The Scottish War Graves Project

spoons

I have just posted the grave of a brigadier who died in 1945 http://scottishwargraves.phpbbweb.com/viewtopic.php?p=16225#16225

Although he was past retiring age, my understanding is that all Generals (which include Brigadiers) never retire (they just go onto half pay) and so, as a serving officer who died during the relevant period, he should have been granted status of a war grave but was not.

Any thoughts?

\Paul

David McNay · Posted: Wed Jul 08, 2009 1:20 pm Post subject:

Brigadier ranks below a general doesn't it?

spoons · Posted: Wed Jul 08, 2009 3:18 pm Post subject:

No, brigadier is a general rank, there are 4 ranks of general

brigadier-general (one star in US terms)
major-general (2 stars)
lieutenant-general (3 stars)
general (4 stars)

then above that their is field-marshall of course (5 stars)

\Paul

kinnethmont · Joined: 25 Mar 2008 Posts: 121 Location: aberdeenshire

It is only Admirals of the Fleet, Field Marshals and Marshals of the Royal Air Force - the highest rank in each service who continue for life.
Prior to 1940 each of these highest ranks retired just as any other officer, as in the case of FM Haig.

In 1940 the rule was changed and these highest ranks gained 'in active service for life' status.
_________________
Jim

If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.