Theodore Fraser facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Major-General Sir Theodore Fraser
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|---|---|
| Born | 15 June 1865 Inverness, Scotland |
| Died | 22 May 1953 (aged 87) Putney, London |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Major-General |
| Unit | Royal Engineers |
| Awards | Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath Companion of the Order of the Star of India Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George |
Sir Theodore Fraser (born June 15, 1865 – died May 22, 1953) was a brave British soldier. He became a Major-General in the Royal Engineers. He spent most of his military career serving with the Indian Army. He was known for his leadership in many important missions.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Theodore Fraser was born in Inverness, Scotland, on June 15, 1865. His father was Rev Prof Donald Fraser, and his mother was Theresa Eliza Isabella Gordon. His grandfather was also a Major-General in the Royal Engineers.
His family moved to London in 1870. His father became a well-known leader in the Presbyterian Church. Theodore went to University College School. Later, he studied at Clare College, Cambridge. He joined the Royal Engineers in February 1886.
Military Adventures and Service
Theodore Fraser quickly gained experience in frontier warfare. He joined the Chin-Lushai expedition in 1889–90. He also served in the Hazara expedition in 1891. He became a captain in 1896.
He was an adjutant during the Tirah campaign in 1897–98. In 1900, he went to South Africa for the Second Boer War. He worked as a Special Service Officer. He served in different areas like Cape Colony and Orange Free State.
Rising Through the Ranks
In 1901, he attended the Staff College. He was promoted to major in September 1904. He became a Deputy Assistant Adjutant General in Bombay. Later, he worked at the British Army headquarters in Simla.
In 1909, he became a professor at the Command and Staff College in Quetta. He taught young officers there for three years. He was promoted to lieutenant-colonel in December 1912.
World War I and Beyond
During World War I, Fraser wanted to be on the front lines. However, he was first given an administrative role. In March 1915, he joined the Lahore Division in France. He served in battles like "Second Ypres" and Aubers Ridge.
In May 1916, he became a General Staff Officer for the 15th (Indian) Division. He was later transferred to the III Corps. He led the Corps through the Battle of Kut. He also helped with the capture of Baghdad. He was promoted to colonel in December 1917.
From February to April 1918, he acted as Chief of the General Staff. He worked with General William Marshall.
Leading Divisions and Campaigns
In September 1918, he took command of the 15th Division. He then commanded the 18th Division in March 1919. He was promoted to Major-General in June 1919.
While with the 18th Division, he led the "South Kurdistan Force." They operated against Shaikh Mahmud Barzanji, who was leading a rebellion. Fraser's forces captured Barzanji. He was also involved in other Kurdistan operations until 1921.
From March to November 1922, he commanded forces in Iraq. In May 1924, he became the General Officer Commanding (GOC) Malaya Command. He served in Singapore for three years. He retired on June 9, 1927.
Family Life and Later Years
Sir Theodore Fraser married Constance Ruth Stevenson in June 1903. They were married at Marylebone Parish Church.
He passed away in a nursing home in Putney, London, on May 22, 1953. He was 87 years old.
