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General => Armed Forces => Topic started by: poplarman on Thursday 24 May 12 11:43 BST (UK)

Title: Boer War Grave 1901
Post by: poplarman on Thursday 24 May 12 11:43 BST (UK)

Hello. I've been sent photographs of the gravestone of a Private 'Harry Westlake' died March 1901 in Ventersdorp, South Africa. He was 14th (The King's Hussars).

I'm keen to learn more about Mr Westlake. I've searched some records and found reference to a 'G' Westlake - the date of death coincides so this probably is the right person.

If anyone can help provide further information it would be very much appreciated.

Thank you

Title: Re: Boer War Grave 1901
Post by: km1971 on Thursday 24 May 12 19:48 BST (UK)

He is listed as 3818 Private G Westlake in the medal roll and casualty list. From the number he joined May 1898, so too late to find him in a muster. They would not have kept his service record. So unless you can find a memorial to him, you may have few options for further research.

Ken

Title: Re: Boer War Grave 1901
Post by: ladysmith on Wednesday 30 May 12 10:10 BST (UK)

The medal roll shows he was awarded the Queen's South Africa Medal with clasps Cape Colony, Tugela Heights, Orange Free State, Relief of Ladysmith, Johannesburg, Diamond Hill & Belfast. This is a superb 7 clasp medal with a very unusual combination of clasps.

I can also add that he served in 'A' squadron and was aged 28 when he died.

David