Son of John and Annie Russell MacKenzie, of Green Point, Cape Town. Served in the South African War with Natal Carbineers and with Scottish Horse (as Capt.) received the King's Medal with two clasps (twice Mentioned in Despatches). He also served in Northern Nigeria in 1906. Born at Aberdeen, Scotland. On Maritzburg College cenotaph.
DSO LG 26 June 1902 - "Ian Russell Mackenzie, Captain, Scottish Horse. In recognition of services during the operations in South Africa"