Other Information:Owen was educated at the Skinners’ School, Tunbridge Well, and qualified M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P. at the Middlesex Hospital in 1914. He trained as a cadet Staff-Serjeant at the University of London Contingent, Officers training Corps and was gazetted as Lieutenant in the Special Reserve on 29th November 1913, later gaining the rank of temporary Captain. He entered the war in France on 23rd August 1914, and was awarded the Military Cross for “Distinguished Service in the Field” (Lancet 22/1/1916). Owen was killed during the Battle of Messines whilst bringing in wounded to an advanced regimental aid post. His Commanding Officer wrote to his family: “He was the best officer I have had in the ambulance.... It may be some consolation to you to know that he died instantaneously, and that he was performing a gallant act when he was struck down.” The Divisional Officer Commanding wrote: “He was one of the best officers I have been privileged to command during my long service at home and abroad: beloved in the field ambulance, he won the esteem of all ranks.” Owen was the youngest son of Herbert Seaton Hairsine of 39 Buckingham Mansions, West Hampstead, N.W. and Harriet Ann - daughter of William Tapsell Baker of Brighton; and the husband of Sylvia Anita - married on 1st July 1916.
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