Alexander Telfer-Smollett facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Alexander Telfer-Smollett
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|---|---|
| Nickname(s) | "Alec" |
| Born | 12 August 1884 |
| Died | 1954 (aged 69−70) |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1904−1942 |
| Rank | Major-General |
| Service number | 522 |
| Unit | Highland Light Infantry |
| Commands held | 1st Battalion, Highland Light Infantry 157th (Highland Light Infantry) Brigade |
| Battles/wars | World War I Russian Civil War World War II |
| Awards | Companion of the Order of the Bath Commander of the Order of the British Empire Distinguished Service Order Military Cross |
Alexander Patrick Drummond Telfer-Smollett was a brave British Army officer. He was born on August 12, 1884, and passed away in 1954. He rose to the rank of Major-General. Later in his life, he even became the Lieutenant Governor of Guernsey, which is an island.
A Life in the Army
Alexander Telfer-Smollett started his army journey in 1904. He trained at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst. After his training, he joined a famous Scottish regiment called the Highland Light Infantry.
Serving in World War I
He fought bravely in World War I. He earned the Military Cross for his courage. In 1918, he led his regiment to victory at the Battle of Cambrai. For his leadership, he received the Distinguished Service Order in 1919. After the war, he also served in the Russian Civil War in North Russia.
Between the World Wars
"Alec," as he was known, stayed in the army. From 1920 to 1921, he attended the Staff College, Camberley. This is where officers learn advanced military planning. He worked at the War Office from 1925 to 1929. This office helps manage the army.
He then served as a senior officer with the Royal West African Frontier Force. From 1931 to 1934, he was the commanding officer of the 1st Battalion, Highland Light Infantry. He then led the 157th (Highland Light Infantry) Brigade until 1935.
World War II and Beyond
In 1936, he became the Commanding Officer of British Troops in Shanghai. During the Second Sino-Japanese War in 1937, he helped Chinese forces withdraw safely during the Defense of Sihang Warehouse.
In 1939, he became the Lieutenant Governor of Guernsey. This is a special role, like being a governor of an island. During World War II, he served as a District Commander in the UK from 1940 until he retired in 1942.
After retiring, he lived at Cameron House in Scotland. He became the Lord Lieutenant of Dunbartonshire. This is a representative of the King or Queen in a county. He was also the Colonel of the Highland Light Infantry.
