14 Facts About Arthur Martin-Leake

Arthur, the fifth son of Stephen Martin-Leake of Thorpe Hall, Essex, was born at Standon, near Ware, Hertfordshire, and was educated at Westminster School before studying medicine at University College Hospital, qualifying in 1893.

Arthur Martin-Leake was employed at Hemel Hempstead District Hospital before enlisting in the 42nd Company, Imperial Yeomanry in 1899 to serve in the Boer War.

Arthur Martin-Leake then joined the South African Constabulary until he was forced to return home due to his wounds.

Arthur Martin-Leake was 27 years old and a surgeon captain in the South African Constabulary attached to the 5th Field Ambulance during the Second Boer War on 8 February 1902, at Vlakfontein, when he was awarded his first VC.

Arthur Martin-Leake then went to the assistance of a wounded Officer, and, whilst trying to place him in a comfortable position, was shot three times, but would not give in till he rolled over thoroughly exhausted.

All the eight men at this point were wounded, and while they were lying on the Veldt, Surgeon-Captain Arthur Martin-Leake refused water till every one else had been served.

Arthur Martin-Leake received the decoration from King Edward VII at St James's Palace on 2 June 1902.

Arthur Martin-Leake then took up an appointment in India as Chief Medical Officer with the Bengal-Nagpur Railway.

Arthur Martin-Leake was awarded the Order of the Montenegran Red Cross.

Arthur Martin-Leake was awarded his second VC, aged 40, during the period 29 October to 8 November 1914 near Zonnebeke, Belgium, whilst serving with the Royal Army Medical Corps, British Army.

Arthur Martin-Leake was promoted captain in March 1915, major in November the same year, and in April 1917 took command of 46th Field Ambulance at the rank of lieutenant colonel.

Arthur Martin-Leake retired from the army after the war and resumed his company employment in India until he retired to England in 1937.

Arthur Martin-Leake died on 22 June 1953, aged 79, at High Cross, Hertfordshire.

Arthur Martin-Leake is commemorated with a plaque and a tree at the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas, Staffordshire.