Walter Roberts (diplomat) facts for kids

Sir Walter Roberts (born December 14, 1893 – died November 18, 1978) was a very important British diplomat. A diplomat is someone who represents their country and helps manage relationships with other nations. Sir Walter worked for the United Kingdom, serving in many different parts of the world. He was the only son of Judge Roberts, who was a judge in a court called Clerkenwell County Court.

A Life of Service: Sir Walter Roberts' Career

Early Life and Becoming a War Hero

Walter St Clair Howland Roberts went to school at Winchester College, a famous boarding school. He then studied at Brasenose College, Oxford, which is part of the well-known University of Oxford. He also started training to be a lawyer at a place called the Middle Temple in 1914, but he decided not to become a lawyer later on.

During the First World War, which lasted from 1914 to 1918, Walter Roberts faced great challenges. He was captured and became a prisoner of war from 1914 to 1916. After being released, he joined the Royal Field Artillery from 1917 to 1919. This was a part of the army that used large guns.

In 1918, he was awarded the Military Cross, a special medal given for bravery in battle. The award recognized his amazing courage. It said that when his army unit was under heavy attack from enemy shells, he showed incredible bravery. His calm and fearless actions inspired everyone around him, and because of his cool head, all the big guns were saved from being destroyed.

Working for His Country: A Diplomat's Journey

After the war, Walter Roberts joined the Foreign Office in 1919. The Foreign Office is the part of the British government that deals with other countries and their governments. It's where diplomats work to build good relationships and solve problems between nations.

He held important positions within the Foreign Office. From 1936 to 1939, he was in charge of the Western Europe Department, dealing with countries like France and Germany. During the Second World War, from 1941 to 1945, he led the Prisoner of War Department. This was a very important job, helping to look after British soldiers who had been captured by the enemy.

After the wars, Sir Walter became an ambassador and minister, representing the UK in different countries:

• He was the British Ambassador to Peru from 1945 to 1948. An ambassador is the highest-ranking diplomat sent by one country to another.
• He then served as the Minister to Romania from 1949 to 1951. A minister is also a high-ranking diplomat, similar to an ambassador.
• His final role was as the Minister to the Holy See from 1951 to 1953. The Holy See is the government of the Catholic Church, based in Vatican City.

Awards and Special Honors

For his long and dedicated service to his country, Walter Roberts received several important honors:

• He was made a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG) in 1937. This is an award given to people who have done great service for the United Kingdom in foreign affairs.
• In 1951, he was knighted as a Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG). This meant he could use the title "Sir" before his name.
• In 1974, he was also made an Officer of the Order of St John. This is a royal order of chivalry that recognizes people who have contributed to health and humanitarian work.