General Sir George Greaves GCB KCMG
1898-1920
Sir George received his first commission in November 1849 and became
Captain in October 1859. This distinguished officer served in the
Indian Mutiny, 1857-58, and performed the duties of Deputy Assistant
Adjutant-General in the Eusufzye Expedition, under Sir Sydney Cotton,
during the latter year. He distinguished himself on both occasions,
and was Mentioned in Despatches.
In New Zealand, as Deputy Assistant Quartermaster-General, 1862-66, he was conspicuous on account of his energy and personal courage. He reconnoitered the Waiko River, during which he was exposed to great peril, and was the means of effecting the passage of the gun boats “Avon” and “Pioneer”. It was an exploit which called forth the admiration of all those engaged within the area of operations as well as of those who, though at home in England, anxiously awaited the outcome of events. He was four times Mentioned in Despatches, and received the brevets of major and lieutenant-colonel.
As Chief of Staff in the Ashanti Expedition, 1873-74, he was present at Amoaful, Ordahsu, Coomassie, and all the principal engagements. He was twice favourably Mentioned in Despatches. Sir Garnet Wolseley, in reporting on his soldierly qualities, said: “Colonel Greaves assumed the duties of chief of staff on the 19th December. His great knowledge of the Army, his experience as a staff officer, the zeal and ability he brings to bear upon his work, mark him out as eminently qualified for the post he occupied. He has rendered the most valuable assistance.” At the close of the expedition he was made a CB, by no means too high a reward for the services rendered by him to a grateful country.
Sir George again filled the position of Chief-of-Staff to Sir Gerald Graham in the Sudan Campaign of 1885. Here he was again Mentioned in Despatches, and appointed KCB. He became Lieutenant General in 1890, and General in 1896. In 1891 he had been appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Bombay Army in succession to the Duke of Connaught.
He died in office at the age of ninety-one in 1920.
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