James Turner Cummins facts for kids

James Turner Cummins (born October 12, 1843 – died October 24, 1912) was an important British army officer. He served in the Indian Army, which was the army of British India. He reached the high rank of Major-General.

Early Life and Army Start

James Turner Cummins was born in Cork, Ireland, in 1842. His father was Nicholas Cummins. James went to school at Cheltenham College and then to Addiscombe Military Seminary. This was a special school for training army officers.

In 1861, after finishing his training, he joined the Madras Army. This was one of the three main armies in British India. He was promoted to captain in 1873, showing his progress in the army.

Serving in Different Conflicts

In 1875, Cummins moved to a special part of the Madras Army called the Madras Staff Corps. He then took part in several important wars and expeditions.

From 1878 to 1880, he served in the Second Anglo-Afghan War. This was a conflict in Afghanistan. Later, in 1882, he was part of the Anglo-Egyptian War in Egypt. He became a major in 1883.

In 1885, he joined the Suakin Expedition and also fought in the Third Anglo-Burmese War. During this war, his actions were praised twice in official reports.

Rising Through the Ranks

After these campaigns, James Cummins was given a high-ranking job. He became an Assistant Adjutant-General for the Madras Force. This meant he was a senior helper for the army's administration.

He continued to be promoted, becoming a lieutenant colonel in 1887 and a full colonel in 1894. Between 1895 and 1900, he was in charge of a military district.

In 1900, during the Boxer Rebellion in China, he commanded the 4th Infantry Brigade. His brigade was also praised for its actions during this conflict.

Retirement and Later Years

In 1901, James Cummins received a special award called the Companion of the Bath. This was a recognition of his long and distinguished service.

He retired from the army in 1903 and moved back to England. The next year, he was given an honorary role as a colonel for a cavalry unit called the 30th Lancers (Gordon's Horse).

James Turner Cummins spent his last years in London, where he passed away in 1912. He had married Louisa Dunman in 1869, and they had two sons, Harry and Earnest.