Skipwith Edward Tayler

Discussion in 'British Indian Army' started by drailton, Jun 11, 2012.

  1. drailton

    drailton Senior Member

    I see references to this man in the London Gazette being promoted to Lieutenant in the Garhwal Rifles in 1916 but after that nothing in the Gazette. I have, however, seen a separate reference to Lt Col Skipwith Edward Tayler being awarded the DSO in 1941.

    Can anyone tell me any more about him particularly after 1941.
     
  2. sol

    sol Very Senior Member

    Lt.Col. Skipwith Edward Tayler
    3rd Battalion, 18th Royal Garhwal Rifles

    The Distinguished Service Medal

    Lt. Col. S.E. Tayler commanded the assault on Gallabat Fort and throughout the attack displayed courage and leadership of the highest order. the success of the attack was largely due to his personal example. Later he was placed in command of all troops on the Gallabat position. Subjected to prolonged and intensive air bombardment he invariably remained cool and imperturbable. He displayed at the time they were most needed outstanding qualities as a commander.

    LG 31.01.1941
     
  3. sol

    sol Very Senior Member

  4. sol

    sol Very Senior Member

    From book "Slim - Unofficial History"

    Coming to meet us was a younger edition of Mr. Pickwick - chubby figure, cherubic face, gleaming spectacles, genial smile and all, surmounted by a slouch hat. 'Snap' Taylor, the colonel of the Garhwalis, was easily recognizable not only because of his Dickensian appearance but because, whatever the circumstances, he always looked fresh, cheerful, alert and completely unruffled. Battalions are as good as their commanding officers; he was a very good one indeed.

    He was mention several times in the chapter about the battle at Gallabat.
     
  5. drailton

    drailton Senior Member

    Thanks for your replies, Sol. Sounds like just the sort of chap I would like to have as my CO.
     

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