Lieutenant-Colonel Jack Gannon, 12th Sam Browne's Cavalry, 1930 (c)

Oil on canvas by Squadron Leader Bertram Bevan-Petman, 1930 (c).

Gannon was commissioned second lieutenant in the South Staffordshire Regiment in 1902, and saw service in World War One (1914-1918), the 3rd Afghan War (1919) and on the North West Frontier of India (1919-1920). From 1920 to 1925 he was Personal Military Secretary to General Lord Rawlinson, Commander-in-Chief India.

From 1927 until 1932 Gannon commanded Sam Browne's Cavalry, during which time this portrait was painted. During World War Two (1939-1945) he was Military Secretary GHQ Home Forces and then served as Deputy Military Secretary 21st Army Group. Gannon retired a brigadier in 1946.

Gannon was skilled at pig-sticking, shooting and polo and he played first class cricket for the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) and Ireland, and was involved in the management of the Hurlingham Club after his retirement from the Army.