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Frank van Hallen
Seneschal of Gascony
Arms of Frank van Hallen (d.1375).svg
Arms of Frank van Hallen: Gules, a lion rampant or, crowned azure.
Died 1375
Buried St. Rumbold's Cathedral, Mechelen, Belgium
Father John de Mirabello
CoA Franke Van Hale
Arms of Sir Franke Van Hallen, KG. as they appear on his garter stall plate in St. George's chapel (known to be incorrect).

Frank van Hallen (died 1375) was a brave soldier from Brabant (a region in what is now Belgium). He served King Edward III of England in the 1300s. People also knew him as Frank de la Halle or Frank de Hale. He held an important job called the Seneschal of Gascony. This meant he was a top official in charge of the Gascony region for the English king. He was also a Knight of the Garter, which was a very special award for knights.

Life and Military Service

Frank van Hallen was a key figure in several important battles and events during his time. His military skills helped the English king in many ways.

The Siege of Auberoche Castle

In 1345, Frank van Hallen was the commander of the soldiers defending Auberoche Castle. A large French army, led by Louis of Poitiers, surrounded the castle. This was called a siege, where an army tries to take a castle by cutting it off.

An English and Gascon army, led by Henry, Earl of Derby, came to help. They surprised the French army attacking the castle. When Frank van Hallen saw that the French soldiers guarding his castle were busy fighting elsewhere, he acted fast.

He led all the mounted soldiers he could gather out of the castle. They charged into the back of the French forces. This surprise attack helped the English army greatly. The French soldiers were defeated and chased away.

Important Roles and Awards

Frank van Hallen continued to serve King Edward III with loyalty and bravery.

Seneschal of Gascony

On June 20, 1349, Frank van Hallen was given the important job of Seneschal of Gascony. This role meant he was the king's main representative and military leader in the region of Gascony, which was then controlled by England.

Battle of Poitiers

He fought in the famous battle of Poitiers in 1356. This was a major battle during the Hundred Years' War between England and France.

Knight of the Garter

In 1359, Frank van Hallen received a very high honor. He was made a Knight of the Garter. This is one of the oldest and most respected awards for knights in England. It showed that he was a highly trusted and brave warrior.

Family Life

Frank van Hallen was married three times during his life. He also had several sons.

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