Extract
from "British Commanders in the Transvaal War 1899-1900"
published by W.D. & H.O. Wills Ltd:
MAJOR-GENERAL
H. J. T. HILDYARD
Is
among the list of those commanders who are daily gaining laurels for
distinguished service. He is a brave soldier with ample resource, which
has been repeatedly exemplified during the difficult tasks set Sir Redvers
Buller during December, January and February in Northern Natal.
The subject of our portrait at first intended to devote his life to
a naval career, but afterwards transferred from the Navy to the Army
in 1867. His first distinguished scene of service was the Egyptian Campaign
of 1882, when he was present at the battles of Kassassin and Tel-el-Kebir.
For bravery displayed during these actions, he received " mention"
in the despatches, medals, and promotion to the rank of Bt. Lieutenant
Colonel.
Commanding the Second Brigade of the first Division, he arrived at Durban
on November 13th last, and at once proceeded to the scene of operations
in the Tugela district. His Brigade has since experienced some of the
hardest fighting of the campaign, notably on November 23rd, when it
successfully attacked Beacon Hill ; and later, in our reverse at Colenso
in December. He played an important part in the movement which resulted
in the memorable capture of Spion Kop.