LIEUTENANT-GENERAL
THOMAS
KELLY-KENNY

Extract from "British Commanders in the Transvaal War 1899-1900" published by W.D. & H.O. Wills Ltd:

LIEUT.-GENERAL THOMAS KELLY-KENNY.

Very few officers now on the active list have gained such experience in both regimental duty, and high staff appointments as Lieut.-General Kelly-Kenny, who is commanding the Sixth Division in South Africa.

Born in 1840, and entering the 2nd Queen's in 1858, he was distinctly fortunate in doing service two years later in China. In the Abyssinian Expedition of 1867-8, he was in command of a division of the transport train, and received " mention " in despatches. Since then he has filled many responsible home appointments.

Upon the Boer War assuming a graver aspect Lieut.-General Kelly-Kenny and his staff left Southampton, December 23rd, 1899, in company with Lord Roberts. Arriving on January 10th, he proceeded to the North of Cape Colony to co-operate with the forces of Generals French and Gatacre. It was soon evident that he was about to play an important part in Lord Roberts' new plan of action, for on February 15th he had taken up General French's position, leaving the latter free to accomplish the movement which led to the memorable relief of Kimberley the same evening.

Lieut.-General Kelly-Kenny's Brigade had developed a remarkable power of mobility, so much so that it succeeded in pursuing the Boer Army retreating towards Bloemfontein, and in capturing a large convoy of 78 wagons. Continuing the pursuit, General Cronje's army of 5,000 was brought to bay at Koodoosrand, and after desperate resistance, was compelled to unconditionally surrender on February 28th.

As a result of his splendid assistance, he may certainly claim to rank as one of our ablest generals.