William Holmes (British Army officer)

William Holmes (1862 – July 1, 1917) was a British Army officer and politician. He served with distinction during the First World War, ultimately rising to the rank of Brigadier-General.

Holmes was born in County Tyrone, Ireland. He was commissioned into the Royal Irish Fusiliers in 1883. Before the First World War, he served in various regimental appointments and saw active service in South Africa during the Second Boer War.

At the outbreak of the First World War, Holmes was a Lieutenant-Colonel. He initially commanded the 2nd Battalion, Royal Irish Rifles. He quickly gained a reputation as a capable and courageous officer. He was promoted to Brigadier-General in 1915, commanding the 6th Brigade, 2nd Division.

Holmes led his brigade through several major battles on the Western Front, including the Battle of Loos and the Battle of the Somme. He was known for his concern for the welfare of his men.

Brigadier-General Holmes was killed in action on July 1, 1917, the first day of the Third Battle of Ypres (Passchendaele). He was hit by a shell while visiting the front lines. He is buried in the Ypres Reservoir Cemetery.

He was mentioned in despatches several times and awarded the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) and the Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG) for his service during the war.

Beyond his military career, Holmes also held a seat in the British Parliament as the Unionist Member of Parliament for East Tyrone from 1916 until his death in 1917. His death necessitated a by-election which was won by the Irish Parliamentary Party candidate, Thomas Harbison.