Cyril Raikes facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Cyril Probyn Napier Raikes
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![]() Major Cyril Raikes
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Born | 12 November 1875 Swanmore, Hampshire, England |
Died | 16 January 1963 Sidmouth, Devon, England |
Service/ |
Royal Engineers |
Rank | Major |
Battles/wars | Boer War World War I, Mesopotamian Campaign |
Awards | Military Cross (World War I) Boer War with four bars |
Other work | Director British Oxygen Company |
Cyril Probyn Napier Raikes (1875–1963) was a brave officer in the British Army. He was known for his service in two major wars. During World War I, he received a special award called the Military Cross. He earned this award while working with the Royal Engineers in a place called Mesopotamia. His job was to fly planes and watch over important oil pipelines. Before that, he also fought in the Boer War.
Contents
Who Was Cyril Raikes?
Cyril Raikes was born on November 12, 1875. His birthplace was Swanmore in Hampshire, England. His father was General Robert Napier Raikes. Cyril followed in his father's footsteps by joining the army.
Early Life and Military Service
Cyril Raikes started his military career as a Lieutenant. He fought in the Boer War in South Africa from 1900 to 1902. For his service, he received a medal with four special bars. These bars showed his bravery and dedication.
Before World War I began, Cyril used his engineering skills in Egypt. He helped to develop important water services there. This work was vital for the people living in the region.
Adventures in Business
After his military service, Cyril Raikes joined the British Oxygen Company. He became their Overseas Director. This job meant he traveled a lot. He visited many countries around the world.
He went to the Middle East, Europe, South Africa, and South America. His goal was to help the company grow its business. He was a true global traveler for his work.
Later Years and Legacy
Cyril Raikes lived in Godalming, Surrey, for some time. During World War II, he continued to work for the British Oxygen Company. He also volunteered as a fire watcher in London. This was a very important job during the war. He even helped watch for fires from the top of St Paul's Cathedral.
Later in his life, he moved to Sidbury and then to Sidmouth, both in Devon. He passed away on January 16, 1963. Cyril Raikes married Dora Roberts in 1905. They had two daughters together. He is remembered for his service in the army and his work in business.