5 Generals Part 3 - Buller part 3 - final

Further promotions and service in Egypt, Sudan and Ireland followed, before eventually becoming a general in 1896 and being appointed head of troops stationed at Aldershot in 1898.
At this stage it looked as if Buller's successful military career was winding down, so it came as something of a surprise when he was appointed head of the army being sent by Britain to what is now South Africa at the outbreak of the Second Boer War in 1899.
Not only was he 60 years of age, but many - potentially even Buller himself - thought his 10 years spent behind a desk had blunted his fighting instincts.
Nevertheless, he was soon steaming for South Africa ahead of a force which would soon number well over 50,000 men - the largest Britain had ever sent abroad at that stage.
Things didn't all go according to plan.
He eventually died from cancer in 1908 at Downes, while he was buried in the churchyard of the Holy Cross Church in Crediton.
Thousands turned out for his funeral.
The entire western side of the chancel arch inside the church forms an elaborate monument to him.