More about Edwin Hogg Deas

Edwin H. Deas M.C.   Captain   Scottish Horse

Promoted.

His many friends in the city will learn with pleasure that Mr Edwin H. Deas, son of Mr James Deas, hatter and hosier, Commercial Street, Dundee, has received a commission.  Mr Deas, who was engaged in the City Engineer’s Office, joined the colours shortly after war broke out, throwing in his lot with the Scottish Horse.  He rapidly rose to the rank of sergeant, and he has just gone South to make up a Lieutenancy in the 2d Cavalry Brigade.

Dundee Peoples Journal 21st August 1916

BROUGHTY HERO

GENERAL ALLENBY’S TRIBUTE TO YOUNG SOLDIER.

Honours have come quickly upon Captain Edwin H. Deas, of the Scottish Horse, the youngest son of Mr James Deas, tailor, Commercial Street, Dundee, who resides at Seaview Barnhill, Broughty Ferry.  For brilliant work with the forces in Palestine he, within the period of five weeks, was mentioned in despatches, promoted to Captain, and decorated with the Military Cross.  He received the Military Cross for gallantry at Ammam.

“This officer,” it was stated in the Order bestowing the distinction upon him, “showed the greatest gallantry and coolness.  On three occasions he led his company forward with utmost dash and disregard of danger.  After the officer commanding the firing line had been wounded, he took command of the firing line, and organised the defence against the Turkish counter-attack with great ability.  It was greatly owing to his initiative that the battalion was able to maintain its advanced position.”  The decoration was pinned on the Captain’s breast by General Chater, and General Allenby paid him a high tribute.

Capt. Deas rose from the ranks, having joined the army as a private in September 1914.  Previous to enlisting he was an assistant in the City Engineer’s office, Dundee.

Dundee Peoples Journal 1st June 1918