QSAMIKE

OMG I forgot to post the reports...... Here they are all caught up......

Mike

　

SPITZKOP

12th. September, 1900

Dear Lord Strathcona,

We have been very busy ever since we marched from Badfontein, where I wrote my last report of our doings. Sergt. Brothers Logan and six men were killed and one man wounded. The men were out to the right to take post on a hight some thousands of yards off. So many killed with each small arms and there being Boer shells within a few feet creates the impression that any wounded were shot dead in cold blood. The infantry had to take the height. Since that we have been in Lydenburg and reached here yesterday after a constant fight over lofty mountains and being under heavy rifle, shell and machine gun fire for four days.

Sir R. Buller complimented us highly two days ago at Devils Knuckles where we advanced under fire and seized positions which were afterwards occupied by our guns. We had seven horses shot and two men wounded. Captured an ammunition wagon; a crane or gym for raising big guns and forcing the enemy to withdraw. All of the men have behaved well. Our horses are in a bad plight as the railway is not able to carry them any food. We carried the left of this position yesterday and saw the enemy in full retreat on Pilgrims Rest. A flag of truce was sent out by Botha to-day. We have not seen the bearer yet. It is to be hoped that this will end the war.

The men are in good spirits and admirable in their conduct, of which I as sure your lordship will be glad. The fighting has been as heavy as any in the war. Great experience has saved the troops from heavy losses such as took place at other times during the war. We have had a good many casualties from the beginning of our march, and the men need no longer complain of inactivity.

I hope you are enjoying good health and that some members of the Strathcona's at least will have the pleasure of being seen by your lordship.

Yours faithfully,

(Signed) S. B. STEELE

　

S T R A T H C O N A ' S H O R S E

Spitz Kop

Sept. 14th. 1900

Dear Lord Strathcona,

The following is taken from the Regimental Diary and covers the period from the date of my last report.

Badfontein,

Tuesday,

Sept. 4th, 1900

The Regiment was ordered to place picquets on the high ridge to the right of the camp. The orders were transmitted to Captain Cameron who commanded the outposts on the left flank.

Lieut. Leckie was sent to occupy a post on the high ridge to the right and Sergt. Logan, it appears, was sent with a section to a post on the same ridge still further to the front. Lieut. Leckie succeeded in getting to the ground, but found the enemy in considerable force. He then sent in to say that in order to hold the place support would be necessary. Lord Dundonald then ordered two troops of the Regiment to go out to his support.

In the meantime it was reported that Sergt. Logan and three men were missing. Pte. McDuff one of his men, who remained some distance in rear returned to camp with this information.

Two troops were ordered to carry out Lord Dundonald's orders, but unfortunately Lieut. Kirkpatrick, who was the Officer in Charge did not carry out the instructions which had been given to him through Major Jarvis and advanced to the rocky kopje which had been the cause of Sergt. Logan's party being missing, with the result that the troops became entangled among the snipers. Sergt. Brothers and Pte. Cruickshank were found to be missing. The troops were forced to return to camp. In the meantime Lieut. Leckie had to retire from his post.

During the morning Sergt. Nelles and the scouts were sent out to examine the country to the right front and to take a sketch of it. He was also to see it if was possible for the enemy to place guns on the right front. A report was made that it was possible to mount guns and it looked as though they were doing so on the point to the extreme front of the ridge to right of camp. Private Garner of the scouts was wounded in three places but not dangerously.

Badfontein,

Wednesday,

September 5th.

The information which Sergt. Nelles and the scouts gathered yesterday proved to be correct. This morning a "Long Tom" opened on the camp from the ridge and shelled us from 9 to early noon. Lord Dundonald ordered a shift of camp and the horses and saddlery were moved to a point under the ridge.

Our artillery shelled the ridge and the Infantry proceeded up, reaching the summit after meeting with considerable opposition. The Boer gun ceased fire about noon and towards evening the horses etc., returned to camp.

Late at night the Infantry reported that the bodies of Sergt. Brothers and Private Cruickshanks had been found and arrangements were made for their burial in the morning before marching.

Badfontein to Schuman's Farm

Thursday

September 6th.

The Regiment marched this morning at 9 o'clock, 4th Division M. I. leading, Strathcona's Horse following.

Before marching, word was received that the bodies of Sergt. Logan, Ptrs. Jones, West and Wiggins had been found. A burial party, accompanied by the Brigade Chaplain, Rev. Mr. Webb-Peplow, was sent up.

The position occupied by the enemy was carefully scouted, and found to be safe. The Brigade then ascended the long hill and proceeded through the valley to Schuman's Farm where it encamped.

General Hamilton's Force which came up by the Belfast Road could be seen on our left moving towards Lydenburg.

Information received that Boers have "Long Tom" trained on road from right of Lydenburg.

Schuman's Farm to Lydenburg

Friday,

September 7th.

The Regiment was in advance to-day covering the right front and front.

Outside of Lydenburg picquets were sent out to protect the right front. These were furnished by "B" Squadron and 1 troop of "A". During the afternoon Mr. Fall's troop and a force under Major Belcher met with a hot fire.

The enemy are in position on the heights to the right of Lydenburg and shelled the town and camp all afternoon. Headquarters reached camp after dark.

Owing to a mistake in the transmission of orders the troops covering the right were left till a late hour and resulted in the whole Regiment being on duty to-night.

Camp N. of Lydenburg

Saturday

September 8th, 1900

Reveille was made very early this morning as it was supposed that the camp would be again shelled. This proved to be correct and the Regiment was fortunate in being ready when ordered to take shelter in a donga on the left.

The 3rd Mounted Brigade covered the left of an attack on the enemies position which was on the ridge of hills to the Eastward and was very strong. The S.A.L.H., supported the advance the other Regts. of the Brigade and the Battery being held in reserve.

The position was taken with small loss

Lydenburg to Knuckle Spruit

Sunday

9th. September

The force moved at 7.30 this morning. The horses were led from the first ridge to the 2nd and assembled behind a rocky kopje. We were the moved over to cover the artillery which at this time was under heavy fire from Pom-Poms, rifles and artillery. This subsided for a few minutes and we were ordered forward moving with troops extended. When the Regt. got out of cover the Pom-Pom fire became very hot and we were ordered back. Again the Regt. was brought forward and a troop of "C" Squadron under Lieut. Leckie was sent out to scout in front. Captain Cameron with the remainder of "C" Squadron going in support. Later on that portion of the Regt. in reserve and finally the whole of it took positions on the rocky range. The maxims, which were along, did excellent work.

The scouts on the right flank discovered the Army's convoy in retreat. This was reported to the General with the result that the whole of the 3rd Mounted Brigade was ordered forward.

The enemy covered the retirement of the convoy and a heavy rifle and Pom-Pom fire principally directed at the S.A.L.H., Strathcona's Horse being under cover in reserve.

Later a party was sent out under Lt. Tobin for the purpose of covering the right flank and succeeded in discovering a large cache of provisions and other supplies amounting to something over 50 tons in weight. A guard was placed over it and the Regt. returned to camp after dark.

Knuckle Spruit to Devil's Knuckles

Monday,

September 10th.

The Regiment was taken out to left of camp this morning. Some wagons were found with women and children left behind by the enemy.

The Regt. was then ordered down to the advance with directions to report to General Kitchener. This was done and the Regiment assembled under cover near where we were last night. Later on we advanced by Squadrons to the ridge on which the guns were placed.

It was reported here that one of the enemy's "Long Toms" was disabled and the Regiment was pushed forward rapidly, taking cover under the high kopje to the right. From there the regiment again pushed forward to the stony kopje about 2 miles to the front and in advance of all the rest.

"B" & "C" Squadrons were finally sent to the 2nd kopje in front and two troops of "A" to the high rocky kopje on the right. The other 2 troops of "A" went to the lower one to cover the flank.

The rifle fire of the enemy was subdued and the positions held until the guns were brought forward to the kopje in rear of us, which was supposed to command the enemy's position.

A wagon of the enemy was captured by us loaded with ammunition and supplies. A crane was also found.

They had to abandon these owing to our rapid advance.

A fire was kept up on the enemy as long as was necessary.

I sent to General Sir Redvers Buller to say that we held the farthest advanced position that it could be safe to hold without support and he sent word back that we had gone far enough, and to withdraw with care.

Private Nicholson and Corporal Flintoff were wounded.

General Sir Redvers Buller and General Kitchener both expressed themselves as pleased with the work of the regiment to-day.

Devil's Knuckles to Spitz Kop

Tuesday,

September 11th.

Sir Redvers Buller sent for the Regiment, which he had previously ordered to wait for the 3rd Mounted Brigade, to come forward to the front. This was done, and he directed us to carry the left of the position while the K.R.R. did the right. He expected serious opposition at the time.

The Regiment was sent forward by Squadrons and held the different points while it moved successively to the ridge.

It was found that the ridge was only occupied by some snipers and on the left some outposts could be seen retiring.

The Regt. covered the left as far as Spitz Kop and then halted for further orders. Sir Redvers Buller came up to the ridge occupied by us and from which the Boer Army could be seen in full retreat on the low ridge lying between Spitz Kop and ourselves. They passed through the village of Spitz Kop and retired north.

Spitz Kop,

Wednesday,

September 12th.

The Regt. was on the move with force at 9 and ascended the high hill. At the top the Force returned but the Regt. sent forward 100 men under Major Jarvis to guard the mine and village some 8 miles further on where the Boers left over 100 tons of supplies.

Two troops were sent as escort for convoy proceeding to Devil's Knuckles and returned late to-night.

Every available man in Regt. was on duty to-day. In addition to those mentioned the Regt. supplied an outpost on high kopje to front of camp and another to guard the cross roads 3 miles to south.

Spitz Kop,

Thursday

September 13th.

The Squadron is still on duty at village. Major Jarvis reported some Boers having surrendered to him yesterday.

I am,

Yours respectfully,

(Signed) S. B. STEELE, Lt. Col.

Commanding, "Strathcona's Horse"

The Rt. Hon. Lord Strathcona and Mount Royal, C.G.M.G.

High Commissioner for Canada

London, England

SPITZKOP

20th. September 1900.

　

My Dear Lord Strathcona,

Many thanks for your kind message of congratulatiuons to Sergt. Richardson on his being awarded the Victoria Cross. He wishes me to thank you most sincerely for the trouble you have taken to let him know.

I may add that the whole regiment are pleased with the message, and hope that some of them may yet be so fortunate as to have such an opportunity. The Regiment will no doubt have a number of men recommended for the medal for Distinguished Conduct in the Field. I intend to submit some names to Lord Dundonald who is himself very anxious to see that justice is done to all.

Hoping that you are enjoying the best of health, I am,

Respectfully yours,

(Signed) S. B. STEELE

Lydenburg,

October 4th, 1900

Form O.C. - Strathcona's Horse

To - The Right Hon. Lord Strathcona and Mount Royal

London, England.

My Lord,

I have the honour to recommend that Lieut. Col. Biggar be attached to this Corps as a Special Service Officer.

I may say that Col Bigger was sent out to South Africa to take a course of training with the Army Service Corps. He sailed with us on the "Monterey" and since his arrival at the Cape has been acting nearly altogether in the interests of the Regiment, looking after the stores, our sick, and in fact everything we required at the Base he has been most painstaking to attend to.

During the voyage over Col. Biggar was very popular with the men and if it could be arranged to attach him to the Regt. I am sure it would meet with general approval and be a fitting reward for the trouble he has taken in the interests of the Regiment.

I have the honour to be,

Sir,

Your obedient servant,

S. B. STEELE, Lt. Col.

Commanding "Strathcona's Horse"

Lydenburg,

October 4th., 1900

From - O.C. Strathcona's Horse

To - The Rt. Hon. Lord Strathcona and Mount Royal

　

My Lord,

I have the honour to quote for your information extracts from the Regimental Diary from the 22nd September.

Spitz Kop,

Saturday,

September 22nd.

Part of "C" Squadron returned from Nel Spruit with convoy to-night. Nothing to report.

Spitz Kop,

Sunday,

September 23rd.

Church parade this morning, owing to "C" Squadron returning late last night they were excused.

The force shifted camp this afternoon, commencing at 2 p.m. A road was taken over the rise to the right of Spitz Kop and a camping ground chosen on the high road.

Near Spitz Kop,

Monday,

September 24th.

Force halted to-day. The Regiment furnished a patrol of 50 men to proceed down the Nel Spruit road to meet an ox convoy as firing had been heard last night the patrol was sent as a precaution and to reinforce the infantry. No trouble was met with.

Sabi Drift.

Tuesday

September 25th.

We marched this morning at 10.30, reaching Sabi Drift early in afternoon and reported to G.O.C., 3rd Mtd. Brigade who marched several days to this point from Devil's Knuckles via the Sabi Valley.

Wednesday,

September 26th.

Reveille at 4 a.m. On the move at 6.15. "B" Squadron which has been on duty at Glyn Lydenberg Mine since the 12th rejoined the Regiment before marching. The 4th Division Mounted Infantry was in advance. The enemy was reported to be in position on the rise where the road makes a sharp turn to the left towards Pilgrims Rest. When the advance reached this point the enemy opened fire with rifles and from one small quick firing gun. "A" Battery R.H.A. opened from the and the heavier guns farther back. The Devons supported by our guns attacked the left of the position and ascended the high kopje without loss.

Blinde River,

Thursday

September 17th.

The Regiment was on duty to-day marching in advance of Brigade at 5.45 a.m. The advance and flankers were occasionally sniped at but nothing of importance occurred until a point was reached 2 miles from the ridge overlooking the town of Pilgrim's Rest. Here the C.O. got orders from Sir Redvers Buller and Lord Dundonald that the column would bivouac at the place. The C.O. then sent back to Lord Dundonald for 50 men of the 4th M.I. to support the advance in scouting forward to the ridge over Pilgrim"s Rest. These men were required owing to the fact that our supply of men was exhausted. Lord Dundonald having withdrawn the support under Major Belcher and placed it on the high range some miles to the right and Mr. Christie's troop had been placed on the left. A support of two squadrons of the S.A.L.H. was sent under Major Brooks. Previous to this Sergt. Nelles with the scouts had been sent forward and accompanied by Capt. Phillips asst. Provost Marshal and Capt. Mackie, pushed into the town, which lay nestling in a deep ravine. They entered at a rapid pace through an extremely heavy fire but was fortunately without casualties. The mauser fire was the heaviest since Bergendal. The Town was taken possession of. Col.Chicester, Provost Marshal entered soon after with his Police and protected by "B" Squadron, held it all night.

The work of all ranks to-day was excellent and especially that of Capt. Mackie, Sergt. Nelles and the scouts. Lord Dundonald expressed himself as particularly well pleased with it.

Near Pilgrim's Rest

Friday

September 28th.,

With the exception of "B" Squadron, which was still on duty over the town the Regt. was on rear guard to-day and remained in our last night's bivouac until after nightfall, the marched in rear of transport to bivouac two miles beyond town at foot of long hill on Lydenburg road.

A troop under Mr. Leckie was in town all day guarding the prisoners and attending to other duties all of which they performed to the satisfaction of the Provost Marshal.

Morgengen

Saturday

September 29th.

The Regiment was again on rear guard and remained at foot of hill until last of Transport had left.

Morgengen

Sunday

September 30th.

The force halted to-day to rest the transport animals. There was a church parade this morning.

Kruger's Post

Monday

October 1st.

We marched at 6 o'clock and the 3rd Mtd. Brigade in advance the Regiment as advance guard. The hills were picquetted on both sides as far as the Forks in the road. Here the reserve and support of the regiment being exhausted a support from the 4th Division M.I. was sent. They picquetted the two points south of the two farms.

Part of the Regiment under Capt. Cartwright was on rear guard and the picquets on the hill were with drawn as the last of the transports passed.

The column halted at Kruger's Post and as Capt. Cameron reported that the hills were picquetted by the 2nd cavalry Brigade and the infantry who had come in from Lydenburg. He was ordered to withdraw from his position beyond the town to camp which was in an open space commanded by a range of hills 5000 yards away. The hills look dangerous and the C.O. was on the point of bringing it to the notice of the G.O.C. 3rd Mounted Brigade when shells began to fall in the camp. Guns had been placed on the hills by the enemy. The horses were sent out to herd in as safe a place as possible. We then got orders to take shelter behind a low kopje on the left of the camp, which was done.

The shelling of the Infantry continued until dark. After nightfall we were ordered back to camp. Supper was about ready when the shell began to fall again. Pte. Lord Edward Seymour of the Regt. was severely wounded by a shrapnel bullet and several horses were killed.

This shelling necessitated the column moving on a couple of miles. The shelling not having ceased when we were ordered to move the C.O. directed the Regiment to march over the open ground to the right of Kruger's Post where the enemy had not thrown any shells.

A force was sent out in the night to take the enemy's guns, but it was found, as expected, that they had been withdrawn.

During the shelling two officers of the Devons and two men of the S.A.L.H. were killed. In all the casualties amounted to 18 killed and wounded.

The behaviour of the men under such trying circumstances was very creditable it being one of the most awkward positions in which a mounted corps can be placed as there is no chance of retaliating and there is great danger of in bringing the horses into camp to saddle up.

Lydenburg

Tuesday

October 2nd.

Marched this morning at 6 a.m. the M.I. in advance. The day was without incident and we went into camp at 11.30 a.m.

Lydenburg

Wednesday

October 3rd.

It started to rain last night and continued all day, making it miserable for the men. We were under the impression that remounts would be ready here but we are only to be allowed our share of a lot, the whole of which would be inadequate. It is now believed that the Regiment will return to Canada.

I have the honour to be,

Sir,

Your most obedient servant,

S. B. STEELE, Lt. Col.

Commanding, "Strathcona's Horse"

Thankyou for adding his name - I'm sure that will make the post more interesting. What was his position

with the Royal Family ? Sorry about the Lodger/Dodger - much easier with a first name.......... Mervyn

Hi Mervyn.....

It is in his obit / bio......

"Administrative Adviser Her Majesty's Household 1964-80"

also

It mentions that he was a Financial Advisor to the Royal Family.....

Mike

2) Technically, many [all?] orders are the property of the monarch and as such should be returned to her/him on the death of the recipient. While this is clearly honoured more in the breach than the observance, there are clearly some cases in which it happens. Given the thrifty nature of the public service - [insert your own rude comment here] - it seems quite possible to me that the two awards were matched up by the Chancery. Just happening to have matching numbers would be pretty long odds, but stranger things happen.

Or, perhaps - I'm not a jeweller - it is possible to put a new back on, buff down the original back or do some other magic to remove one number and allow for a second to be added! Obviously anyone - recipient, dealer, Elvis - can add a number but I'm assuming that the Chancery does in fact have access to the jewellers who made the original order and so could make a very good stamp at producing a 'restamp' which wouldn't look like a restamp.

Peter

Hello Dodger......

I do not know where Peter gets the idea that matching numbers are accidental they are supposed to be matching.....

The K892 is correct and should and would show up on all documentation etc. with regards to that award.....

Please leave them alone.....

Mike

Hello Anthony.....

I can also confirm up to the South Africa 1901 as I have a 7 bar to the same unit but not the 1902.....

I would suggest posting your request on either of these two forums.....

http://www.angloboerwar.com/home

or

http://www.britishmedalforum.com/index.php?sid=c995fc3f4dc2780a2a6905e41a163d2e

Mike

Good Morning Ladies and Gentlemen.....

I have just aquired a large number of R.C.M.P. Quarterlies.....

60's, 70's, 80's and 90's

Before I sit down and post a list I would just like to find out if there is anyone interested in them.....

Mike

Nice Sweetheart Pins...... A whole category of collecting in it's self......

I especially like the Naval Air ones.....

Mike

Hello Peter.....

Yes that sounds about right as far as cost goes...... I also agree with you on the other badges.....

My suggestion is to also join the: www.britishbadgeforum.com

It will be a wealth of information for you.....

Mike

Good Morning Tony......

My suggestion is that you look at the Canadian section of a fellow forum......

http://www.britishbadgeforum.com/canadian_expeditionary_force/cef_index.htm

Yes there are copies of the rarer Canadian badges but not as many as British bdges.....

The silvered / chromed General List badges were used in WW2.....

Mike

Pffft... "Boat People"... Bah humbug!

Better than being a Pidgeon or a Brylcream Boy......

:whistle:

Good Morning Everyone......

Here is another part to the story.....

Mike

Issued in solemn warning this____20^th____ day of ___June__1968____

To: Friends, Relatives and Neighbors of __________________________

Very soon the above named rating will once again arrive in your midst, Radioactive, Dehydrated and Demoralized, eager to resume his place in society as a human being, entitled to liberty and justice whilst engaged on the somewhat delayed pursuit of happiness.

In making your joyous preparations to welcome him back to civilization you must make allowances for the crude environment which has been his unfortunate for his past commission. In brief, he may become a trifle oriental in his outlook on life, or he may be suffering from Rashitis, Sweatitis, Dogitis, or maybe even the shakes (a common complaint brought on by the consumption of too much Tiger Beer).

Therefore, show no alarm if he prefers to sit on the floor instead of a chair, kicks his boots against the steps before he enters the house, wears only a towel and shower sandals when visiting the neighbors, has an epileptic fit at the sight of a coconut, or has a tendency to salute anyone of importance. Always side-track him away from partially filled busses, for he will most certainly regard them as an organized party to a local brewery.

His diet, to which he has been accustomed, should for the first few weeks at least, consist of tinned milk, considerably watered down, dehydrated potatoes or other canned vegetables. Fresh or rich foods should be avoided for the first few weeks and then introduced very gradually. His only meat should be corned beef.

Do all the purchasing for him, gradually establishing in his mind that bartering, cajoling, and even threatening the shop keepers is not the thing to do in civilian life.

His language may be rather embarrassing at first, but in a relatively short time he can be taught to speak good plain English again. Never ask why the fellow down the road came home with a higher rate or rank than him, and never make flattering remarks about the Army or Air Force in his presence.

For the first few weeks (until he has become house trained) be particularly careful when he is in the company of young women. His intentions are usually sincere but dishonourable. Always keep in mind that beneath that rugged exterior beats a heart of gold.

Treat him with kindness, tolerance and an occasional quart of Rum and you will be able to rehabilitate that which is now only a hollow shell of the happy man you once knew.

Good Evening Everyone.....

I was going through some of my Mothers estate and found a number of letters and photos that I had sent her over the years while I served in the Royal Canadian Navy..... There were a couple of form letters from and I quote "Officer in Charge, Rehabilitation Advisory Committee, H.M.C.S. Saskatchewan" in 1968 before, during and after an extended Far East Deployment...... These were sent to the NOK of the members of the crew and I had not seen them before..... I will say that they brought back a flood of memories.......

Here is the first..... Enjoy.....

Mike

WHAT IS A CANADIAN SAILOR…..

Between the security of childhood and the insecurity of a second childhood we find a fascinating group of humanity called ‘Canadian Sailors’….

They come in assorted sizes and weights and states of sobriety…. They can be found anywhere on ships at sea, in shore bases, in bars, in love, and always in debt….. Girls love them, towns tolerate them, and the government supports them…..

A sailor is laziness with a deck of cards, bravery with tattooed arms, and the protector of the seas with a copy of playboy….. They have the energy of a turtle, slyness of a fox, the brains of an idiot, the stories of a sea captain, the sincerity of a liar, the observations of a Casanova, and when he wants something it is usually connected with a request form…..

Some of his interests are women, females, girls, and members of the opposite sex….. His dislikes are not getting any letters, wearing his rig pusser style, the old man, kipper officers, and wakey wakey…..

No one else can cram into one jumper pocket a little black book, a pack of cigarettes, a picture of his girl, a comb, an old station card, and what is left of his pay….. He likes to spend his money on girls, poker, booze, and the rest foolishly…..

You can lock him out of your house, but not out of your heart, scratch him off your mailing list, but you can’t out of your mind, he is your long away lover, son, brother and your one and only blood shot eyed, good for nothing bundle of worries….. But all your shattered dreams dissolve when your sailor docks looks at you with those bloodshot eyes and says “Hi Honey, I’m Back”……

Anon……

Adrian......

I did make one error that should have been 12 years worth of service 7 years with the colours and 5 in reserves......

Boer War Service: 20th Hussars.....

The regiment sailed from Bombay, and arrived at Durban in December 1901. Along with the 3rd Hussars they were brigaded under Colonel Nixon, and took part in the work in the extreme northeast of the Orange River Colony during the final drives.

Both regiments of Colonel Nixon's brigade were frequently engaged with the enemy, and their work has been very briefly referred to under the 3rd Hussars.

One non-commissioned officer gained mention in despatches by Lord Kitchener during the war, and in his final despatch he mentioned 4 officers and 4 non-commissioned officers.

3rd Hussars.....

The regiment sailed from India, and arrived at Durban in December 1901. After being stationed in the Newcastle district for a short time, they and the 20th Hussars were brigaded under Colonel Nixon, and were employed in the last great drives, chiefly in the extreme north-east of the Orange River Colony, when many of the enemy were taken. This column was responsible for many of these captures, and in Lord Kitchener's despatch of 8th April 1902 he mentioned that "Colonel Nixon reported the discovery of three Krupp field guns which were found hidden in the bed of a tributary of Liebensberg's Vlei". Dealing with an earlier drive, Lord Kitchener stated that Colonel Nixon had on the night of 26th February 1902 "successfully repulsed an attack by a large number of the enemy upon the line of the Cornelius River".

Mike

Hi Mike,

Well I must say a big thanks and I am very suprised by that news! How did you find out, is there anywhere I can see this evidence? This is a real development, can you shed any light on why he would have put 'railway labourer' as his profession on a wedding certificate?

Thanks

Adrian (Great grandson)

Hello Adrian.....

The medal ribbon looked like a Queen's South Africa Medal so I looked him up on a list of Cavalry Members who served in South Africa...... There was only one H. Hallett and he served in the 20th Hussars....... I took an educated guess, which you have to sometimes..... In those days you enlisted for 15 years, you served 8 years with the colours and 7 years in the reserves...... If he enlisted in 1899 or 1900 the date on his wedding certificate would have been about the time he was being discharged..... Maybe that was the job he was going to....... Also since he would have still been in the reserves he would have been called up for active duty with his old regiment for World War One......

Mike

The Right Hon. Lord Strathcona and Mount Royal

17, Victoria Street,

London, England

BADFONTEIN,

September 3rd. 1900.

Dear Lord Strathcona,

My last report was dated the 16th. ult., from Turffelaar.

On the 17th. the regiment was on duty and supplied the outposts for the protection of the camp. Some firing occurred and No. 1 picquet but there were no casualties.

The army marched on the 21st., the 3rd. Mtd. Brigade covering the right and rear. The 2nd Cavalry Brigade with the Gordon Highlanders suffered rather severely, the Gordon's losing 4 killed and 9 wounded.

The force halted at Van Wyks Vley and remained there for the 21st. and 22nd.

On the 23rd. we marched to Gelutt, the Brigade covering the right and rear. The S.A.L.H. had 4 wounded and the Liverpool's 80 killed, wounded or missing. The regiment picqueted the kopjes to the right rear of the camp.

The next day a heavy artillery fire took place between the enemy's guns and ours, some of the shells bursting in camp. The enemy also directed a very heavy Pom-Pom fire and rifle fire on the S.A.L.H., picqueting the rocky kopje to the right rear. In the afternoon the fire was so hot on this kopje that 2 guns of the Royal Horse Artillery were unable to reply and remained undercover until dark.

On the 26th. the force marched towards Machadodorp. The regiment had to cover the movement on the right rear, occupying six trenches which had been held by the Infantry the day before.

A continual fire was kept up between us and the enemy from dawn until 5 o'clock in the afternoon, when Lord Dundonald ordered up Field and Machine guns to enable us to withdraw, which was done very well. Only No. 1 picquet had any casualties, 4 being wounded, though not dangerously, in withdrawing. We then moved into camp at Vogelstruitpoort, arriving long after dark.

All day the main column was heavily engaged on the right where the enemy held a strong position several thousand yards in extent. The artillery and rifle fire was of a very heavy character and continued until after dark.

The following day the regiment guarded the left rear and left flank of the column which moved very slowly to Bergendal. The fight of the previous day was resumed and towards night the infantry under cover of the artillery carried the position of the enemy at the point of the bayonet. Our losses, principally in the Rifle Brigade, was 85, 14 being killed.

Due credit must be given to the enemy for their tenacious defence.

On the 28th. our Brigade covered the advance the regiment supporting the Royal Horse Artillery. The movement to the front was rapid and about ten miles from camp we came in contact with the enemy. The regiment was under shell fire and was employed dismounted in moving from our position to another which finally resulted in the village of Machadodorp being carried by "A" Squadron under Captain Cartwright.

The regiment was assembled in the village while the rest of the Brigade moved to the next ridge. We then pushed forward supporting the advance and remaining close to the front undercover.

A very heavy artillery fire was kept up by the enemy and our own guns. The casualties in the regiment amounted to two slightly wounded by a shell. We were very fortunate in having so few.

The following day it was our duty to cover the advance of the Brigade which was the advance guard of the army.

The work was well done by every squadron sent out. "B" Squadron, under Major Jarvis, moved over the mountain range in front, which had been occupied by the Boers the previous day, and it was supposed that they were there still. They were supported by troops of the other squadrons, some of which entered the village of Helvetia before any other troops arrived, except a small patrol party of General French.

At this time our advance troops were two miles beyond the town.

The regiment was assembled here and took the right hand road towards Watervaalboven, "C" Squadron in advance. The leading troop was under rifle fire for a time but reconnoitred towards Watervaal Onder and Watervaal Boven, until General French came up. We then returned to Helvetia and encamped.

On the 30th. a portion of the army marched to Nooitgedacht, S.A.L.H. in advance. We halted on the heights some distance from the station and found that the British prisoners who had been at a laager at this place were released, and were streaming along the railway towards Watervaal Ouder.

Lieut. Leckie was sent to reconnoitre the town of Nooitgedacht and to communicate the fact to General French that the Brigade was on the heights. He took six men. The work was well done and Lt. Leckie and two of the men will get honourable mention. I enclose a copy of his report which pleased Gen. Buller very much. Lt. Leckie met General Buller who expressed his satisfaction with the work well done.

The country was very rough resembling parts of the rocky mountains, though not so lofty, but nearly so.

The General's object having been effected the Brigade returned as far as Vlucktfontein and halted there the next day.

On the 1st. inst. we commenced the march on Lydenburg, the 3rd Mtd. Brigade covering the front with the regiment in advance of the Brigade.

We came in contact with the enemy at Crocodile River. The Pom-Pom was brought up and the Boers pressed back.

We halted here for the night to enable the rest of the army to catch up. During the day the flankers of the corps captured several prisoners and gained valuable information regarding the enemy's movements which has since proven correct.

Yesterday the army was ordered to continue the march. The 3rd. Mtd. Brigade was again in advance with the S.A.L.H. in front. Strathcona's Horse moved in support of the guns. The Brigade, under Lord Dundonald, successfully reconnoitred the enemy's position, the Boers being forced to develop their strength. It is considered one of the best pieces of work of its kind in the campaign.

During the day we were exposed to one of the heaviest artillery fires of the war, as many as 300 high velocity shells falling.

Fortunately only one in the regiment was wounded. The Royal Horse Artillery has two men wounded and 19 horses, the 4th Division Mounted Infantry, one killed and 4 wounded, and the S.A.L.H. one man wounded.

The object having been attained the Brigade returned to camp after dark when the artillery fire ceased.

I have to report that the conduct of the men since my last report (under fire) has been admirable.

I have been informed that some of the men on baggage guard in the rear have been guilty of looting but so far I have not been able to get the names of the delinquents. I have, however, issued strict orders to prevent such a thing in future and have placed an officer and non-commissioned officer in charge of the men on duty in the rear.

Properly speaking it is not for me to say much about the behaviour of the regiment but I am satisfied that when you hear more from those higher in authority you will be pleased with the conduct on the whole.

I have the honour to be,

My Lord,

Your obedient servant,

(Signed) S. B. STEELE, Lt. Col.

Commanding, "Strathcona's Horse"

VLUCKSFONTEIN

August 31st. 1900.

From Lt. Leckie,

Strathcona Horse

To Officer Commanding

Strathcona Horse

Sir,

I have the honor to report that yesterday I went with 6 men to obtain information with regard to the movements of the enemy and of the released prisoners.

I left the regiment on the heights North of Nooitgedacht. The descent into the valley is very abrupt but I found a trail over which we could lead our horses. Horses had been brought over this trail a short time previously. There is a drop of about 2000 feet to the valley.

My first intention was to go to Nooitgedacht if possible, but was informed by a Kaffir that there were Boers there and along the line to Watervaal Ouder. He said that they had chased him and his horse showed signs of hard riding.

We hid our horses and I took one man with me and we went on carefully until I could get a good view of the country. We got up high in the direction of Watervaal Ouder and parties of the enemy could be seen riding along the road to Nooitgedacht and Watervaal Ouder. They seemed to have small parties stationed at different points on the road. I could see no guns or wagons in Nooitgedacht. I could see about 150 men drawn up in fair order apparently waiting for some movement.

At 5.p.m. a train came into Nooitgedacht from the East. Some men rode up to it and then 50 of them rode off Eastward. I could see no guns or wagons there.

At 6.30 the train was run into the station which is concealed by trees. The remainder of the troops rode off to the East and in a few minutes flames were seen about the station. I am of the opinion that either the train or the station was set on fire, possibly both.

As it was then dusk I took my men to Steyn's farm near the line. The house was surrounded and entered but no one found but two women, two children and a kaffir.

Double sentries were put on and we spent the night there. A party of Boers were camped at a section house across the river from us. They were on the move all night.

At daybreak we left Steyn's Farm and made for the railway. The wagon road runs beside it to Watervaal Ouder. We followed it on to Watervaal Ouder, arriving there at 9.a.m. I could see no damage done to the railway on the way. No persons were seen and I heard no shots fired.

We reached Watervaal Ouder at the same time as a party of French's Scouts who came from the North. They returned to camp about three miles to the North and we followed. A few shots were fired to the East of the town but I could see no signs of the enemy.

I reported to General Buller at Gen. Pole-Carew's camp and then came on here, reaching camp about 7.p.m.

The released prisoners were escorted to Watervaal Ouder by parties of Boers.

The prisoners report that about 2000 Boers passed through the town going to the Eastward. Within the past few days. They had six or seven guns, but no big ones. There were numbers of wagons and a lot of women and children.

President Kruger and Mr. Steyn passed through two days ago.

The imprisoned officers with a few exceptions and some of the Yeomanry were taken to Barberton.

The wagon road to Nooitgedacht, excepting one or two places is in good condition.

I have the honor to be, Sir,

Your obedient servant,

(Signed) J. E. LECKIE, Lt.

Good Day Matt....

These are all World War One pieces.....

The 160th Button is very good.....

Mike

Good Morning.......

He is listed as serving in the Boer War.....

Therefore the medal......

Hallett, H., 4649, Private, 20th Hussars, Orange Free State,Transvaal, South Africa 1901,South Africa 1902.

Mike

An finally.......

Mike

A couple more.......

A couple more.....

Good Evening Gentlemen.....

Found a fantastic album in a local garage sale......

A total of 21 (8x10) Pictures.....

Taken Lucknow 1910......

I don't know who took the pictures but the book was put together by P.G. EVRARD, 50, rue Secretan, Paris.....

Here is a sample.....

Mike

Here is another one that I really like......

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HmL3m2zcoOI

===============================

Rolf Harris - Two Little Boys

===============================

Two little boys had two little toys

Each had a wooden horse

Gaily they played each summer's day

Warriors both of course

One little chap then had a mishap

Broke off his horse's head

Wept for his toy then cried with joy

As his young playmate said

Did you think I would leave you crying

When there's room on my horse for two

Climb up here Jack and don't be crying

I can go just as fast with two

When we grow up we'll both be soldiers

And our horses will not be toys

And I wonder if we'll remember

When we were two little boys

Long years had passed, war came so fast

Bravely they marched away

Cannon roared loud, and in the mad crowd

Wounded and dying lay

Up goes a shout, a horse dashes out

Out from the ranks so blue

Gallops away to where Joe lay

Then came a voice he knew

Did you think I would leave you dying

When there's room on my horse for two

Climb up here Joe, we'll soon be flying

I can go just as fast with two

Did you say Joe I'm all a-tremble

Perhaps it's the battle's noise

But I think it's that I remember

When we were two little boys

Do you think I would leave you dying

There's room on my horse for two

Climb up here Joe, we'll soon by flying

Back to the ranks so blue

Can you feel Joe I'm all a tremble

Perhaps it's the battle's noise

But I think it's that I remember

When we were two little boys

Hi Kev.....

I saw one of these at auction about 6 months ago but it still had the rubber mouth piece...... Now you will have to forgive this old minf but if I remember rightly it went for 325 Pounds.......

Mike

Hi all!

no one can explain?

Oliver

Not into WW1 Victory Medals but here is my guess.....

CYP, Cyprus

FIJ, Fiji

WA, Western Australia

N, Natal

CI, Channel Islands

As I said just a guess......

Mike

Tommy

By R. Kipling

I went into a public-'ouse to get a pint o' beer,

The publican 'e up an' sez, "We serve no red-coats here."

The girls be'ind the bar they laughed an' giggled fit to die,

I outs into the street again an' to myself sez I:

O it's Tommy this, an' Tommy that, an' "Tommy, go away";

But it's "Thank you, Mister Atkins", when the band begins to play,

The band begins to play, my boys, the band begins to play,

O it's "Thank you, Mister Atkins", when the band begins to play.

I went into a theatre as sober as could be,

They gave a drunk civilian room, but 'adn't none for me;

They sent me to the gallery or round the music-'alls,

But when it comes to fightin', Lord! they'll shove me in the stalls!

For it's Tommy this, an' Tommy that, an' "Tommy, wait outside";

But it's "Special train for Atkins" when the trooper's on the tide,

The troopship's on the tide, my boys, the troopship's on the tide,

O it's "Special train for Atkins" when the trooper's on the tide.

Yes, makin' mock o' uniforms that guard you while you sleep

Is cheaper than them uniforms, an' they're starvation cheap;

An' hustlin' drunken soldiers when they're goin' large a bit

Is five times better business than paradin' in full kit.

Then it's Tommy this, an' Tommy that, an' "Tommy, 'ow's yer soul?"

But it's "Thin red line of 'eroes" when the drums begin to roll,

The drums begin to roll, my boys, the drums begin to roll,

O it's "Thin red line of 'eroes" when the drums begin to roll.

We aren't no thin red 'eroes, nor we aren't no blackguards too,

But single men in barricks, most remarkable like you;

An' if sometimes our conduck isn't all your fancy paints,

Why, single men in barricks don't grow into plaster saints;

While it's Tommy this, an' Tommy that, an' "Tommy, fall be'ind",

But it's "Please to walk in front, sir", when there's trouble in the wind,

There's trouble in the wind, my boys, there's trouble in the wind,

O it's "Please to walk in front, sir", when there's trouble in the wind.

You talk o' better food for us, an' schools, an' fires, an' all:

We'll wait for extry rations if you treat us rational.

Don't mess about the cook-room slops, but prove it to our face

The Widow's Uniform is not the soldier-man's disgrace.

For it's Tommy this, an' Tommy that, an' "Chuck him out, the brute!"

But it's "Saviour of 'is country" when the guns begin to shoot;

An' it's Tommy this, an' Tommy that, an' anything you please;

An' Tommy ain't a bloomin' fool -- you bet that Tommy sees!