Francis Spring Walker facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Francis Spring Walker CBE FRCS
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| Born | 6 January 1876 Glanbehy, County Kerry, Ireland |
| Died | 24 June 1941 (aged 65) Caragh Lake, County Kerry, Ireland |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1900-1922 |
| Rank | Lieutenant-Colonel |
| Battles/wars | Second Boer War First World War |
| Awards | Commander of the Order of the British Empire, Mention in Dispatches |
Francis Spring Walker was a brave British Army officer. He served as a doctor in the army during two major wars. These were the Second Boer War and the First World War. He was recognized for his courage and dedication.
Contents
Who Was Francis Spring Walker?
Francis Spring Walker was born in 1876 in County Kerry, Ireland. His family was well-known in the area. He grew up to become a very important military doctor.
Early Life and Education
Francis studied medicine at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. He also attended Trinity College in Dublin. He earned his medical diploma in 1898. This prepared him for a career helping people.
Serving in the Army
In 1900, Francis joined the Royal Army Medical Corps. This is the part of the British Army where doctors and medical staff work. He was sent to South Africa to serve in the Second Boer War. He worked in the Orange River Colony and Cape Colony. Sadly, he became ill and had to return home.
After recovering, Francis served in British India from 1902 to 1908. He was promoted to Captain in 1903. Later, in 1912, he became a Major. These promotions showed his hard work and skill.
World War I Heroics
When the First World War began in 1914, Francis was ready to serve again. He went to France with the British Army. He worked with the 16th Field Ambulance unit. This unit helped injured soldiers on the battlefield.
In 1915, he was recognized for his bravery. He was "Mentioned in Dispatches" for the first time. This means his commanders officially noted his excellent service. He then served in the Gallipoli Campaign. He was a medical officer on a hospital ship. He also commanded a camp for recovering soldiers in Malta.
Later, he worked at military hospitals in the UK. He was promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel in 1917.
Awards and Retirement
Francis Spring Walker received a high honor in 1919. He was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire. This award recognizes great service to the country. He was also "Mentioned in Dispatches" two more times that year.
He retired from the army in 1920. However, he remained ready to serve if needed until 1922. Francis returned to Ireland, where he passed away in 1941. He is remembered for his dedicated service as a military doctor.
