Lot Essay
Lieutenant-Colonel Hartas Foxton, [M.C.], the son of Sir John and Lady Foxton of Skirlaugh, Yorkshire, first entered the French Theatre of War in April 1915 and remained on active service until the end of the War, on one occasion being wounded. In addition to being Mentioned in Despatches (London Gazette 29.5.1917 refers), he was also awarded the M.C.:
'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty when in charge of the collection of wounded. He personally directed and visited all the Regimental Posts many times a day, often under heavy fire. By his energy he kept the Bearers working, though exhausted, until completion of the evacuation' (London Gazette 23.4.1918 refers).
Foxton was recalled to the Colours in the Second World War, attained the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel, R.A.M.C. and was lost aboard the Hospital Ship Newfoundland off Salerno on 13.9.1943:
'The Steamship Newfoundland, in service as a Hospital Ship, was bombed and set on fire by German aircraft on 13 September 1943, off the Salerno beaches during the Allied landings in Italy. After burning for two days she was sunk by gunfire. Four of her crew, five Doctors, six Nurses and six Army Medical Staff were killed. Fortunately only two patients were on board at the time'.
Commemorated on the Brockwood Memorial, Surrey, Foxton was entitled to the 1939-45 Star, Atlantic Star, Italy Star and War Medal (Accompanying condolence slip refers).
'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty when in charge of the collection of wounded. He personally directed and visited all the Regimental Posts many times a day, often under heavy fire. By his energy he kept the Bearers working, though exhausted, until completion of the evacuation' (London Gazette 23.4.1918 refers).
Foxton was recalled to the Colours in the Second World War, attained the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel, R.A.M.C. and was lost aboard the Hospital Ship Newfoundland off Salerno on 13.9.1943:
'The Steamship Newfoundland, in service as a Hospital Ship, was bombed and set on fire by German aircraft on 13 September 1943, off the Salerno beaches during the Allied landings in Italy. After burning for two days she was sunk by gunfire. Four of her crew, five Doctors, six Nurses and six Army Medical Staff were killed. Fortunately only two patients were on board at the time'.
Commemorated on the Brockwood Memorial, Surrey, Foxton was entitled to the 1939-45 Star, Atlantic Star, Italy Star and War Medal (Accompanying condolence slip refers).