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William Maynard GommBritish military and statesman. After taking part in the Anglo-Russian invasion of Holland, he fought in most of the battles of the Napoleonic Wars. During the Hundred Days, he took part in the Battle of Quatre Bras and Waterloo. Commander of the troops at
Date of Birth: 10.11.1784
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Content:
- William Maynard Gomm
- Peninsular Wars and Waterloo
- Jamaica and Governor of Mauritius
- "Father" of the Mauritius Post Stamps
- India and Later Years
- Personal Life and Legacy
William Maynard Gomm
Early Life and Military CareerWilliam Maynard Gomm was born into a military family and entered the army at a young age. After participating in the Anglo-Russian invasion of Holland, he fought under the Duke of York and Albany in several battles, including Bergen and Alkmaar. During the Peninsular Wars, Gomm served as assistant quartermaster-general to Arthur Wellesley, later the Duke of Wellington.
Peninsular Wars and Waterloo
Gomm distinguished himself during the Peninsular Wars, playing a crucial role in the Battle of Salamanca and the Siege of Ciudad Rodrigo. He was wounded multiple times and promoted to the rank of lieutenant-colonel. After returning to England, he became a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath in 1815. During the Hundred Days, he participated in the Battle of Quatre Bras and the Battle of Waterloo, where he was again wounded.
Jamaica and Governor of Mauritius
In 1839, Gomm was appointed commander of the troops in Jamaica. While serving there, he introduced measures to improve the health of British soldiers by moving barracks to mountainous areas where yellow fever was less prevalent. In 1842, he was appointed Governor of Mauritius.
"Father" of the Mauritius Post Stamps
As Governor of Mauritius, Gomm oversaw the creation of the island's first postage stamps in 1847. These stamps, known as the "Mauritius Post Office" stamps, are among the most famous and valuable stamps in the world. Gomm's efforts to improve the postal service also included the establishment of a uniform postage rate and the prohibition of the use of French in legal proceedings.
India and Later Years
In 1849, Gomm was sent to India to take over as Commander-in-Chief, but his appointment was later revoked. He subsequently became Commander-in-Chief of the Bombay Army. After several prestigious appointments, including Field Marshal of the British Army in 1868, Gomm retired from active service in 1856.
Personal Life and Legacy
William Maynard Gomm married twice but had no children. He died in 1875 and was buried in Christ Church, Rotherhithe. His widow established a scholarship fund in his name at Keble College, Oxford University. Gomm's contributions to the British Army and to the philatelic world are remembered to this day.