William Robert Aufrère Dawson: The Gallant Commander of the 6th Battalion
In the annals of the First World War, few officers embodied the spirit of leading from the front as profoundly as William Robert Aufrère "Bob" Dawson. A man of exceptional courage and loyalty, Dawson rose rapidly through the ranks of the British Army, becoming a legendary figure to the men he commanded. His devotion to his troops was so absolute that his unit became affectionately known as "Dawson's battalion."
Born on June 23, 1891, in Cold Ash, England, Dawson was the son of William and Ethel Dawson. Coming from a legal background—his father was a lawyer and his mother a solicitor—Dawson pursued an academic path at Bradfield College and later at Oriel College, Oxford, where he studied law.
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Key Facts
- Full Name: William Robert Aufrère Dawson
- Rank: Lieutenant Colonel
- Command: 6th Battalion, Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regiment
- Major Awards: Companion of the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) with three bars
- Combat Record: Wounded in action at least seven times
- Service Period: 1912–1918
Military Career and Rise to Command
Dawson's military journey began in 1912 when he joined the Royal Field Artillery as a Cadet in the Officers' Training Corps at Oxford University. By June 1914, he transferred to the Queen's Own (Royal West Kent) Regiment. While much of the 1st Battalion deployed to France at the outbreak of the First World War in August 1914, Dawson remained in England to assist in the formation of the 6th (Service) Battalion.
His ascent through the officer ranks was swift. Promoted to lieutenant in September 1914 and temporary captain in March 1915, he arrived on the Western Front in June 1915 as part of the 12th Division. By November 1916, at the age of only 25, Dawson took formal command of the 6th Battalion as an acting lieutenant colonel.
A Leader's Devotion
Dawson was defined by his refusal to leave his men. Despite being offered staff appointments and the opportunity to command a brigade—which would have moved him away from the immediate dangers of the front line—he chose to remain with his battalion. This loyalty forged a deep bond between the commander and his soldiers.
Combat History and Valor
Throughout the war, Dawson participated in some of the most brutal engagements of the Western Front. His leadership was characterized by a willingness to lead charges personally, a trait that resulted in him being wounded at least seven times.
His operational history includes significant actions at:
- The Second Battle of Ypres and the craters near Vermelles.
- The Battle of Loos, specifically at Hulluch.
- The Battle of the Somme, where he joined the offensive on Ovillers and later Gueudecourt in 1916.
- The Battle of Arras, where he was wounded at Monchy in May 1917.
- The Battle of Cambrai in November 1917.
- The German Spring Offensive of 1918.
- The Hundred Days Offensive, the final allied push of the war.
For his extraordinary bravery, Dawson was appointed a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) and received three subsequent bars—a rare feat indicating repeated acts of extreme gallantry. He was also Mentioned in Despatches (official reports highlighting gallant or meritorious action) at least five times.
Final Days and Legacy
The cost of Dawson's bravery came on October 23, 1918, when he was severely wounded by an artillery shell near Nivelle. He was transported to the 20th General Hospital in Camiers, where he spent his final weeks. Despite visits from his parents, he succumbed to his wounds on December 3, 1918, at the age of 27.
Although he had expressed a wish to be returned to England, he was buried at the Étaples Military Cemetery in France. He is further commemorated at St Margaret's at Cliffe.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | Bradfield College; Oriel College, Oxford |
| Primary Unit | 6th Battalion, Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regiment |
| Highest Rank | Lieutenant Colonel |
| Key Decorations | DSO and 3 Bars; 5 Mentions in Despatches |
| Final Resting Place | Étaples Military Cemetery, France |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was "Dawson's battalion"?
It was the 6th (Service) Battalion of the Queen's Own (Royal West Kent) Regiment, which became known by this name due to the deep loyalty and leadership of William Robert Aufrère Dawson.
How many times was Lieutenant Colonel Dawson wounded?
Records indicate that he was wounded in action at least seven times throughout his service on the Western Front.
What are the "bars" associated with his Distinguished Service Order?
A "bar" is an additional award of the same medal. Having a DSO with three bars means Dawson was awarded the Distinguished Service Order four times in total for his bravery.
Why did Dawson refuse promotions to higher command?
He refused staff appointments and the chance to command a brigade because he preferred to remain in the field with the men of his battalion.
Where is William Robert Aufrère Dawson buried?
He is buried at the Étaples Military Cemetery in France, though he is also commemorated at St Margaret's at Cliffe.