Edward Bruce, 10th Earl of Elgin facts for kids
Edward James Bruce, the 10th Earl of Elgin and 14th Earl of Kincardine, was an important Scottish leader. He was born on June 9, 1881, and passed away on November 27, 1968, at 87 years old. He followed in his father's footsteps, becoming a director at the Royal Bank of Scotland. Lord Elgin was also a respected military officer and held many important roles throughout his life.
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Edward Bruce's Early Life and Military Career
Edward Bruce started his military journey as a captain. He served in the Forfar and Kincardine Royal Garrison Artillery Militia. In 1908, when the Territorial Force was created, he became a Major. He led the Highland (Fifeshire) Heavy Battery, RGA.
Service in World War I
When World War I began, Edward Bruce was still leading his battery. He served bravely during the war. He rose to the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel. His actions were recognized twice when he was mentioned in dispatches. This means his bravery was officially noted. After the war, he received the CMG award. From 1918 to 1919, he also worked as an assistant director of Labour.
Family Life
On January 5, 1921, Edward Bruce married Katherine Cochrane. Her father was Lt.-Col. Thomas Cochrane. In 1938, Katherine was honored with the title of Dame Commander. This was for her own important work.
Edward and Katherine's Children
The couple had six children together:
- Lady Martha Veronica Bruce (born 1921) became a governor of prisons.
- Lady Jean Christian Bruce (born 1923).
- Andrew Bruce (born 1924) later became the 11th Earl of Elgin.
- Hon. James Michael Edward Bruce (born 1927).
- Lady Alison Margaret Bruce (born 1931).
- Hon. Edward David Bruce (born 1936).
Important Roles and Honors
Edward Bruce received many honors for his service. On June 3, 1933, he was made a Knight of the Thistle. This is Scotland's highest award for chivalry. He also received the Order of Polonia Restituta.
Leadership During World War II
When the Scottish Home Guard was formed in January 1941, Edward Bruce took on another big role. He became the commander of No. 3 Zone. This area included Fife and Kinross-shire. He held this important position until the end of World War II.
Honorary Military Positions
As a Colonel in the Territorial Reserve, Lord Elgin held several honorary positions. These included:
- Honorary Colonel of the City of Edinburgh (Fortress) Royal Engineers.
- Honorary Colonel of the Elgin Regiment (RCAC) in Canada.
- Honorary Colonel of the 71st (Forth) Heavy Anti-Aircraft Regiment.
- Honorary Colonel of the 357th Medium Regiment (Lothians).
- Honorary Air Commodore of No 948 Balloon Squadron, Royal Auxiliary Air Force.
Other Notable Contributions
Lord Elgin was also a Lieutenant of the Royal Company of Archers. This group serves as the Queen's Bodyguard for Scotland. In 1964, he helped create a statue of Robert the Bruce. This famous Scottish king is known for his bravery.
Gift to the Grand Lodge of California
In 1958, Lord Elgin visited San Francisco, USA. He presented a special gift to the Grand Lodge of California. It was a marshal's baton made from Scottish Oak. This baton is still used today in important ceremonies. It reminds everyone of the friendship between Scotland and California.
Images for kids
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Lord Elgin presenting a golden key to Vice Admiral Sir Charles Gordon Ramsey.
