Major-General F.D.V. Wing, C.B., being very anxious about the gun positions, was on his way to inspect them on the afternoon of the 2nd October, when a German shell, falling just in front of him, he and his A.D., Lieutenant C.C. Tower, D.S.O., were killed. General Wing joined the Royal Artillery in 1880, and, serving with distinction throughout the South African campaign of 1899-1902, was promoted Brevet Lieut.‑Colonel and awarded the C.B. On the outbreak of the war he was commanding the artillery of the 3rd Division on Salisbury Plain, and accompanying that Division to France, was present throughout the retreat from Mons. Greatly distinguishing himself again, he was promoted Major-General, and eventually appointed to command the 12th (Eastern) Division. His daily round invariably included a visit to the front line trenches, where he had shown such personal interest in the welfare of the men, that he became one of the most familiar, most respected, and best beloved figures in the Division. All ranks mourned the loss of this distinguished officer at such an early stage of the campaign. The Commander-in-Chief, in his despatch of the 1st November, 1915, said, "I have to deplore the loss of a third most valuable and distinguished General of Division during these operations. On the afternoon of the 2nd October Major-General F.D.V. Wing, C.B., commanding the 12th Division, was killed." [Major-General Wing and Lieutenant Tower were buried in the cemetery at Noeux les Mines on 4th October, 19I5].

There is [or at least was in the 1990s] a barracks named after him in Bulford Garrison on Salisbury plain.

Regards

Ali

For a photo of him - see General Officers in combat under Soldiers which commenced on the 2nd October 2009.

Philip

Major General Frederick Wing is listed on the Amesbury War Memorial. He was the first General Officer I ever saw named on any such memorial (I was 15 or 16 years old & visiting my Aunt & Uncle who lived in the town) & for me he was the reason I first questioned the then popular viewpoint that Great War Generals were distant & remote (both in location & in understanding) to the soldiers under their command.

Remembering.

Thank you for the freedom that I enjoy.

RIP

Scottie.