A M Mills served in the 18th Lancers from 1902 until amalgamation in 1921 when he had the rank of brevet lieutenant-colonel. Captain Mills fought in the First World War from 13 Nov 1914 to 6 June 1915 and from 6 July 1917 to 20 Dec 1917. He was Staff Captain of the Amballa Cavalry Brigade but relinquished this appointment to be posted to the 35th (Bantam) Division. On 13 Sep 1918 Major Mills was gazetted for the DSO; ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty when in command of his squadron in an attack. Though, owing to heavy casualties, they were at first forced to withdraw a short distance, he reorganised, led them forward with great skill and determination, and captured his objective.’ He earned two more bars to his DSO and was Mentioned in Despatches four times.
The photo shows him as a member of the regimental polo team in 1913 after winning the cup at the Indian Cavalry Polo Tournament. Other members of the team were F A Maxwell VC, F Gwatkin and S J W Railston.
