Any history of the "Seventeenth" would be incomplete without a passing
reference to James Kelly.
Chosen at the inception of the Battalion out of a large number of
applicants, and appointed Regimental Sergeant Major, his selection was
amply justified by results. He had seen much service in The Royal
Scots, and active service in South Africa, where he was
Colour-Sergeant of his Company and where he gained the D.C.M.
A man of commanding appearance, always very smartly turned out, he set
a fine example to all ranks and speedily infused the real military
spirit into the rank and file. During training at home and on service
in France he did splendid work, and to him is due in no small measure
the high standard of efficiency and discipline maintained in the
Battalion. In manner somewhat brusque, but of a tender heart withal,
he was the friend and confidant of nearly all the Officers, N.C.O.s
and men, and when off parade the best of good fellows.
DAVID S. MORTON,
_Lieut.-Colonel._