Arthur Edward Barstow facts for kids

Major-General Arthur Edward "Bustling Bill" Barstow (born March 17, 1888 – died January 28, 1942) was a brave officer in the British Indian Army. He led the 9th Indian Division during the Battle of Malaya in the Second World War. Sadly, he was killed in action by Japanese forces in 1942 while trying to cross a damaged railway bridge.

Arthur Barstow's Early Life

Arthur Barstow was born in Edinburgh, Scotland. His family had a long history of serving in the army. His father, Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Barstow, was also an army officer. Arthur went to Bradfield College and then to the Royal Military College, Sandhurst. This was a special school for training army officers.

Arthur had several siblings who also served. His brother, Brigadier John Barstow, was an officer who died in 1941. Another brother, Lieutenant Edmund Barstow, was killed in 1917. Arthur's sister, Primrose, was the mother of a famous pilot named Group Captain Leonard Cheshire.

In 1927, Arthur married Nancy Lewkenor Knight. Nancy later helped to create a charity called Leonard Cheshire Disability. This charity supports people with disabilities.

Arthur Barstow's Military Career

Arthur Barstow officially joined the British Army in 1908. A year later, he became an officer in the Indian Army. From 1910 to 1919, he served with the 15th Ludhiana Sikhs regiment.

Serving in World War I

During the First World War, Arthur fought on the Western Front. This was a major battle area in Europe. He was recognized for his bravery and received the Military Cross award. He was also wounded during the war and mentioned in official reports for his good service.

Between the World Wars

After the First World War, Arthur served in other conflicts. He was part of the forces during the 1920 Iraqi revolt. He also attended a special training school for army leaders. From 1933 to 1935, he was the Commanding Officer of the 2nd Battalion, 11th Sikh Regiment.

World War II and Malaya

When the Second World War began, Arthur was a commander in India. He was given another important award for his service. In September 1940, he became the leader of the 9th Indian Division.

His division fought in the early parts of the Malayan campaign. This was a difficult fight against the Japanese army. On January 28, 1942, Arthur was trying to reach one of his brigades. This group of soldiers was cut off from the main British forces. While trying to cross a destroyed railway bridge, he was killed by Japanese soldiers.

The 9th Indian Division suffered many losses during the fighting. The remaining soldiers later joined other divisions. Eventually, many British and Australian forces surrendered in Singapore.

See Also

• British Indian Army
• Malayan campaign
• Second World War