Merton Beckwith-Smith facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Merton Beckwith-Smith
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Beckwith-Smith c. 1940
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| Nickname(s) | "Becky" |
| Born | 11 July 1890 Chelsea, London, England |
| Died | 11 November 1942 (aged 52) Karenko Concentration Camp, Taiwan |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army |
| Years of service | 1910–1942 |
| Rank | Major-General |
| Service number | 18095 |
| Unit | Coldstream Guards Welsh Guards |
| Commands held | 18th Infantry Division (1940–42) 1st Guards Brigade (1939–40) 1st Battalion, Welsh Guards (1932–34) |
| Battles/wars | First World War Second World War |
| Awards | Distinguished Service Order Military Cross Mentioned in Despatches (2) Croix de guerre (France) |
| Alma mater | Eton College Christ Church, Oxford |
Major-General Merton Beckwith-Smith (11 July 1890 – 11 November 1942) was a high-ranking officer in the British Army. He served bravely in both the First World War and the Second World War.
Contents
Early Life and Military Start
Merton Beckwith-Smith was born in Chelsea, London, on July 11, 1890. His father, Beckwith Smith, was a stockbroker.
He went to school at Eton College and then studied at Christ Church, Oxford.
In 1910, he joined the Coldstream Guards, a famous part of the British Army.
First World War Heroics
Beckwith-Smith served throughout the First World War. He became a staff officer in the Guards Division.
In October 1914, he led a daring night raid. His team attacked a German position called 'Fish Hook Trench'. This was the very first British trench raid of the war.
Even though he was just a lieutenant, the raid was a big success. He was wounded during the attack. For his bravery, he received the Distinguished Service Order (DSO). This is a very important military award.
In 1917, he was given the French Croix de Guerre, another award for bravery. He also received the Military Cross in the same year.
Between the Big Wars
After the First World War, Beckwith-Smith continued his military career. He commanded the Officers' Training Corps at the University of Oxford. This group trains future officers.
He also attended the Staff College, Camberley, a school for senior military leaders.
Later, he became the commanding officer of the Welsh Guards. He even took part in the Royal Procession for the Trooping the Colour ceremony in 1936 and 1937.
He also spent time serving in India, leading the Lahore Brigade.
Second World War Service
Fighting in France
In 1940, during the Second World War, Beckwith-Smith was given command of the 1st Guards Brigade. This brigade was part of the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) in France.
He later took command of the 1st Division.
During the Dunkirk Perimeter defense, he inspired his soldiers. He told them it was an "supreme honour" to be the rearguard. He also taught them how to shoot down German Luftwaffe planes. He even offered £5 to anyone who could bring one down!
For his service in France, he was mentioned in official reports for his good work.
After being evacuated to England, he took command of the 18th Infantry Division. He trained them for duty overseas.
The Battle for Singapore
In early 1942, Beckwith-Smith's division arrived in Singapore. Japanese forces invaded Singapore Island on February 8.
The Allied commander, Lieutenant-General Arthur Percival, surrendered all British and Commonwealth troops on February 15. This included Beckwith-Smith and his division.
Even as his headquarters burned, he remained calm and continued his duties.
Before being moved to a prisoner of war camp in Formosa in August 1942, he sent a message to his men. He thanked them for their service and encouraged them to "KEEP SMILING."
On November 11, 1942, Merton Beckwith-Smith died at Karenko Camp. He passed away from diphtheria while being held as a prisoner of war.
After the war, his remains were moved. He was reburied at the Sai Wan War Cemetery in Hong Kong. Years later, his grave was identified at the request of Diana, Princess of Wales.
Family Life
Merton Beckwith-Smith married Honor Dorothy Leigh in 1918. They lived at the Manor House, Stratton Audley.
He had four children: Peter, Rosemary, Sarah, and John. His daughter Katherine Sarah married Johnny Henderson. Their children include the famous British racehorse trainer Nicky Henderson. Another grandchild, Anne Beckwith-Smith, was a Lady-in-Waiting to Princess Diana.
