5th Battalion, Royal Scots facts for kids

The 5th Volunteer Battalion was a special group of volunteer soldiers who were part of the Royal Scots army regiment. They existed from 1859 to 1908. This battalion took part in a big conflict called The Second Boer War and earned a special award for their bravery during that war.

Quick facts for kids 5th Volunteer Battalion, The Royal Scots
Active	1859 - 1908
Country	United Kingdom
Branch	British Army
Type	Reserve Infantry
Role	Infantry Reserve Support
Size	Battalion and 12 Companies
Garrison/HQ	Leith
Engagements	South Africa 1900 - 1902
Commanders
Honorary Colonel	R. C. Maclagan, VD.

A Brief History of the Battalion

The 5th Volunteer Battalion started on August 6, 1859. About 153 men from Leith formed two new groups of soldiers. By December, these groups became known as the "1st Mid-Lothian (Leith) Rifle Volunteer Corps," with four companies.

How the Battalion Grew

In 1863, another group, the 4th Mid-Lothian (Corstorphine) Rifle Volunteer Corps, joined them. This created three new companies: the 9th, 10th, and 11th. In 1884, the battalion was reorganized and had 10 companies.

Joining the Royal Scots

Later, in 1888, this volunteer group officially joined the famous Royal Scots regiment. They became known as the 5th Volunteer Battalion.

Serving in the Boer War

During the South African War (also known as the Boer War), 196 members of the 5th Volunteer Battalion served with the Royal Scots. Some soldiers were recognized for their bravery. Captain Campbell and Corporal T. H. Greg were "Mentioned in dispatches", which means their brave actions were officially noted. They later received the Distinguished Conduct Medal, a special award for courage. Private J. G. Lockhard from No. 3 company was also "Mentioned in dispatches" for his actions.

What Happened Next

After 1908, the 5th Volunteer Battalion was no longer a separate unit. Its members joined a new army group called the Territorial Force. However, the traditions and history of the 5th Battalion were carried on by other battalions, like the 5th and later the 7th battalions of the Royal Scots.

How the Battalion Was Organized in 1868

In 1868, the 5th Volunteer Battalion was at its largest. It had 12 different companies, or groups of soldiers.

• Headquarters - Located at Leith Walk
  • No. 1 Company - Based in Leith
  • No. 2 Company - Based in Leith
  • No. 3 Company - Based in Leith
  • No. 4 Company - Based in Leith
  • No. 5 Company - Based in Leith
  • No. 6 Company - Based in Leith
  • No. 7 Company - Based in Leith
  • No. 8 Company - Based in Leith
  • No. 9 Company - Based in Leith
  • No. 10 Company - Based in Leith
  • No. 11 Company - Based in Leith
  • The Band of the 1st Mid-Lothian Rifle Volunteer Corps - This was the battalion's musical band.

In 1901, there was also a special 10th Company that used bicycles, known as a Cyclist company.