C A C King

Lieutenant-Colonel Charles A C King commanded the 2nd Battalion Green Howards in the BEF at the First Battle of Ypres. His leadership ensured the valuable contribution made by the battalion against the formidable German attacks. They fought at Gheluvelt from 16 Oct 1914, and for three days were under intense pressure. They were relieved on 26 Oct and although Colonel King was unwell he insisted on leading his men when they were ordered to fight again at Sanctuary Wood. They were pushed back half a mile but King led a counter-attack on 29 Oct that regained the lost ground and went a further 200 yards beyond. The heavy bombardment the next day cost the battalion many lives including Lieutenant-Colonel King. He features prominently in the painting of the Green Howards in Gheluvelt at the crossroads; the officer on the left of the picture holding the map.
The Army list has him as Captain and Adjutant of the 3rd Battalion on 20 Nov 1896. The London Gazette announced his promotion to captain on 15 Feb 1893 and his promotion to lieutenant-colonel on 29 Sep 1910. The date of his death was 30 Oct 1914.

Regimental Details | Commanding Officers