Masonic Jewel with Victoria Cross

[Humber]

[attachmentid=29977][attachmentid=29978]

Earl Roberts Lodge No. 3151, consecrated 1906, meeting in the Imperial Hotel, Russel Sq. London

Earl Roberts was a Field Marshal who was born in India and served most of his military career there. He rose to Major-General in the Afghan War (1878-1880) and served as Commander-in-Chief in India (1885-1893). He was awarded the Victoria Cross and served as Commander-in-Chief of the British army from 1900-1904.

[wm5806]

And here's a picture of Lord Roberts of Kabul and Kandahar on his Celebrated Charger (From Harper's Magazine, European Edition, December 1897).

[attachmentid=29982]

[wm5806]

His VC citation stated:

On 2 January 1858 at Khodagunge, India, on following up the retreating enemy, Lieutenant Roberts saw in the distance two sepoys going away with a standard. He immediately gave chase, overtaking them just as they were about to enter a village. Although one of them fired at him the lieutenant was not hit and he took possession of the standard, cutting down the man who was carrying it. He had also on the same day saved the life of a sowar who was being attacked by a sepoy.

Interestingly his son, Lieutenant The Hon F H S Roberts, of the King's Royal Rifle Corps, also won a VC (South African War: December 15, 1899).

An incredibly brave family.

Does anyone know the Masonic 'careers' of this father and son?