W Kennedy served with the 45th Regiment of Foot. He had regimental number 1332. Unfortunately, very little is known about his service other than that he served in the Abyssinia Campaign (1867-8). 

The Abyssinia campaign was a rescue mission to free European hostages held by Theodore, the ruler of the country. There had been an outcry in the British press after one of the hostages, Captain Cameron who had previously served with the regiment, had sent letters describing the situation. There were numerous logistical challenges to overcome in the campaign, to reach the gates of Theodore’s fortress at Magdala. Most of the hostages would be freed (some were killed) and Theodore committed suicide.