private W.Russell, of the same battalion, while washing at Elandslaagte, Natal, slipped and fell into the stream, which was muddy and full of weeds with steep banks. Woodley, at great risk, dived in, and at the third attempt caught him and rescued him".
South African Light Horse –
1024 Trooper Reginald HOWELL (Bronze; Potgieter’s Drift, 11/01/1900)
Presentation made by Lord Roberts at Cape Town, on 10 Dec 1900.
"On the 11th January 1900, Corporal Barkley, South African Light Horse, while trying to swim across the Tugela, took cramp, and was carried away by the strong current. At great risk, they being under fire at the time, Howell plunged in, and having caught him managed to reach the bank in safety".
2nd New Zealand Mounted Rifles –
521 Private W. CASSIDY (Bronze; Hartebeest River, Kenhardt, Cape Colony, 01/04/1900)
Presentation made by Lord Roberts during the annexation ceremony at Pretoria, on 25 Oct 1900.
"On the 1st April 1900, Lieut. Findlay, New Zealand Mounted Infantry, in trying to cross the Hartebeest River at Kenhardt, Cape Colony, was washed away by the current. At great risk, Cassidy went to his help, and with much difficulty succeeded in landing him".
16/07/1900 awards
Thorneycroft's Mounted Infantry –
Lieutenant R.T. BARRETT (Bronze; Modder Spruit River, 07/04/1900)
Killed in action 20 Sep 1901.
"On the 7th April 1900, Private Chester, Thornycroft’s Mounted Infantry, while watering his horse on the Modder Spruit River, South Africa, got in too far, and both horse and man sank in a deep hole. Barrett plunged in, and was successful in taking him to the bank and landing him".
16/08/1900 awards
2nd Bn. Scottish Rifles –
5224 Corporal Arthur Robert COUSINS (Bronze; Potgieter’s Drift, 16/01/1900)
"On the 16th January 1900, Corpl. J Carr, of the same battalion, was carried away by the current while crossing the Tugela River in South Africa. At great risk, Cousins swam out and succeeded in saving him".
15/10/1900 awards
H.M.S. Thetis –
Petty Officer Robert William MARTIN (Bronze; Durban Harbour, 20/04/1900)
Group of five awarded to Chief Gunner R. W. Martin, Royal Navy
"At 10.30 p.m. on 20th April 1900 in Durban Harbour, T. Conneely (a stoker of H.M.S. Thetis) fell overboard from the ship, 400 yards from the shore, into water 21 feet deep. Sharks infest the harbour. Robert Martin, Petty Officer of H.M.S. Thetis, jumped in and supported Conneely till a rope was thrown and he was taken to the gangway". (R.H.S. Case no. 30,839)
H.M. Transport "Tagus" –
4th Officer Louis H.J. TINNEY (Silver; at sea, 19/06/1900)
2nd Bn. West Yorkshire Regiment –
5703 Private R. HAMILTON (Silver; at sea, 19/06/1900) Died of disease, Standerton, 02 Mar 1901
"At 3.30 p.m. on the 19th June, 1900, the hired Transport ‘Tagus’, carrying troops from England to South Africa, was in lat. 4, long. 15, when one of the crew, named Dawkins, accidentally fell overboard. Instantly the cry “man overboard” was raised, and a lifebuoy was thrown to him, while a boat in charge of the fourth officer was got ready for lowering as soon as the propeller ceased working. When this was done and the boat in the water, the propeller suddenly started working, and the boat being drawn under, was smashed to pieces, one of the crew named Nixon being badly cut, and owing to loss of blood, unable to retain his hold of the wreckage of the boat.
The officer in charge, Louis H.J. Tinney, at once swam to his help, and Private Robert Hamilton, 2nd Battalion West Yorkshire Regiment, jumped overboard and assisted in supporting him till they were picked up by another boat which put off from the ship.
Extreme risk was incurred, not only from the rough sea and moving propeller, but from sharks, which infest that locality".
23/10/1900 awards (supplementary list)
2nd Bn. Berkshire Regiment –
4838 Private Walter DAY (a pond at Roodevval Spruit, Orange River Colony, 16/09/1900)
???? Private JONES (a pond at Roodevval Spruit, Orange River Colony, 16/09/1900)
Group of three to 4838 Private Walter Day, 2nd Bn. Berkshire Regiment. With thanks to azyeoman.
"On the 16th September 1900, J.J.Le Roux, the son of a local burgher, by holding on to the tail of a horse, was carried out some 25 yards from the bank in a pond at Roodevval Spruit, Orange River Colony. Seeing his danger, Jones and Day, who were bathing near, at once swam out, and at great risk rescued him".
25/10/1900 presentation (Pretoria)
Nesbitt's Horse –
Lieutenant A.L. HARVEY (Bronze)
Presentation made by Lord Roberts during the annexation ceremony at Pretoria, on 25 Oct 1900.
ALTHOUGH REPORTED TO HAVE BEEN PRESENTED BY LORD ROBERTS IN PRETORIA ON 25/10/1900, THE LSARS DATABASE HAS NO RECORD OF THIS AWARD
15/11/1900 awards
Natal Volunteer Ambulance Corps –
Bearer John GREGORY (Bronze; Durban beach, 11/10/1899)
"On the 11th October 1899, G.P.Dutton, while bathing in the sea at Durban, South Africa, became exhausted and was unable to land. There was a heavy surf, and the locality abounds with sharks. J.Hawksley tried to save him, but also got into difficulty. Gregory then went out, and at great risk rescued Hawksley, but Dutton drowned".
21/02/1901 awards
1st Bn King's Own Scottish Borderers –
6867 Colour Sergeant W. SIMPSON (Bronze; Riet River, O.R.C., 12/02/1900)
6684 Lance-Corporal Oliver Beaumont TAYLOR (Bronze; Riet River, O.R.C., 12/02/1900)
"On the 12th February, 1900, Private Cusack, King's Own Scottish Borderers, while bathing in the Riet River, Orange River Colony, got into difficulty fifteen yards from the bank, Taylor, at great risk, plunged in and brought him within five yards of the bank, when he became exhausted and sank. Simpson then went in, and at great risk, rescued Taylor, Cusack then being rescued from the bank".
68th Battery, Royal Field Artillery –
31373 Bombardier R.F. BARRETT (Orange River, 07/12/1900)
"On the 7th December, 1900, Trumpeter W.J. MacMillan, R.F.A. in trying to cross the Orange River, Cape Colony, was carried away by the current. At great risk, Barrett, after swimming 100 yards, caught him and brought him out. Both men were nearly starved, having been prisoners with the Boers".
21/03/1901 awards (supplementary list)
1st Bn. Royal Welsh Fusiliers –
???? Private M. CLARKE (Bronze; Mooi River, Transvaal, 23/12/1900)
"On the 23rd December, 1900, Private Williams, of the 1st Bn Royal Welsh Fusiliers, while bathing in the Mooi River, Transvaal Colony, got into deep water and sank. Clarke jumped in, and, at great risk, succeeded in rescuing him".
1st Bn. Royal Welsh Fusiliers –
2922 Lance-Corporal G. NEWNES (Bronze; Mooi River, Transvaal, 26/11/1900)
1183 Private Henry TUBBS (Bronze; Mooi River, Transvaal, 26/11/1900)
"On the 26th November, 1900, Trooper Davidson, Brabant's Horse, sank while bathing in the Mooi River, Transvaal Colony. At great risk, Tubbs and Newnes, dived in and were able to rescue him".
42nd Company, Royal Engineers –
28035 Sapper Patrick JONES (Bronze; junction of the Kaap and Crocodile Rivers, at Kaapmuiden, Transvaal, 25/10/1900)
"On the 25th October, 1900, Sapper A.J. Hunt, R.E., was bathing at the junction of the Kaap and Crocodile Rivers, Transvaal, when he took cramp and sank in 10 feet of water. At great risk Jones swam out, and diving brought him to the surface, when, with the help of Sapper Bealey, he brought him to the bank".
March or April 1901 awards
2nd Bn South Wales Borderers –
6142 Lance-Corporal [Private] Frederick Charles KUNZELMEYER (Bronze; Krugersdorp, 10/02/1901)
"On the 10th February, 1901, Private E. Grimshaw 2nd Bn. South Wales Borderers dived into a pool 12 feet deep at Krugersdorp, South Africa, and stuck in the clay at the bottom. At great risk, Kunzelmeyer, jumped in and brought him out, but life was extinct".
15/04/1901 awards
6th Iniskilling Dragoon Guards –
Captain E.C. HOLLAND (Bronze; Pongola River, 21/02/1901)
3476 Sergeant J. MOORE (Bronze; Pongola River, 21/02/1901)
2878 Private Frederick KIRBY (Bronze; Pongola River, 21/02/1901)
"At daybreak on the 21st February, 1901, two men were in an ambulance wagon crossing the Pongola River in the Transvaal when the wagon stuck fast, the river being in a state of flood with a very strong current. Holland, Moore and Kirby swam out and, at great risk, were able to rescue both men".
6th Iniskilling Dragoon Guards –
Captain [Lieutenant] G.K. ANSELL (Bronze; Pongola River, 26/02/1901)
"On the 26th February, 1901, while fording the Pongolo River, in the Transvaal, Trooper Johnson of the 6th Iniskilling Dragoons, was swept away in a strong current. Lieutenant Ansell at once swam out from the bank and at great risk, succeeded in saving him".
6th Iniskilling Dragoon Guards –
2907 Sergeant William James JUDD (Bronze; Pongola River, 03/03/1901)
"On the 3rd March, 1901, a patrol of the 6th Dragoons was crossing the Pongola River in the Transvaal when one of the troopers, with his horse, was swept away by the strong current. Judd at once plunged in, and with great difficulty and risk, managed to save the man".
58th (Berkshire) Company, 15th Bn. Imperial Yeomanry –
6146 Trooper Percy COX (Bronze; Fort Harlech, Johannesburg, 03/03/1901)
"On the 3rd March, 1901, Private McEvoy, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, got into deep water while bathing in a dam at Fort Harlech, South Africa. At great risk, Cox jumped in, and, after diving three times, succeeded in saving him".
15/05/1901 awards
6th Iniskilling Dragoon Guards –
Lieutenant Harold C. BICKFORD (Assegai River, 26/02/1901)
"On the 26th February, 1901, Private Hamilton, of the Scots Greys was swept away by the current while crossing the Assegai River, South Africa. At great risk, Bickford plunged in from the bank and succeeded in saving him".
19th Company, 6th Bn. Imperial Yeomanry –
21449 Lance-Corporal [Private] George H. MILLAR [Miller] (Silver; H.M. Transport Tagus, at sea, 12/03/1901)
"On the 12th March, 1901, the hire transport ‘Tagus’ was on her way to the Cape with troops on board. Four days after leaving St Vincent, while steaming at fifteen knots, one of the crew either fell or jumped overboard. Private G.H. Miller, 19th (Lothian) Squadron, Imperial Yeomanry, without any hesitation sprang after him, but did not succeed in overtaking him. The transport was quickly brought round, and a boat being lowered both men were picked up, after being fifteen minutes in the water. Although he did not reach his man Trooper Miller incurred great risk, three sharks being seen close to the boat as the men were being hauled in".
62nd (Middlesex) Company, 11th Bn. Imperial Yeomanry –
24392 Private Victor George TAYLOR (Bronze; H.M. Transport Tagus, St Vincent, 09/03/1901)
"On the 9th March, 1901 a man named Mackender fell overboard from the transport Tagus at St Vincent. The distance from shore was one mile; it was dark at the time, and the place is frequented by sharks. Taylor, who was on board on his way to the Cape, at great risk, sprang overboard and rescued him".
12th Royal Lancers –
4690 Corporal George Edmund FLETCHER (Bronze; Assegai River, 09/03/1901)
4423 Trooper Alexander DONALD (Bronze; Assegai River, 09/03/1901)
"At 5 a.m. on the 9th March, 1901, while a party of the 12th Royal Lancers were crossing the Assegai River, South Africa, Trooper Sharland was swept away by the current, and became parted from his horse. At great risk Fletcher and Donald went in, and succeeded in saving him in an unconscious state".
17/06/1901 awards
2nd Bn. Lancashire Fusiliers –
3667 Lance-Corporal Robert HOWARD (Bronze; Zandspruit River, Natal, 20/12/1900)
"On the 20th December, 1900, Private Ryan of the 2nd Bn Lancashire Fusiliers, was swept away while crossing the Zandspruit River, Natal. At great risk, Howard, of the same battalion, jumped in and succeeded in rescuing him".
2nd Bn. Lancashire Fusiliers –
5311 Private Michael CANNON (Bronze; Zandspruit River, Natal, 20/12/1900 [20/09/1900])
Presentation made by Major C.D. Wallington, at Wonderfontein, E. Transvaal, 06/10/1901
"On the 20th December, 1900, Private Jaques of the 2nd Bn Lancashire Fusiliers, was crossing the Zandspruit River, Natal, when he was swept away by the current. At great risk, Private M. Cannon, of the same Battalion, plunged in but failed to effect the rescue, and Jaques was drowned".
4th Bn. King’s Own (Royal Lancaster) Regiment –
6892 Private Richard HOUGHTON (Bronze; Tafelberg, Cape Colony, 08/02/1901)
"On the 8th February, 1901, a soldier, while bathing in the river at Tafelburg, Cape Colony, was carried away by the current. At great risk, Houghton, swam out and succeeded in effecting his rescue".
1st Volunteer Active Service Company, 2nd Bn. Lancashire Fusiliers –
8783 Private A.H. BROWN (Bronze; De Jager's Drift, Buffalo River, Transvaal, 27/02/1901)
"On the 27th February, 1901, Private Rogers 2nd Bn Royal Lancaster Regiment, was swept away while crossing the Buffalo River at De Jagers Drift, Transvaal, the river being in flood and 12 feet deep. At great risk, Brown, 3rd Volunteer Bn Lancashire Fusiliers, jumped in and brought him to the bank much exhausted".
1st Bn. Royal Munster Fusiliers –
6198 Private Garrett SEXTON (Bronze; Great Olifants River, 19/04/1901)
"On the 19th April, 1901, a soldier while crossing the Great Olifants River, South Africa, was swept away by the rapid current. At great risk, Sexton plunged in and succeeded in saving him".
Cape Artillery –
54 Driver A.M. TOMLINSON (Bronze; between Modder River and Jacobsdal, 21/02/1901)
"On the 21st February, 1901, two soldiers with a native were in a wagon which was capsized in a dip in the road between the Modder River and Jacobsdal, South Africa. The dip was some 30 yards wide with 10 feet of water. At great risk, Tomlinson went to their help and rescued the soldiers. The native saved himself".
Cape Police –
???? Private S.F. NELL (Bronze; Vaal River, 14/01/1901 & 16/01/1901)
"On the 14th January, 1901, a soldier was seized with cramp while bathing in the Vaal River, South Africa. Nell jumped in and rescued him. Again, on the 16th January, a constable while bathing in the river, became entangled in the weeds. Nell again went in and managed to save him".
15/07/1901 awards
3rd New Zealand Mounted Rifles –
612 Sergeant C.E. CHOLMONDELEY (Silver; East London, Natal, 06/04/1900)
607 Sergeant V.W. O'FARRELL (Bronze; East London, Natal, 06/04/1900)
635 Trooper C.E. CROSS (Bronze; East London, Natal, 06/04/1900)
Presented by Sir Joseph Ward, at Canterbury, New Zealand, on 18 Apr 1902.
"On a date between the 22nd March and 6th April, 1900, a number of men belonging to the Third New Zealand Contingent, after giving their horses a wash in the sea at East London, went out themselves for a swim, when one of them named Franks, was unable to get back. Lieutenant Walker and Trooper Harper went to his assistance, but Lieutenant Walker himself got into difficulty, while Harper, with the aid of a rope, got Franks in. Sergeant O’Farrell and Trooper Cross then went to Walker’s help. Sergeant Cholmondeley seeing them some distance out, went towards them and assisted O’Farrell into shallow water, and then going back he caught Lieutenant Walker and brought him to shore in an unconscious state. The beach where the accident took place is sandy, on which heavy seas were breaking, there being a rapid current of which the men were unaware".
"On the 6th April 1900, Lieut. W.T.Walker, 3rd New Zealand Contingent, was bathing in the sea at East London, Natal, when he became exhausted outside the breakers. O’Farrell and Cross, at great risk, swam out and brought him in much nearer to the shore and into shallow water, when others assisted in taking him to land".
15/08/1901 awards
2nd Imperial Light Horse –
Lieutenant-Colonel Duncan McKENZIE (Bronze; Compies River, E. Transvaal, 26/02/1901)
"On the 26th February, 1901, Trooper Gascoyne of the 5th Lancers, in attempting to cross the Compies River, Eastern Transvaal, was carried away by the current. Lieut-Col Duncan M'Kenzie, Major Royston, and Lieut A.L. Keogh, at great risk, by their united effort were successful in effecting his rescue. Vellum to Major Royston and Lieut Keogh".
1st Bn. Cameron Highlanders –
Captain Douglas Nathaniel Carelton Capel MIERS (Bronze; Vaal River, 08/12/1900)
"On the 8th December, 1900, Second Lieutenant R.G. Maturin, R.F.A., in attempting to swim the Vaal River in South Africa, became exhausted and sank. At great risk, Captain D.N.C.C. Miers, 1st Bn Cameron Highlanders, went in and with difficulty, succeeded in saving him".
1st Bn. Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders –
3019 Private James SMITH (Bronze; Cape Town Harbour, 20/01/1901 - presentation made by Colonel Trotter at Stirling Castle on 23/01/1902)
"On the 20th January, 1900, a sailor belonging to the Transport Jelunga, fell into the harbour at Cape Town. Smith, who was suffering from a wound received at Modder River, at great risk, went in and rescued him".
22/08/1901 awards (supplementary list)
36th (West Kent) Company, 9th Bn. Imperial Yeomanry –
7525 Trooper Bernard PITT [R.B. Pitt] (Bronze; Mopedi River, Clocolan, 02/04/1901)
7552 Trooper Horace George WILLIAMS (Bronze; Mopedi River, Clocolan, 02/04/1901)
"On the 2nd April, 1901, Trooper Kennard, Imperial Yeomanry, was swept away while attempting to cross the river at Clocolan, South Africa. Well knowing the danger, Pitt went to his assistance but could not save him and also got into danger. Williams then went in and succeeded in rescuing Pitt, but Kennard was carried away and drowned".
1st Bn. South Staffordshire Regiment –
5189 Lance-Corporal H. HUSTON [J. Huston] (Bronze; Caledon River, O.R.C., 18/03/1901)
5590 Private J. JOYCE (Bronze; Caledon River, O.R.C., 18/03/1901) Killed in action, 25 Sep 1901.
"On the 18th March, 1901, Private A.C. French, 1st Bn South Staffordshire Regiment, got into the Caledon River, Orange River Colony. The river was in strong flood and very dangerous. At great risk, Huston and Joyce plunged in but were unable to effect the rescue, and French was drowned".
21/10/1901 awards (supplementary list)
6th Bn Royal Warwick Regiment –
Lieutenant William BEATTY (Bronze; a dam at Onverwacht, Orange River Colony, 28/07/1901)
"On the 28th July, 1901, a soldier, in trying to recover some shot duck from a dam at Onverwacht, Orange River Colony, got into difficulty, the dam being full of weeds and barbed wire. Sergt-Major M'Gregor, Royal Scots Mounted Infantry, and Private Gardiner, Royal Berks Mounted Infantry, went to his help but could not succeed in saving him, and themselves got into danger. Lieut. Beatty went in and supported M'Gregor till a line was got out and they were pulled out, while Gardiner got out unaided, the soldier being drowned.
Vellum to M'Gregor and Gardiner".
1st Volunteer Active Service Company, Royal West Surrey Regiment –
7318 Private Walter Ernest EADE (Bronze; Wilge River, Orange River Colony, 15/03/1901)
Presentation made by Colonel Attersoll Smith, in the Market Square, Reigate, on 29/01/1902.
"On the 15th March, 1901, Private Marsh, 2nd Vol Bn Royal West Surrey Regiment, took cramp while bathing in the Wilge River, Orange River Colony. At great risk, Eade, of the same Bn, jumped in and succeeded in effecting his rescue".
18th Hussars –
4994 Private Samuel Harry BROWN (Bronze; Kruis River, Northern Transvaal, 06/08/1901)
4371 Private Charles CLAYTON (Bronze; Kruis River, Northern Transvaal, 06/08/1901)
"On the 6th August, 1901, Private Meacham, of the 18th Hussars, while watering his horse, was thrown into the Kruis River in the Northern Transvaal. At great risk, Clayton and Brown went in and were successful in saving him".
3rd Bn. East Lancashire Regiment –
7234 Private J.W. BRADLEY (Bronze; dam at Karree, Orange River Colony, 17/01/1901, 27/02/1901 & 14/03/1901)
"On the 17th January, 1901, Private Lutner, 3rd Bn East Lancashire Regt, was bathing in a dam at Karee, Orange River Colony, and got out of his depth. Bradley, of the same Bn, at once went in and rescued him".
"On the 27th February, 1901, Private Isherwood, while bathing in the same dam, also got into danger. Bradley went in and brought him out".
"On the 14th March, 1901, Private Turner was bathing in the same place and got into deep water. Bradley again went in and managed to save him".
15/11/1901 awards
2nd Bn. Scots Guards –
???? Private T. HENDERSON (Bronze; Mooi River, Potchefstroom, 02/09/1901)
"On the 3rd September, 1901, Private M. Carr, 2nd Bn Scots Guards, was swept away while bathing in the Mooi River, Potchefstroom, South Africa. Henderson jumped in and succeeded in saving him".
15/01/1902 awards
16th Lancers –
3602 Corporal John PARKIN (Bronze; Burg River, Cape Colony, 11/12/1901)
"On the 11th December 1901, Trooper A.Warwick, of the same regiment, was bathing in the Burg River, Cape Colony, when he got into deep water, and, being unable to swim, was in danger of drowning. Parkin, at great risk, went in and, after a struggle, succeeded in saving him".
17/03/1902 awards
3rd Bn. King's Royal Rifle Corps –
Lieutenant Hereward WAKE, D.S.O. (Bronze; Bosman’s Spruit, Transvaal, 24/12/1901)
"On the 24th December 1901, while a convoy was crossing Bosman’s Spruit in the Transvaal, the bridge being 2 feet under water, a soldier was swept off into the river where the depth was 9 to 10 feet. Hereward plunged in from the bank and, at great risk, effected the rescue".
Captain Wake wearing the Royal Humane Society medal on his right breast
1st Bn. Rifle Brigade –
5962 Corporal Ernest HAMER (Bronze; Vaal River, Standerton, 08/01/1902)
"On the 8th January 1902, a soldier was seized with cramp while bathing in the Vaal River at Standerton and sunk in 10 feet of water. Hamer, at great risk, went in and, although being clutched, was able to save the man".
1st Bn. Gordon Highlanders –
8301 Private Robert William EMSLIE (Bronze; Sunday River, Transvaal, 11/10/1901)
"On the 11th October 1901, Corpl. Anderson, of the same regiment, was bathing in the Sunday River, Transvaal, when he got into a deep hole and went under. At great risk, Emslie sprang in and succeeded in saving him".
12th Royal Lancers –
3962 Shoeing Smith John MILNE (Bronze; Arnold’s Drift, Oliphants River, Transvaal, 18/09/1901)
"On the 18th September 1901, Trooper South, of the same regiment, got into difficulty while crossing the Oliphants River at Arnold’s Drift, in the Transvaal. Milne, at great risk, went to his help and managed to land him in safety".
Natal Volunteer Composite Regiment –
135 Trooper E.T. GODFREY (Bronze; Buffalo River, Transvaal, 31/12/1901)
"On the 31st December 1901, a man of the same regiment got into 15 feet of water while crossing the Buffalo River in the Transvaal. Godfrey went in and, with difficulty, got him into shallow water, where further help was given in landing him".
15/04/1902 awards
Cape Police –
Lieutenant J.R. CUMMING (Bronze; East London, 27/01/1902)
"On the 27th January 1902, two men got into danger in the sea at East London, South Africa. There was a strong tide running out, and the sea rough. At great risk, Cumming swam out and succeeded in saving both men".
15/05/1902 awards
2nd Bn Royal West Kent Regiment –
3547 Sergeant Bertie POND (Bronze; Zand River, 06/03/1902)
"On the 6th March 1902, a railway guard, while bathing in the Zand River, South Africa, got into a deep hole in the river bed. Seeing his danger, Pond, at great risk, went in, and with difficulty succeeded in saving him".
South Afrcan Constabulary –
E289 Corporal W.A.R. BARTLEMAN (Bronze; Tempe Dam, near Bloemfontein, 28/01/1902)
"On the 28th January 1902, Trooper F.H.Sharpe, South African Constabulary, was bathing in the Tempe Dam, near Bloemfontein, when he became weak, and sank in 9 feet of water, 25 yards from the bank. Bartleman, at great risk, swam out, but was clutched, and had to release his hold, and Sharpe was drowned".
16/06/1902 awards
Field Intelligence Department –
Guide Montague CLIFFORD (Bronze; Wilge River, Orange River Colony, 30/03/1902)
Previously served as 2319 Private Montague Clifford, Thorneycroft's Mounted Infantry.
"On the 30th March 1902, a Kaffir, in attempting to cross the Wilge River, Orange River Colony, was with his horse swept away by the strong current. Clifford, at great risk, went in and, with difficulty, succeeded in saving him".
July 1902 awards
1st Bn. Royal Welsh Fusiliers –
Lieutenant Hugh Ince WEBB-BOWEN (Bronze; Coal Mine Drift, Vaal River, 26/02/1902)
"On the 26th February 1902, Corpl. J.Miller RE fell from the pontoon into the Vaal River at Coal Mine Drift, Transvaal. Webb-Bowen, at great risk, plunged in fully clothed and brought him back in safety".
20th Hussars –
4471 Trooper A. PRETSELL (Bronze; Liebenbergs Vlei, Orange River Colony, 25/03/1902)
"On the 25th March 1902, while the 20th Hussars were crossing the Liebenbergs Vlei, Orange River Colony, De Soussa, a native cook, was swept away by the current. At great risk, Pretsell plunged in from the bank and rescued him".
3rd Bn The Buffs (East Kent Regiment) –
4086 Sergeant George REED (Bronze; Kroonstad, 02/12/1901)
"On the 2nd December 1901, Trooper Gifford, 7th Dragoon Guards, in attempting to cross the river at Kroonstad, was with his horse swept away by the current. Reed, at great risk, after a swim of 200 yards managed to rescue him".
03/10/1902 awards
81st Battery, Royal Field Artillery –
4497 Bombardier J.W. RICHARDSON (Bronze; Orange River, Cape Colony, 31/01/1900)
"On the 31st January 1900, Bombardier Buzzard RFA, in trying to swim the Orange River, Cape Colony, was seized with cramp. At great risk, Richardson jumped in and rescued him after being carried a quarter of a mile down the stream".
Royal Army Medical Corps –
12292 Private [Lance-Corporal] Walter PARKER (Bronze; Fish Hoek Bay, Cape Colony, 16/02/1902)
14215 Private G. FRASER (Bronze; Fish Hoek Bay, Cape Colony, 16/02/1902)
"On the 16th February 1902, Private Royle RAMC was bathing in Fish Hoek Bay, Cape Colony, when the rough sea carried him out some 400 yards from the shore. Parker and Fraser swam out and made a gallant effort to save him, but, becoming exhausted, had to desist, and he was drowned".
17/11/1902 awards
35th Bn. Imperial Yeomanry –
Lieutenant Albert George GWYNNE (Bronze; Lennoxton Drift, Newcastle, Natal, 01/09/1902)
Presentation made in Newcastle, Natal, in December 1902.
"On the 1st September 1902, a trooper of the 35th Battalion Imperial Yeomanry lost his horse in deep water and sank at Lennoxton Drift, Newcastle, Natal. Gwynne, at great risk, plunged in, fully clothed, and effected his rescue".
3rd Bn. York and Lancaster Regiment –
2338 Colour Sergeant John McCAIG (Bronze; Schmidt’s Drift, Vaal River, 21/01/1902)
"On the 21st January 1902, Private E.O’Farrell, of the same battalion, was bathing in the Vaal River at Schmidt’s Drift when he took cramp and called for help. M’Caig plunged in and, at great risk, rescued him in an exhausted state".
15/01/1903 awards
25th Bn. Imperial Yeomanry –
Captain A. McD. CALWELL (Bronze; Wilge River, O.R.C., 30/03/1902)
"On the 30th March 1902, Trooper Currie, of the same battalion, while watering his horse in the Wilge River, Orange River Colony, was swept away by the current, the river being in high flood. Captain Calwell, at great risk, plunged in from the bank and effected his rescue".
16/02/1903 awards
2nd Bn. Highland Light Infantry –
Lieutenant Walter Charles LECKIE-EWING (Bronze; Orange River near Aliwal North, Cape Colony, 08/05/1902)
"On the 8th May 1902, Corporal Black, of the 2nd Battalion Highland Light Infantry, when trying to cross the Orange River, Cape Colony, got into a hole and sank. The river was in flood, 10 to 15 feet deep, and very dangerous. At great risk, Leckie-Ewing plunged in and caught him, but, being twice dragged under, had to release his hold and Black was drowned".
P.O. Martin example sold through Dix Noonan Webb, 12/12/2012
Lieut. Haig example sold through Dix Noonan Webb, 04/03/2020
Sergeant Judd example sold through eBay, 19/08/2022, for €299 (approx. £250)
_____________________________________________
Shields Daily News, 16th January 1900
REWARDS FOR BRAVERY.
At its first meeting for the year, held in London yesterday, the Royal Humane Society awarded its medal of honour to a number of persons who had distinguished themselves in saving or attempting to save life under varying conditions of danger. ……
Major-General Barton, commanding the Fusilier Brigade in South Africa, brought to the Society’s notice the gallant conduct of Privates O’CONNOR and CONNOLLY, of the 2nd Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers, the former for attempting to save and the latter for saving life at Estcourt, Natal, on November 28th.
About midday, a private in the Royal Scots sank in twenty feet of water while bathing in the Bushman’s River. With great daring O’CONNOR dived several times, and at last brought the body to land, but life was extinct. Some two hours later, Sergeant Bennett, of the 7th Royal Fusiliers, also sank near the same place. Again O’CONNOR dived, and brought him up, but he also was dead. On the same day, Private Figg, also of the 7th Royal Fusiliers, was swept away by the current while bathing in the same river. Private T. CONNOLLY, of the Irish Fusiliers, sprang in fully clothed, and after a gallant struggle, landed him in safety. Both men were awarded the medal for their gallant action.
Hampshire Advertiser, 17th February 1900
HUMANITY REWARDED.
Ilted John MORRIS, butcher’s mate on the steamship Majestic, gets a medal from the Royal Humane Society for plunging into the Mersey, at Liverpool, on December 13th, and rescuing Private Cooper, of the Somerset Light Infantry, who had fallen overboard.
The Globe, 16th March 1900
RESCUES FROM THE MODDER RIVER.
ROYAL HUMANE SOCIETY AWARDS.
At a meeting of the Royal Humane Society yesterday afternoon medals and other honours were awarded for saving or attempting to save life. Special interest was manifested in a number of cases from South Africa, Lord Roberts himself commending some of them to the society’s notice. The following among other awards were made: –
Medal to Private PAULIZSKY [sic], royal Army Medical Corps, for rescuing Private Maples, of the East Kent Regiment, who was knocked into the Modder River from the pontoon bridge by a restive horse on February 3. Both men narrowly escaped being carried under the bridge by the current. Medal to W.P. TOWNSHEND, third officer of the transport Assaye, for gallantly attempting to rescue Private Bannard, of the Hampshire Regiment, who fell overboard at Cape Town on January 23. Medal to Private F. MOSLEY, 16th Lancers, for plunging into the Modder River on January 31 and rescuing a comrade who was carried away while bathing. Two men of the Lancers, named Priest and Bryant, attempted the rescue but failed, and testimonials are given them for their attempt.
Nottinghamshire Guardian, 14th April 1900
HUMANE SOCIETY’S MEDAL.
AWARDED TO SOLDIERS AT THE FRONT.
A number of medals for saving life were awarded at the last meeting of the Royal Humane Society. Special interest was manifested in a number of cases from South Africa, Lord Roberts himself commending some of them to the society’s notice. The following amongst other awards were made: – Medal to Private PAULIZSKY [sic], Royal Army Medical Corps, for rescuing Private Maples, of the East Kent Regiment, who was knocked into the Modder River from the pontoon bridge by a restive horse. Both men narrowly escaped being carried under the bridge by the current. Medal to Private F. MOSLEY, 16th Lancers, for plunging into the Modder River and rescuing a comrade who was carried away while bathing. Two men of the Lancers named PRIEST and BRYANT attempted the rescue, but failed, and testimonials are given them for their attempt.
Morning Post, 19th April 1900
ROYAL HUMANE SOCIETY AWARDS.
I. WILSON, transport contractor, Ladysmith, receives the medal for rescuing Second Lieutenant A.R. Harman, of the Rifle Brigade, from the Klip River on January 6. In trying to ford the river after a heavy storm both horse and man were swept away by the rapid current. Mr WILSON plunged in from the bank and saved Lieutenant Harman, the horse being lost.
Private J. RYALL, 6th Battalion Royal Warwickshire Regiment, on the recommendation of Colonel McCalmont, gets his medal for saving Private Kitson, of the battalion, who was being swept away while bathing at Simonstown on February 14.
Reynolds's Newspaper, 27th May 1900
GALLANTRY IN SOUTH AFRICA.
The Royal Humane Society has announced its list of awards in cases considered during the current month. Among the cases dealt with were the following: –
While the 13th Hussars were crossing the Tugela at Trichardt’s Drift on January 17, under fire from the enemy, several troopers were swept away by the strong current, the river being seventy yards wide and 25ft deep in the centre. On the recommendation of Lieutenant-General Clery, commanding the Second Division, who witnessed what took place, the silver medal is awarded to Trooper D.G. SCLANDERS, Natal Carbineers, and bronze medals to Captain J.H. TREMAYNE and Lieutenant F.H. WISE (13th Hussars), Major F.E. COOPER (Royal Artillery), Captain L. PARKE (Durham Light Infantry), and Trooper G. RODDY (Natal Mounted Police) for their courageous conduct in saving and attempting to save life on the occasion.
Silver medals are also awarded to Lieutenant N.W. HAIG, Lieutenant J. HARRIS, and Sergeant WILLIAMS, 6th (Inniskilling) Dragoons, the former for saving Lieutenant Meek, and the two latter for attempting to save Second-Lieutenant Dent, of the same regiment, from the Orange River at Alleman’s Drift on March 15. In forwarding the case from Bloemfontein, Lieutenant-Colonel Page-Henderson states that the men behaved with great gallantry, the river being in flood, full of eddies and dangerous whirlpools. Lieutenant HAIG has since been taken prisoner by the enemy.
Private H. HINKS, 2nd Battalion Royal Scots Fusiliers, gets the bronze medal for a very plucky attempt to save Private Dawson, of the same regiment, from the Bushman's River at Estcourt in November last. Although unsuccessful, Private HINKS exhibited great courage and coolness, the river being 20ft deep and very treacherous.
London Evening Standard, 22nd June 1900
REWARDS FOR BRAVERY.
The Royal Humane Society issued last night its completed list of awards in cases it had under investigation during the current month, the under-mentioned being some of the principal awards: –
Medal to Private James WOODLEY, 1st Battalion Rifle Brigade, for saving a comrade from a deep and dangerous pool at Elandslaagte, Natal, on May 2; medal to Trooper R. HOWELL, South African Light Horse, for his daring rescue of Corporal Barkley, of the same corps, from the Tugela, at Potgieter’s Drift, Natal, on January 11. These men, with others, had volunteered to swim the river and seize the pont, and when in mid stream Barkley took cramp and was being swept away by the strong stream running. Trooper HOWELL at once went to his help, and managed to swim with him to the bank, when the pont was cut adrift, and the whole party returned in safety, although they were exposed to a hot fire from the Boers. Medal to Private Cassidy, New Zealand Mounted Infantry, for rescuing Lieutenant Findlay, of the same Corps, from the Hartebeest River, Cape Colony, on April 1. Being on patrol duty, and having to cross the river, Lieutenant Findlay’s horse was swept away. CASSIDY at once went to his help, when his horse was overturned, and was swept off; but the gallant fellow stuck to Findlay, and landed him. CASSIDY also saved his own carbine, side arms, and water bottle, also having his bandolier with 100 rounds strapped round him.
Portsmouth Evening News, 25th June 1900
FOR SAVING A SEAMAN.
Joseph J. BARNES, fireman on the transport Umbria, which is expected to arrive at Southampton with wounded from the Cape shortly, has been awarded the Royal Humane Society’s medal. BARNES plunged overboard at Queenstown, and saved a man of the Durham Light Infantry, and also a seaman of H.M.S. Howe, who went in to try to save him.
London Evening Standard, 17th August 1900
REWARDS FOR BRAVERY.
The Royal Humane Society on Wednesday afternoon began an investigation of nearly 100 cases of bravery in saving life sent in during the current month, and conferred honours on the following amongst other persons who had incurred risk in their humane efforts: –
Medal to Corporal A.R. COUSINS, 2nd Battalion Scottish Rifles, for his gallantry in rescuing Corporal Carr, of the same battalion, from the Tugela, at Potgieter’s Drift, on January 16. It was nearly dark at the time, and a strong current was running.
Lloyd's Weekly Newspaper, 30th September 1900
BRAVE SOLDIERS REWARDED.
Nearly 50 cases of gallantry by officers and soldiers in saving or attempting to save life from drowning in South Africa have been referred to the Royal Humane Society since the beginning of the war. The society’s medal has in consequence been conferred on many of those thus brought to notice. Prominent among the recipients of this distinction is Pte. Peter O’CONNOR, 2nd Batt. Royal Irish Fusiliers, who twice in one day attempted to save life from the Bushman’s River at Estcourt. In the first instance a private of the Royal Scots sank in 20 feet of water while bathing. O’CONNOR dived repeatedly, and at last got him to the bank, but every effort to restore animation failed. Two hours later Sergt. Bennett, of the Royal Fusiliers, also sank while bathing. Again O’CONNOR dived and landed his man, but too late to save his life. Private O’CONNOR is a Belfast man, and enlisted in his present regiment 12 years ago. He has seen service in India, and during the present war took part in the action at Mooi River, the battles of Colenso and Spion Kop, and was present at the relief of Ladysmith.
Another medalist is Corpl. A.R. COUSINS, 2nd Batt. Scottish Rifles, who rescued Corpl. Carr from the Tugela at Potgieter’s Drift. While the Rifles were crossing the river in single file Carr was swept away by the current, and it was only after a desperate struggle that Corpl. COUSINS succeeded in getting him to the bank a long way down the river. The father of Corpl. COUSINS was an old soldier in the Rifles, and his son joined the same regiment at Calcutta, where he was born, and where his father was then quartered. Corporal COUSINS got safely through every engagement up to the relief of Ladysmith. At Laing’s Nek, however, he was struck down with dysentery and was invalided home, but is now nearly recovered.
London Evening Standard, 16th October 1900
REWARDS FOR BRAVERY.
The Royal Humane Society yesterday began its investigation of nearly two hundred cases of gallantry in saving life from drowning, sent in from various parts of the Empire for some form of recognition. The undermentioned awards were made in some of the principal cases disposed of: –
Silver Medals to Louis H.J. TINNEY, fourth officer of the hired transport Tagus, and Private R. HAMILTON, 2nd Battalion West Yorkshire Regiment for their heroism on June 19. A man had fallen overboard from the ship, and a boat being lowered to pick him up the engines were started, resulting in the propellor smashing the boat and badly injuring one of the crew. TINNEY being in charge of the boat at once swam to his help, and HAMILTON, jumping from the ship, assisted in supporting him till they were picked up. Both men incurred extreme risk, not only from the propellor, but from sharks which infested the locality.
Temuka Leader, 6th November 1900
We learn by cable a short time ago that Trooper CASSIDY has been awarded the Humane Society’s medal for saving the life of Lieut. Findlay. Captain Hayhurst was president of the Military Board which recommended that the medal should be given.
Morning Post, 16th November 1900
ROYAL HUMANE SOCIETY AWARDS.
The usual monthly meeting at the Royal Humane Society was held at the office, Trafalgar Square, yesterday afternoon.
Medals were awarded to the following:
John GREGORY, Natal Ambulance Corps, for swimming out through the surf at Durban and bringing in a man named Dutton, who was carried away while bathing. His efforts were of no avail, the man being dead.
Morning Post, 27th November 1900
PRETORIA, OCT. 25.
Today, at one minute to four precisely, accompanied by a royal salute and the cheers of a distinguished and enthusiastic crowd, the Royal Standard was hoisted over Pretoria. …….
Immediately afterwards nine men in various uniforms, who had been drawn up on the south side of the square, were marched to a point opposite Lord Roberts. In front of them was a table covered with the Union Jack, on which were seven Victoria Crosses and two Humane Society’s medals. …….
Lieutenant HARVEY, of Nesbitt’s Horse, and Private CASSIDY, of the New Zealanders, each received a life-saving medal.
Western Morning News, 22nd February 1901
ROYAL HUMANE SOCIETY.
Awards have been made by the Royal Humane Society as follows: –
Medal to Colour-Sergt. SIMPSON, King’s Own Scottish Borderers, for a plucky rescue of a comrade from the Riet River, Orange River Colony.
Medal to Bombardier R.F. BARRETT, 68th Battery, R.F.A., for rescuing Trumpeter McMillan from the Orange River on December 7th. BARRETT was wounded at Dewetsdorp and taken by De Wet, by whom he was kept on the march for 11 days with very little food.
Army & Navy Gazette, 2nd March 1901
King’s Own Scottish Borderers (25th).
Col.-Sergt. SIMPSON, 1st Batn., has been granted the medal of the Royal Humane Society for a signal act of gallantry in plunging into the Riet River, South Africa, and rescuing Corpl. Taylor.
Army & Navy Gazette, 9th March 1901
Bombr. R.F. BARRETT, 68th Field Battery, R.F.A., has been awarded the medal of the Royal Humane Society for saving the life of Trumpeter McMillan from the Orange River on Dec. 7 last. These two men had just been released by De Wet, after marching 11 days with very little food. BARRETT, too, suffering from a wound received at Dewetsdorp, his act was one of great gallantry.
Evening Mail, 22nd March 1901
REWARDS FOR SAVING LIFE.
The Royal Humane Society have awarded medals to the following: –
Lance-Corporal G. NEWNES and Private H. TUBBS, 1st Batt. Royal Welsh Fusiliers, for saving a trooper of Brabant’s Horse from the Mooi River at Potchefstroom; Private M. CLARKE, also of the Welsh Fusiliers, for saving a comrade from the Mooi River at Taibosch; Sapper P. JONES, 42nd Company R.E., for rescuing Sapper Hunt from the Crocodile River at Kaapmuiden.
Morning Post, 16th April 1901
ROYAL HUMANE SOCIETY AWARDS.
For meritorious action in saving, or attempting to save, life from drowning the undermentioned awards were made:
Medals to Captain E.C. HOLLAND, Sergeant MOORE, and Private KIRBY, all of the Inniskilling Dragoons, for their gallantry in rescuing two men from the Pongola River, Eastern Transvaal, on February 21. Medal to Lieutenant G.K. ANSELL, of the same regiment, for saving Trooper Johnson from the same river on February 26. Medal to Sergeant W.J. JUDD, also of the Inniskillings, for his plucky rescue of Private Whyte, also from the Pongola River, on March 3; Lieutenant-General French specially commended this man’s bravery in sending the case to the society. Medal to P. COX, 58th Company Imperial Yeomanry, for rescuing a man of the Dublin Fusiliers from a dam at Fort Harlech, near Johannesburg, on March 3.
Army and Navy Gazette, 20th April 1901
6th (Iniskilling) Dragoons.
The award has been made of several medals to officers and men of the regiment this week by the Royal Humane Society. Medals to Capt. HOLLAND, Sergt. MOORE, and Pte. KIRBY for their gallantry in rescuing two men from the Pongola River, Eastern Transvaal, on Feb. 21. Medal to Lieut. ANSELL for saving Trooper Johnson from the same river on Feb. 26, Medal to Sergt. W.J. JUDD for his plucky rescue of Pte. Whyte, also from the Pongola River, on March 3; Lieut.-Gen. French specially commended this bravery by sending the case to the Society.
Lloyd's Weekly Newspaper, 19th May 1901
SILVER MEDALLISTS.
The silver medal of the Royal Humane Society was, on Wednesday, awarded to Private G.H. MILLER, Imperial Yeomanry. Plunging from the transport Tagus, in mid-ocean, on March 12, he rescued a man who had fallen from the ship, the boat which picked them up being followed to the ship by three sharks. Another Yeoman, Private TAYLOR, who saved a man three days earlier from the same vessel, in shark-infested waters at St Vincent, receives the bronze medal.
Toronto, 1st June 1901
Lieutenant Harold BICKFORD, 6th Dragoon Guards, formerly of Gore Vale, Toronto, has been awarded a medal for life-saving by the Royal Humane Society. He saved a drowning man in South Africa in a gallant manner.
Manchester Courier, 22nd June 1901
BRAVE LANCASHIRE MEN.
ROYAL HUMANE SOCIETY AWARDS.
The Royal Humane Society, at its meeting in London on Monday conferred its honours on a large number of persons for brave deeds on behalf of their fellows. Included among the number were several Lancashire men, for gallantry in South Africa. The following awards were made: –
Bronze medal to Lance-Corporal Robt. HOWARD, 2nd Battalion Lancashire Fusiliers, for his daring rescue of Private Ryan from the Zandspruit river, Natal, on December 20; bronze medal to Private M. CANNON for having at the same time and place made a daring attempt to rescue Private Jacques, who was unfortunately swept away and drowned; bronze medal to Private Richard HOUGHTON, 4th Battalion King’s Own Lancaster Regiment, for saving a comrade from drowning at Tafelberg, Cape Colony, on February 8; bronze medal to Private A.H. BROWN, 3rd V.B. Lancashire Fusiliers, for his plucky rescue of Private Rogers, the Lancaster Regiment, who fell from the ferry pont into the Buffalo River at De Jager’s Drift, in the Transvaal, on February 27.
Jarrow Express, 20th July 1901
The Committee of the Royal Humane Society rewarded several heroic deeds which resulted in the saving of life. Lieut. R.T. BARRETT, of Thorneycroft’s Mounted Infantry, was awarded a medal for rescuing a man of the regiment at Modder Spruit, South Africa, on April 7. General Buller recommended the case as one of great bravery under trying conditions.
South Canterbury Times, 12th August 1901
HONOUR TO WHOM HONOUR IS DUE.
Amongst the letters from South Africa published in our columns (“Weekly Press”) about twelve months ago, there was one in which details of the rescue from drowning of Lieutenant Walker were given. Yesterday, Lieutenant O’FARRELL, of the Derbyshire Regiment, asked a “Press” representative that the following true facts be published: — The men of the Third Contingent, numbering about 250, had gone down to the shore with their horses, and after exercising on the beach were informed by Colonel Jowsey that they might bathe. The horses were ridden into the sea, but some of them would not face it. Lieutenant O’FARRELL (then a sergeant in the Third Contingent) was endeavouring to force his mount into the water when he heard a shout of someone is drowning, and jumping off his mare he threw the reins to a trooper and swam out to the drowning man, and caught him by the arm, afterwards learning that it was Lieutenant Walker who was in distress. Mr O’FARRELL was struggling to bring Walker in when Trooper C.E. CROSS, of Christchurch, came up and took Walker’s other arm. A third man, Trooper Moffatt, rode to meet them on horseback, but his horse in plunging struck O’FARRELL on the head, and he went under, but recovering again managed with CROSS to pull Walker to shallow water, when he fell down quite done up. Sergeant Cholmondeley, of Opawa, went into the water up to his waist, and brought O’FARRELL in, CROSS sticking to Walker, and finally the latter was assisted on to the beach by Cholmondeley. Lieutenant O’FARRELL considers it is only fair that Trooper CROSS, who did as much as he in saving Walker, should have the credit of his action. Trooper CROSS is now in Scotland, and, writing to his father, states he will probably be in Christchurch at the end of this month or some time in August. [We are informed that Trooper CROSS volunteered from Fairlie].
London Evening Standard, 16th August 1901
REWARDS FOR BRAVERY.
The Royal Humane Society held its first meeting for the month yesterday afternoon, when the medal or other honour was conferred on an exceptionally large number of persons who had distinguished themselves by brave deeds. The principal awards were: –
Medal to Lieut. Colonel Duncan McKENZIE, commanding the Imperial Light Horse, for gallantly saving a trooper of the 5th Lancers from the Compies River, Eastern Transvaal, on February 26. Medal to Private J. SMITH, Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, for rescuing a sailor from the harbour at Cape Town on January 20. Private SMITH was severely wounded at Modder River. Medal to Captain MIERS, Cameron Highlanders, for saving Second Lieutenant Maturin, Royal Field Artillery, from the Vaal River in December last.
Daily Record, 16th August 1901
SCOTCH RECIPIENTS OF HUMANE SOCIETY AWARDS.
The Royal Humane Society, at its meeting in London yesterday, had over a hundred cases of bravery in saving or attempting to save life sent in for some form of recognition, several awards being to Scotchmen.
Private J. SMITH, 1st Battalion Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, received the medal for plunging into the harbour at Cape Town on January 30th [sic] and rescuing a sailor belonging to the transport Jelunga. SMITH at the time was suffering from a wound received at Modder River.
The medal was awarded to Captain Douglas N.C.C.M. MIERS, 1st Battalion Cameron Highlanders, for his gallant rescue of Lieut. Maturin, Royal Field Artillery, who was swept away while crossing the Vaal River, Orange River Colony, in December last.
Morning Post, 23rd August 1901
ROYAL HUMANE SOCIETY AWARDS.
The Royal Humane Society yesterday concluded its investigation of one hundred and twenty-three cases of gallantry sent in during the month, the following awards, in addition to those already announced, being made.
Medals to Troopers R.B. PITT and H.G. WILLIAMS, West Kent Yeomanry, the former for attempting to save Trooper Kennard, who was drowned in the Mopin [sic] River, at Clocolai [sic], Transvaal, on April 2, and the latter for rescuing PITT, who got into difficulty in trying to save his comrade. Medals to Lance-Corporal HUSTON and Private JOYCE, South Staffordshire Regiment, for a gallant attempt to rescue Private French, who was drowned in the Caledon River, Orange River Colony, on March 18.
Perth Western Mail, 21st September 1901
A WEST AUSTRALIAN GOLD MEDALLIST.
Lieut. Vincent O'FARRELL, who for some time was associated with the Civil Service in this State, and who joined one of the early New Zealand contingents to South Africa, will reach Perth in a few days, to visit his relatives, on his way back to Pretoria. Most of the returned contingenters carry some token of their visit to the Transvaal, and Lieut. O'FARRELL has one also. It consists of a gold [sic] medal, presented to him by the Royal Humane Society of Great Britain, for an heroic act, in which he risked his life by jumping into some breakers and saving a comrade from drowning. Since then he has been offered, and has accepted, an important position in the Transvaal capital, and is now on his way back to take up his new duties there. On Tuesday, Lieut. O'FARRELL was married in Melbourne, to Miss Axton, of Kingston, but Mrs O'Farrell will not accompany her husband immediately to Pretoria.
The incident for which Lieut. O'FARRELL gained his medal is thus reported in the Canterbury "Press". "The men of the third contingent, numbering about 260, had gone down to the shore at New London with their horses, and after exercising on the beach were informed by Colonel Jowsey that they might bathe. The horses were ridden into the sea, but some of them would not face it. Lieut. O'FARRELL, then a sergeant in the Third Contingent, was endeavouring to force his mount into the water, when he heard a shout of "Someone is drowning", and jumping off the horse he was riding, he threw the reins to a trooper and soon swam out to the drowning man and caught him by the arm, afterwards learning that it was Lieut. Walker who was in distress. Mr O'FARRELL was struggling to bring Walker in, when Trooper C.E. CROSS, of Christchurch, came out end took Walker's other arm. A third man, Trooper MOFFATT, rode to meet them on horseback, but his horse in plunging struck O'FARRELL on the head and he went under, but, recovering again, managed with CROSS to pull Walker into shallow water, when he fell down quite done up. Sergeant CHOLMONDELEY, of Opawa, went into the water up to his waist and brought O'FARRELL in, CROSS sticking to Walker, and finally the latter was assisted on to the beach by CHOLMONDELEY".
Burnley Express, 23rd October 1901
It is pleasing to observe that the Royal Humane Society have granted their bronze medal to Private J.W. BRADLEY, 3rd Battalion East Lancashire Regiment, for saving on January 17 Private H. Sunter [sic - Lutner], on February 27 Private W. Isherwood, and on March 14 Private James Turner, all of the same battalion, the man in each case getting out of his depth while bathing in a dam at Karree, Orange River Colony.
Wigan Observer, 6th November 1901
A WIGANER’S HEROISM IN SOUTH AFRICA.
THE HUMANE SOCIETY MEDAL AWARDED.
His Worship the Mayor (Mr Councillor Fyans) has received the following letter: –
2nd Lancashire Fusiliers, Wonderfontein, Eastern Transvaal, Sunday 6th October,1901. – Your Worship, – With the sanction of my commanding officer (Major C.D. Wallington), I have very much pleasure in bringing to your Worship’s notice that after Divine service parade this morning, Private Michael CANNON, 2nd Lancashire Fusiliers, and a native of the loyal borough of Wigan, was presented with the Royal Humane Society medal. The facts of the case are as follows: – On the 20th September [sic?], 1900, during the march from De Jagers’s Drift to Dundee (Natal) the Battalion had to cross Zand Spruit river, which was then heavily in flood, and a very strong current was running. One sergeant and three men were drowned. Private CANNON, at the imminent risk of his own life, and being fully equipped at the time, jumped into the water, and endeavoured to save the life of Private Jacques, of this Battalion, but was unable to do so, as the current was too strong. The Commanding Officer, in presenting him with the medal, spoke in the most eulogistic terms of his pluck, and the credit he had brought on himself and the Battalion. Personally, I cannot speak too highly of Private CANNON’s gallant conduct, and I trust that the heroic deed may be given full publicity in the “Wigan Observer”, with any further remarks that your Worship may deem to mention. To prove my identity and genuineness in taking a keen interest in the case, I may say that I am the elder son of Mr J. Moss, of Hindley, and your Worship is at liberty to publish this letter. – I am, your obedient servant, William Moss, Sergeant-Major 2nd Lancashire Fusiliers. – The Mayor of Wigan”.
Dundee Evening Telegraph, 16th November 1901
RECOGNITION FOR BRAVERY.
The monthly meeting of the Royal Humane Society was held in London yesterday. There were again a number of cases from Scotland, and the following awards were made: –
Medal to Private T. HENDERSON, 2nd Battalion Scots Guards, for rescuing Private Carr, of the same regiment, from the Mooi River, near Potchefstroom, Transvaal, on September 2.
Hampshire Advertiser, 18th January 1902
AWARDS FOR GALLANTRY.
At its first meeting for the year held on Wednesday in London, the Royal Humane Society made the following awards in service cases: –
Medal to Corporal J. PARKIN, 16th Lancers, for gallantry in rescuing a comrade in 15 feet of water in the Burg River, Cape Colony, on 11th December last.
Perthshire Advertiser, 27th January 1902
ARGYLL AND SUTHERLAND HIGHLANDER’S PLUCKY DEED.
On Thursday, at a full dress parade of the troops at Stirling Castle, Colonel Trotter presented Private SMITH, Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, with the bronze medal of the Royal Humane Society. The circumstances, as Colonel Trotter remarked in presenting the medal, were that on landing at Cape Town, Private SMITH saw a dockyard labourer fall into the water, and, as he was in imminent danger of being crushed to death between the ship and the pier, Private SMITH jumped in as he was, and at the risk of his life saved the man from drowning, an act of bravery which, performed in cool blood, and without any of the excitement incident on deeds of valour in action, well merited its award. It was a pleasure to him to make the presentation to an old soldier in the presence of so many young soldiers, and he hoped he would live long to wear the decoration.
Surrey Mirror, 31st January 1902
A VOLUNTEER’S GALLANTRY.
PRESENTATION AT REIGATE.
In the Reigate Market Square, on Wednesday evening, there was a very interesting martial gathering, the occasion being the presentation of the medal of the Royal Humane Society to Pte. W.E. EADE, of the 2nd V.B. “The Queen’s”. Whilst out in South Africa with the Service Company, Pte. EADE, with commendable gallantry, saved a comrade from drowning, and it was to make some tangible recognition of so heroic an act that the public presentation of the Society’s medal was arranged. The men belonging to the “A” and “B” Companies assembled at the Drill Hall about eight o’clock, and, after undergoing inspection by Capt. C. Parsons (adjutant), with Col. C. Attersoll Smith, Major F.D. Watney, Lieut. Hull, and Capt. B. Marr-Johnson in attendance, marched to the Market Square, preceded by the company’s band. Here a large gathering of the townspeople had assembled, and the proceedings were watched with interest. Pte. EADE was called from the ranks, and the presentation was formally made by Col. Attersoll Smith, who explained that Pte. EADE was stationed at the bridge of a river, when he heard a cry for help, and, looking over, saw a comrade struggling in the water. Without hesitation he jumped into the water, and, after a desperate struggle, brought the drowning man safely to the bank. That was an act of bravery which had not been overlooked. Representations were made to the Royal Humane Society, who had recognised EADE by granting him the medal for saving life. He had done his duty as a member of the Service Company, and he had enhanced that duty by that act of gallantry they were now recognising. He (Col. Smith) had great pleasure in fitting the medal upon Pte. EADE’s breast, and he hoped he would live many years to come to wear it, and that it would always be handed down in his family as a record of the bravery he had displayed. He had also the pleasure in handing him the accompanying certificate of the Society, which he advised him to have framed and exhibited in his home (applause). The band then played the National Anthem, and the gathering dispersed.
Horsham Express, 4th February 1902
PRESENTATION TO A HORLEY VOLUNTEER.
Captain C. Parsons, who has been selected to succeed Major A.W. Taylor as adjutant of the 2nd V.B. the Queen’s (R.W.S.) Regiment, inspected the men of the A and B Companies at the Drill Hall, Reigate, on Wednesday evening last.
After the inspection the men marched to the Market Square, where an interesting presentation was made by Colonel Smith. Private EADE, of Horley, who went to South Africa with the Service Company of the 2nd Queen’s, was called from the ranks, and Colonel Smith, in addressing him, said he had a very pleasing duty to perform; that was to present him with a medal of the Royal Humane Society, which had been granted to him for saving the life of a comrade in South Africa. As far as he could understand, Private EADE was stationed on a bridge over a river, and hearing a cry, he looked over the bridge, and saw a comrade struggling in the water. Without a second’s thought for his own safety, he dropped his rifle and jumped into the water to save his comrade’s fate (Bravo). The river was in flood at the time, and the water was running very fast, but notwithstanding Private EADE reached his comrade and after a struggle brought him to the bank. The Royal Humane Society, in recognition of that act of bravery, now presented him with one of their medals. He (Colonel Smith) was sure that Private EADE would prize the medal, as it was quite equal to that he now wore and had received for his services in South Africa. As a soldier he had done his duty nobly, and they recognised it that night. Colonel Smith then pinned the medal to EADE’s breast, and said he hoped he would wear it for many years to come (loud applause), and that it would be handed down in his family as a record of his bravery. The Colonel also handed to EADE one of the society’s certificates. The men were then dismissed, and Private EADE, after being congratulated by his friends, was shouldered round the square.
Dundee Evening Telegraph, 18th March 1902
AWARDS FOR SAVING LIFE.
The monthly meeting of the Royal Humane Society was held in London yesterday, when many persons received recognition for brave action in saving, or attempting to save, life, the following being amongst the awards made: –
Bronze medal to Private R.W. EMSLIE, 1st Battalion Gordon Highlanders, for plunging into the Sunday River, Transvaal, on October 11, and saving Corporal Anderson, who was swept away while bathing.
Army and Navy Gazette, 22nd March 1902
Rifle Brigade.
Corpl. E. HAMER, 1st Batn., has been awarded the medal of the Royal Humane Society for saving the life of Pte. Salter in the Vaal River, at Standerton, on Jan. 8; and Pte. F. TOOLEY, 1st Batn., the Society’s testimonial for saving Pte. W. Wales, who got into deep water whilst bathing in the spruit at Greylingstad on Nov. 16 last.
Army and Navy Gazette, 22nd March 1902
King’s Royal Rifles (60th).
Lieut. Hereward WAKE has been awarded the medal of the Royal Humane Society for gallantry saving a soldier drowning at Bosman’s Spruit, near Carolina, on Dec. 24, 1901. The spruit was in flood, and the man was swept from the bridge while attempting to cross. Lieut. WAKE at once plunged into the water and brought him to land after great difficulty.
Army & Navy Gazette, 22nd March 1902
12 Lancers.
Shoeing-smith J. MILNE has been awarded the medal of the Royal Humane Society for his daring rescue of Trooper South from the Oliphant’s River, at Arnold’s Drift, on Sept. 18, 1901. The trooper was swept from his horse while crossing the river, and his bandolier getting round his neck, which kept his head under water, MILNE at great risk went to his rescue.
Lyttleton Times (New Zealand), 19th April 1902
THE TENTH CONTINGENT.
THE FAREWELL SUPPER.
It was after eight o’clock before the men were seated, and then the impressive little ceremony of the presentation of the Royal Humane Society’s medals to Sergeant CHOLMONDELEY and Trooper CROSS was switched in as an “appetiser unique” before grace was said and the locust devastation of the generous supper began in real earnest.
In the absence of Mr A.E.G. Rhodes (Mayor of Christchurch), Mr B.P. Manhire (Mayor of Sydenham) presided.
PRESENTATION OF MEDALS.
Before opening the programme the Chairman announced that the presentation of the Royal Humane Society’s medals to Sergeants FARRELL and CHOLMONDELEY, and Trooper CROSS would be made by Sir Joseph Ward.
Sir Joseph Ward said that he had been asked to perform a very pleasant duty in the presentation of medals from the Royal Humane Society to Sergeants CHOLMONDELEY and FARRELL and Trooper CROSS, of the Third Contingent. (Applause). He read a letter from Lieutenant-Colonel Slater to the Mayor stating that he had received two medals from the Humane Society for Sergeant O. FARRELL and Trooper CROSS, of the Rough Riders, for saving the life of Lieutenant Walker, at East London, on April 6, 1900. The society had requested that the medals should be presented as publicly as possible. Trooper CROSS would leave on Saturday with the Coronation Contingent – (applause) – and Colonel Slater suggested that the medals should be presented at the supper to the Tenth Contingent. (Hear, hear). Sergeant CHOLMONDELEY, who had actually saved Lieutenant Walker’s life, had been awarded a silver medal by the society. (Applause). Sir Joseph then detailed the circumstances under which the deed had been done. He went on to say that the Royal Humane Society had shown its sense of the bravery of these three men by awarding them the medals. Canterbury people would be proud to know that CROSS and CHOLMONDELEY were Canterbury lads. (Applause). He trusted and expected that whenever such deeds as had been done were again to be done, there would still be many of Canterbury’s sons ready to do them. (Applause and cheers). He then asked Sergeant CHOLMONDELEY to step forward to receive the silver medal and certificate of the Royal Humane Society.
Sergeant CHOLMONDELEY ascended the platform amid a storm of cheers and applause, and the medal was pinned on to his breast by Sir Joseph. Trooper CROSS was also loudly applauded when he went up to receive his certificate, and, at the call of Sir Joseph, “three real English cheers” were given for Sergeant FARRELL.
This closed the incident, and the supper was begun, the Bishop of Christchurch saying grace.
Star of Gwent, 1st August 1902
GALLANT WELSH FUSILIERS.
AWARDS FOR SAVING LIFE.
The Royal Humane Society will award a bronze medal to Private George Bollen, of the 2nd Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers, for saving a man, and making a daring attempt to save another, from the Peiho River, China, on the 14th January. A medal too, is to be presented to Lieut. H.I. WEBB-BOWEN, of the 1st Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers, for his pluck in rescuing a corporal of the Royal Engineers from the Vaal River, Coal Mine Drift, Transvaal, on the 26th February. Both of these battalions of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers have been quartered in Newport.
Aberystwyth Observer, 14th August 1902
BRAVE HAVERFORDWEST LIEUTENANT.
Lieutenant WEBB-BOWEN, the son of the Pembrokeshire chief-constable, has been awarded the bronze medal of the Royal Humane Society for his gallantry in saving the life of Corporal Miller in the Vaal River at Coal Mine Drift, Transvaal. Miller, who could not swim, fell into the river, which is 200 yards wide, 14ft deep, and runs with a strong current. Lieutenant BOWEN swam to the rescue with his clothes on, and after a hard struggle succeeded in bringing the drowning soldier back to the pontoon. Lieutenant BOWEN is an old Haverfordwest Grammar School boy, and a well-known footballer and cricketer. He won both senior and junior cups at his school.
London Evening Standard, 4th October 1902
RECOGNITION OF GALLANTRY.
Having completed its investigation of 236 cases of gallant action in saving life, sent in last month, the Royal Humane Society last night issued its final list of awards, including, amongst others, medal to Bombardier J.W. RICHARDSON, 81st Battery Royal Field Artillery, for gallant action in saving a comrade from the Orange River, Cape Colony. Both men were carried a quarter of a mile sown stream before a landing could be effected. Medals to Lance-Corporal W. PARKER and Private G. FRASER, Royal Army Medical Corps, for their endeavour to save Private Royle, who was swept out while bathing in Fish Hoek Bay, Cape Colony, in February last; both men narrowly escaped with their own lives.
Salisbury Times, 24th October 1902
The Royal Humane Society’s medal has been awarded to Bombardier J. RICHARDSON, 81st Battery R.F.A. (formerly of Trowbridge), for his plucky action in saving a comrade from drowning in the Orange River, Cape Colony.
Yorkshire Post, 18th November 1902
REWARDS FOR BRAVERY.
The Royal Humane Society, at its monthly meeting in London yesterday, made the following awards in cases of life saving in Yorkshire: –
Bronze medal to Colour-Sergt. John McCAIG, 3rd Battalion York and Lancaster Regiment, now stationed at Pontefract, for his gallantry in jumping into the Vaal River at Schmidt’s Drift, on January 21, and rescuing Private Farrel, who had taken cramp while bathing. The rescue was effected in 12 feet of water 30 yards from the bank, there being a strong current running at the time.
Hampshire Telegraph, 20th December 1902
A HAMPSHIRE HERO EARNS A MEDAL.
An act of heroism in South Africa has gained the medal of the Royal Humane Society for Lieut. A.G. GWYNNE, of the 35th Battalion Imperial Yeomanry, now stationed at Natal, a son of Mr E.F. Gwynne, of the “Bourne Hall” Hotel, Bournemouth. It seems that one of the troopers serving under Lieutenant GWYNNE took some horses to water at a river, which was swollen by heavy rain. The trooper rode on one of the horses, and led about twelve others, all tied together by the halters. The trooper’s horse slipped in the water, and brought down the other animals. Lieutenant GWYNNE, who was on horseback some distance off, galloped to the spot, saw the trooper drowning in the midst of the plunging horses, and at once dismounted and, without divesting himself of his uniform, dived into the river. With the utmost difficulty he brought the trooper back, administered brandy, and had the pleasure of seeing him revive, and subsequently completely recover from the immersion. Since the award of the Royal Humane Society’s medal, Lieutenant GWYNNE has had a further distinction conferred upon him – the Colonial Star.
Jersey Independent, 28th February 1903
A distinction has just been conferred upon Lieut. W.C. LECKIE-EWING, of the 2nd Batt. H.L.I., by the Royal Humane Society, who, at its monthly meeting last week, decided to award him their bronze medal for his heroic endeavour to rescue Corporal Black, of the same Battalion, who was drowned in the Orange River, near Aliwal North, last May. Lieut. LECKIE-EWING’s local friends and acquaintances will doubtless be pleased to hear of this distinction.
