During the action around Sterkwater, on the 27th of July 1900, the Boers had retired in front of us towards the railway. We met with but little opposition until close to Pan Station. From the far side of the ridge of a large “pan” we could see the enemy retiring on the line and firing the gun gun to prevent our advance assisted by a skirmishing line.

‘C’ Squadron then advanced at a trot, and caused their hasty departure by rail.

Lieutenant Lambert, along with Sergeant Joice, left the safety of the camp at night to destroy a portion of the railway east of Pan Station to prevent the return of the enemy by rail. They were successful, and returned to camp the next morning.

JW Morton, 8th Hussars, Diary of The South African War 1900-1902

Related topics

  1. A short history of The 8th Hussars
  2. Timeline: South Africa 1900-02
  3. Object: Distinguished Service Order – Lt R Lambert DSO