Roderick Sinclair, 19th Earl of Caithness facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Earl of Caithness
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Brigadier James Sinclair
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| Born | 29 September 1906 |
| Died | 8 May 1965 (aged 58) |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom Ceylon |
| Service/ |
.svg){kind=small} British Army.svg){kind=small} Ceylon Army |
| Years of service | ?-1955 |
| Rank | Brigadier |
| Service number | 36869 |
| Unit | Gordon Highlanders |
| Commands held | 153rd Infantry Brigade Commander of Ceylon Army 51st Infantry Brigade |
| Battles/wars | World War II |
| Relations | Lord Berriedale (son) |
Brigadier James Roderick Sinclair, 19th Earl of Caithness (born September 29, 1906 – died May 8, 1965) was an important officer in the British Army. He served during World War II and was also the chief of Clan Sinclair, a historic Scottish clan.
Contents
A Life of Service
James Sinclair had a very interesting life, serving his country and leading people. He was known for his bravery and leadership.
Early Military Career
James Sinclair joined a famous British Army group called the Gordon Highlanders. He worked hard and rose through the ranks to become a Brigadier. A Brigadier is a high-ranking officer, like a general, who commands many soldiers.
During World War II, he led his regiment through many countries. These included France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and into Germany. For his brave actions and leadership, he received special awards. These included the Distinguished Service Order and being made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire.
Leading the Ceylon Army
After World War II, James Sinclair took on a new and very important role. In 1949, he became the first Commander of the Ceylon Army. Ceylon is now known as Sri Lanka.
His job was to help create a modern, regular army for Ceylon. Before this, their defense force was mostly made up of volunteers. He worked hard from 1949 until 1952 to build up this new army.
Life After the Army
After his time in Ceylon, James Sinclair returned to the United Kingdom. He had several important jobs in England and Scotland. In 1955, he took on a unique role. He became the land agent and manager for Her Majesty The Queen's private estate at Balmoral Castle. This famous castle is in Scotland. He lived and worked there until he passed away.
Even after leaving the army, he remained connected to his old regiment. He was appointed the Colonel of the Gordon Highlanders, which is a special honorary position.
Family and Legacy
James Sinclair became the 19th Earl of Caithness after his uncle, who had no sons, passed away. This meant he inherited the title and became the chief of Clan Sinclair.
He had three daughters from his first marriage. His first wife passed away during the war. In 1946, he married Gabrielle Ormerod. She was a widow whose husband had died in Africa during the war. Together, they had two more children: a daughter named Bridget and a son named Malcolm.
When James Sinclair passed away on May 8, 1965, his son Malcolm became the 20th Earl of Caithness. He also took on the role of chief of Clan Sinclair.
Images for kids
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Guard of Honor for Brigadier James Sinclair, Earl of Caithness, held by Major B.R. Heyn.
