Thomas Cubitt (British Army officer)

Thomas Cubitt (1871-1939) was a British Army officer who served with distinction in both the Second Boer War and the First World War. He is perhaps best known for his command of the 4th Guards Brigade during the early years of the First World War, and later for his roles in higher command positions.

Cubitt entered the army in 1891 as a second lieutenant in the Coldstream Guards. He saw active service in the Second Boer War (1899-1902), where he was Mentioned in Despatches.

By the outbreak of the First World War in 1914, Cubitt was a lieutenant colonel. He was given command of the 4th Guards Brigade, part of the 2nd Division of the British Expeditionary Force (BEF). He led the brigade through the early battles of the war, including Mons and the First Battle of Ypres, earning a reputation for courage and tactical competence.

In 1915, Cubitt was promoted to major general and given command of the 25th Division. He subsequently commanded the 56th (1/1st London) Division from 1916 until 1919, leading it through significant engagements including the Battle of the Somme and the Battle of Arras. He was praised for his leadership during these battles.

After the war, Cubitt remained in the army, holding various command positions until his retirement. He was awarded several honors for his service, including the Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB) and the Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG). He died in 1939.