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Draft:Peter Kemmis Betty

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Peter Kemmis Betty
Nickname(s)"Bill"
Born(1898-11-10)10 November 1898
Llanelli, Carmarthenshire
Died14 January 1961(1961-01-14) (aged 62)
Allegiance United Kingdom
Service / branchBritish Raj British Indian Army (1917–1928)
British Army (1928–1954)
Years of service1917–1954
RankLt Col
Battles / warsSecond World War,
*Battle of Kampar
AwardsCompanion of the Order of the Bath
Commander of the Order of the British Empire
Mentioned in Dispatches (2)

Lt Col Peter Kemmis Betty MBE MC(May 1916 - 25th August 2016) was a British Army officer who served in world war 2.[1][2][3][4][5]

Military career

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World War II: Malayan Campaign

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Lt Col Betty served with the 28th Indian Infantry Brigade, part of the 11th Indian Division, during the Japanese invasion of Malaya in 1941. During this critical defensive action, Betty commanded a Gurkha rifle company tasked with holding a strategically vital bridge over the Sungai Dipang River.[4]

Betty's most notable contribution came during the Battle of Kampar, fought between December 30, 1941, and January 2, 1942. This defensive action was one of the few successful engagements for Allied forces in the Malayan Campaign.

Despite heavy Japanese artillery and mortar fire, he successfully delayed the advancing enemy, enabling an orderly Allied withdrawal.[3] On three separate occasions, Betty personally led his men under fire to protect demolition teams attempting to destroy the bridge. On the third attempt, the bridge was successfully demolished, halting the Japanese advance.

For his "judgment, calm orders, and cheerful bearing," Betty was awarded the Military Cross, for recognizing his gallantry and leadership under fire. His company, despite suffering heavy casualties, remained an organized and disciplined fighting force.

Post-War Service

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Following the war, Lt Col Betty continued his career with the Gurkha Rifles, ultimately commanding the 2nd Battalion, 2nd King Edward VII’s Own Gurkha Rifles (1958–1960). His service earned him widespread respect among his peers and subordinates. He was later appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his contributions to the British Army.

Personal Life

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Peter was married to Gemma, with whom he had three sons: Richard, Charlie, and David.[2]

References

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  1. ^ "Lieutenant-Colonel Peter Kemmis Betty, inspired his men in Malaya – obituary". The Telegraph. 12 September 2016. ISSN 0307-1235. Retrieved 27 November 2024.
  2. ^ a b "Peter Kemmis Betty Obituary (2016) - Legacy Remembers". Legacy.com. Retrieved 27 November 2024.
  3. ^ a b Syamil (1 June 2018). "The Battle of Kampar". Ipoh Echo. Retrieved 27 November 2024.
  4. ^ a b "Lt-Col Peter Kemmis Betty". www.thetimes.com. 4 October 2016. Retrieved 27 November 2024.
  5. ^ "Lieut-Col. Peter Kemmis-Betty MC". WWII Forums. Retrieved 27 November 2024.