his message before
falling exhausted into the Imperial Light Horse trench. His unselfish
heroism was undoubtedly the means of saving several lives."

The gallant conduct of Colour-Sergeant Palmer was brought to notice
under the following circumstances: When three companies of the Regiment
were ordered to charge the ridge held by the enemy on Wagon Hill on
January 6th, 1900, Colour-Sergeant Gilbert Palmer was with the leading
company, and he at once dashed out to the front with most conspicuous
bravery, and went straight for the point from which the heaviest fire
was coming. The enemy ran before they were reached, but the three
companies were exposed to a galling fire from the right, left, and
front. Colour-Sergeant Palmer got behind a rock and shot several of the
enemy, at the same time keeping a constant eye upon his own men, telling
them when and where to fire, and when to take cover. When all the
company officers were either killed or wounded, he at once recognized
his position as senior non-commissioned officer, and was invaluable in
getting orders passed to the other companies, and in superintending the
men till dark, when the enemy retired. He then, acting under orders,
personally placed the outpost line, saw to the collection of the dead
and wounded, and, in fact, rendered invaluable assistance in every way.

His dash and pluck during the bayonet charge, his coolness and steady
courage under a heavy cross fire, and the power of command and of quick
and correct judgment displayed by him were most brilliant.
Colour-Sergeant Palmer's name was previously brought to notice for
gallant conduct at the battle of Elandslaagte on October 21st, 1899, so
that this made the second occasion on which he conspicuously
distinguished himself.

The names of the following non-commissioned officers and men were also
brought to notice for gallantry on the occasion:--

Lance-Corporal Gilbert Young.
" " Frank John Rowe.
Private Henry Brimmicombe.
" R.G. Hansford.
" E. Norman.
" H. Cox.

The following message from Her Majesty the Queen was received by Sir
George White for promulgation:--

"To Sir George White,

"Ladysmith.

"Warmly congratulate you and all under your command on your brilliant
success. Greatly admire conduct of Devonshire Regiment.

V.R.I."

The following telegram was also received:--

"O/C Devon Regiment,

"Railway Cutting.

"G.O.C. directs me to convey direct to you the