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The London Gazette 21971. [29 May 1855]. John Roberts, Gunner. This Warrant Officer landed with Lieutenants Buckley and Burgoyne at Genitchi, in presence of a superior force, and set fire to the Stores, a service of imminent risk. (Despatch from Admiral Lord Lyons, 2nd June, 1855, No. 419.)
The London Gazette 21971. [29 May 1855]. Henry Cooper, Boatswain. Performed the desperate service of landing at Taganrog in pressnce of a large force, to set fire to the Government Stores. See preceding Memoir of Commander Buckley. (Admiral Lord Lyons' Despatch, 6th June, 1855, No. 429.)
The London Gazette 21971. [29 May 1855]. John Talbot Burgoyne, Commander. Lord Lyons writes:—"As Senior Lieutenant of the 'Swallow,' this Officer landed with Lieutenant Buckley, and Mr. J. Roberts, Gunner, in presence of a superior force, and set fire to the stores at Genitchi, a service of imminent risk." (Despatch from Admiral Lord Lyons, 2nd June, 1855, No. 419.) N.B.—This service has been previously described in the preceding notice of Lieutenant Buckley's services.
The London Gazette 21971. [29 May 1855]. Joseph Trewavas, Seaman. Particularly mentioned as having cut the hawsers of the floating bridge in the Straits of Genitchi, under a heavy fire of musketry, on which occasion he was wounded." This service was performed by the crews of the Captain's gig, and of one of the paddle-box boats of the "Beagle," under a heavy fire of musketry at about a distance of eighty yards; the beach being completely lined .with troops, and the adjacent houses filled with Riflemen. Joseph Trewavas is especially men tioned in the despatches as having been the person who cut the hawser. (Despatch from Admiral Lord Lyons of 10th July, 1855, No. 546.)
The London Gazette 21997. 7th Regiment. Lieutenant William Hope. Date of Act of Bravery, 18th June, 1855.
After the troops had retreated on the morning of the 18th June, 1855, Lieutenant W. Hope being informed by the late Serjeant-Major William Bacon, who was himself wounded, that Lieutenant and Adjutant Hobson was lying outside the trenches badly wounded, went out to look for him, and found him lying in the old agricultural ditch running towards the left flank of the Redan. He then returned, and got four men to bring him in. Finding, however, that Lieutenant Hobson could not be removed without a stretcher, he then ran back across the open to Egerton's Pit, where he procured one, and carried it to where Lieutenant Hobson was lying.
All this was done under a very heavy fire from the Russian batteries.
7th Regiment. Assistant-Surgeon Thomas Egerton Hale, M.D. Date of Act of Bravery, 8th September, 1855
First. For remaining with an officer who was dangerously wounded, (Captain H. M. Jones, 7th Regiment), in the fifth parallel, on 8th September, 1855, when all the men in the immediate neighbourhood retreated, excepting Lieutenant W. Hope and Dr. Hale; and for endeavouring to rally the men, in conjunction with Lieutenant W. Hope, 7th Royal Fusiliers.
Secondly. For having, on 8th September, 1855, after the regiments had retired into the trenches, cleared the most advanced sap of the wounded, and carried, into the sap, under a heavy fire, several wounded men from the open ground, being assisted by Serjeant Charles Fisher, 7th Royal Fusiliers, Coldstream Guards (late of the 49th Regiment). Brevet-Major John Augustus Conolly Date of Act of Bravery, 26th October, 1854.
In the attack by the Russians against the position held by the Second Division, 26th October, 1854, Major Conolly, then a Lieutenant in the 49th Regiment, while in command of a company of that regiment, on outlying picket, made himself most conspicuous by the gallantry of his behaviour. He came particularly under the observation of the late Field-Marshal Lord Raglan (age 66), while in personal encounter with several Russians, in defence of his post. He ultimately fell, dangerously wounded. Lieutenant Conolly was highly praised in General Orders, and promoted into the Coldstream Guards, as a reward for his exemplary behaviour on this occasion.
The London Gazette 21997. 7th Regiment.Assistant-Surgeon Thomas Egerton Hale, M.D. Date of Act of Bravery, 8th September, 1855
First. For remaining with an officer who was dangerously wounded, (Captain H. M. Jones, 7th Regiment), in the fifth parallel, on 8th September, 1855, when all the men in the im mediate neighbourhood retreated, excepting Lieutenant W. Hope and Dr. Hale; and for endeavouring.to rally the men, in conjunction with Lieutenant W. Hope, 7th Royal Fusi liers.
Secondly. For having, on 8th September, 1855, after the regiments had retired into the trenches, cleared the most advanced sap of the wounded, and carried, into the sap, under a heavy fire, several wounded men from the open ground, being assisted by Serjeant Charles Fisher, 7th Royal Fusiliers
The London Gazette 21971. [08 Sep 1855]. Joseph Kellaway, Boatswain. "Whilst Boatswain of the 'Wrangler,' in the Sea of Azoff, was taken prisoner after a stout resistance, whilst endeavouring to rescue Mr. Odevaine, Mate."
This gallant service was performed on shore near Marionpol. A detachment, consisting of Mr. Odevaine, Mate; Mr. Kellaway, Boatswain; and three Seamen, had been dispatched from the "Wrangler" to endeavour to burn some boats, fishing stations, and hay-stacks, on the opposite side of a small lake. They had nearly reached the spot, when they were fired upon by a party of fifty Russian soldiers, who suddenly rushed from their ambush, and endeavoured to cut off their retreat. One man fell into the enemy's hands, but Mr. Kellaway, and the two other seamen, had contrived to make good their escape, when Mr. Odevaine accidentally fell. Kellaway, apparently imagining him to be wounded, without a moment's hesitation returned to his rescue, risKing his own life to succour his Commanding Officer.
Unfortunately, while lifting up Mr. Odevaine, they were surrounded by the enemy, and, notwithstanding a gallant but hopeless resistance by Mr. Kellaway, they were both made prisoners. Commander Burgoyne, who has furnished these particulars, observes, "I was myself an observer of the zeal, gallantry, and self-devotion that characterized Mr. Kellaway's conduct." (Despatches from Admiral Lord Lyons, of 8th September, 1855, No. 746; and of 22nd September, 1855, No. 796.)
The Victoria Cross was introduced on 29 Jan 1856 by Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom (age 36) to honour acts of valour during the Crimean War. It is the the highest and most prestigious decoration of the British decorations system. It is awarded for valour "in the presence of the enemy" to members of the British Armed Forces and may be awarded posthumously.
At investiture ceremonies the Victoria Cross is a awarded before all other others.
It is a tradition, unwritten, that recipients of the Victoria Cross, irrespective of rank, are saluted by all other ranks including officers.
The London Gazette 21971. [24 Feb 1857]. Scots Fusilier Guards. Brevet Major Robert James Lindsay (age 24). When the formation of the line of the Regiment was disordered at Alma, Captain Lindsay stood firm with the Colours, and by his example and energy, greatly tended to restore order. At Inkerman, at a most trying moment, he, with a few men, charged a party of Russians, driving them back, and running one through the body himself.
The London Gazette 21971. [24 Feb 1857]. Grenadier Guards. Brevet Major Sir Charles Russell (age 30); Bart. Offered to dislodge a party of Russians from the Sand-bag Battery, if any one would follow him; Serjeant Norman, Privates Anthony Palmer, and Bailey (who was killed) volunteered the first. The attack succeeded.
The London Gazette 21971. [24 Feb 1857]. Cecil William Buckley, Commander. Lord Lyons reports that—"Whilst serving as junior Lieutenant of the "Miranda," this Officer landed in presence of a superior force, and set fire to the Russian stores at Genitchi;" and "he also performed a similar desperate service at Taganrog." The first service referred to occurred after the shelling of the town of Genitchi, on the 29th May, 1855. After mentioning that the stores were in a very favourable position for supplying the Russian Army, and that, therefore, their destruction was of the utmost importance, Captain Lyons writes: "Lieutenant Cecil W. Buckley, Lieutenant Hugh T. Burgoyne, and Mr. John Roberts, gunner, volunteered to land alone, and fire the stores, which offer I accepted, knowing the imminent risk there would be in landing a party in presence of such a superior force, and out of gun-shot of the ships. This very dangerous service they most gallantly performed, narrowly escaping the Cossacks, who all but cut them off from their boat." (Despatch from Admiral Lord Lyons, 2nd June, 1855, No. 419.)
The second volunteer service was performed while the town of Taganrog was being bombarded by the boats of the Fleet, and is thus recorded by Captain Lyons:—"Lieutenant Cecil Buckley, in a four-oared gig, accompanied by Mr. Henry Cooper, Boatswain, and manned by volunteers, repeatedly landed and fired the different stores and Government buildings. This dangerous, not to say desperate service (carried out in a town containing upwards of 3,000 troops, constantly endeavouring to prevent it, and only checked by the fire of the boats' guns), was most effectually performed." (Despatch from Admiral Lord Lyons, 6th June, 1855, No, 429.)
The London Gazette 21997. War-Office, May 5, 1857.
The Queen (age 37) has been graciously pleased to signify Her intention to confer the Decoration of the Victoria Cross on the undermentioned Officers of Her Majesty's Army, who have been recommended to Her Majesty for that Decoration,—in accordance with the rules laid down in Her Majesty's Warrant of the 29th of January, 1856,—on account of acts of bravery performed by them before the Enemy during the late War, as recorded against their several names; viz.
Grenadier Guards. Colonel Hon. Henry Hugh Manvers Percy (age 37). Date of Act of Bravery, 5th November, 1854 [ at the Battle of Inkerman]
At a moment when the Guards were at some distance from the Sand Bag Battery, at the Battle of Inkerman, Colonel Percy charged singly into the battery, followed immediately by the Guards; the embrasures of the battery, as also the parapet, were held by the Russians, who kept up a most severe fire of musketry.
At the Battle of Inkerman Colonel Percy, found himself with many men of various regiments, who had charged too far, nearly surrounded by the Russians, and without ammunition. Colonel Percy, by his knowledge of ground, though wounded, extricated these men, and, passing under a heavy fire from the Russians then in the Sand Bag Battery, brought them safe to where ammunition was to be obtained, thereby saving some fifty men, and enabling them to renew the combat. He received the approval of His Royal Highness the Duke of Cambridge, for this action, on the spot.—Colonel Percy was engaged with, and put hors de combat, a Russian soldier.
On 26 Jun 1857 the first sixty-two recipients of the Victoria Cross had the decoration pinned to their breasts by Queen Victoria (age 38) in Hyde Park [Map]. Henry Hugh Manvers Percy (age 39), who was the most senior office present to receive the Victoria Cross, commanded on the day.
On 16 Nov 1857 Captain Augustus Henry Archibald Anson VC (age 22) was awarded Victoria Cross ... For conspicuous bravery at Bolundshahur, on the 28th September, 1857. The 9th Light Dragoons had charged through the town, and were reforming in the Serai; the enemy attempted to close the entrance by drawing their carts across it, so as to shut in the cavalry and form a cover from which to fire upon them. Captain Anson, taking a lance, dashed out of the gateway, and knocked the drivers off their carts. Owing to a wound in his left hand, received at Delhi, he could not stop his horse, and rode into the middle of the enemy, who fired a volley at him, one ball passing through his coat. At Lucknow, at the assault of the Secundra Bagh, on 16th November, 1857, he entered with the storming party on the gates being burst open. He had his horse killed, and was himself slightly wounded. He has shown the greatest gallantry on every occasion, and has slain many enemies in fight.
On 11 Mar 1858 Henry Wilmot 5th Baronet (age 27) was awarded the Victoria Cross:
Rifle Brigade, 2nd Battalion. Captain (now Brevet-Major) Henry Wilmot
Date of Act of Bravery, 11th March, 1858
For conspicuous gallantry at Lucknow on the 11th March, 1858. Captain Wilmot's Company was engaged with a large body of the enemy, near the Iron Bridge. That officer found himself at the end of a street with only four of his men, opposed to a considerable body. One of the four was shot through both legs, and became utterly helpless: the two men lifted him up, and although Private Hawkes was severely wounded, he carried him for a considerable distance, exposed to the fire of the enemy, Captain Wilmot firing with the men's rifles, and covering the retreat of the party. Despatch of Brigadier-General Walpole, C.B., dated 20th of March, 1858.
The London Gazette 22538. 13 Aug 1861. War Office.
The Queen (age 41) has been graciously pleased to signify Her intention to confer the decoration of the Victoria Cross on the under-mentioned Officers and Soldiers, whose claims to the same have been submitted for Her Majesty's approval, on account of Acts of Bravery performed by them in China, on the occasion of the assault and capture of the North Taku Fort on the 21st of August, 1860, as recorded against their several names; viz.:
Table of Regiment, Rank and Name, Act of Bravery for which recommended.
67th Regiment (now of the 100th Regiment). Ensign (now Lieutenant) John Worthy Chaplin (age 21). For distinguished gallantry at the North Taku Fort. This Officer was carrying the Queen's Colour of the Regiment, and first planted the Colours on the breach made by the storming party, assisted |by Private Lane, of the 67th Regiment, and subsequently on the cavalier of the Fort, which he was the first to mount. In doing this, he was severely wounded.
India Cross, Edinburgh [Map]. Erected in 1862 by public subscription, it reads: "This sandstone cross commemorates the men of the 78th Highlanders who died during the Indian Rebellion or Mutiny of 1857-8". And under the heading "Heroes of Lucknow" continues: "Indian soldiers rose against British rule and besieged Lucknow in June 1867. In September soldiers of the 78th fought through rebel ranks to relieve the city. Eight members of the regiment were awarded the Victoria Cross.
The London Gazette 24790. [Victoria Cross, 06 Dec 1879]. Royal Engineers. Captain (now Major), Edward Pemberton Leach (age 32)
For having, in action with the Shinwarris near Maidanah, Afghanistan, on the 17th March, 1879, when covering the retirement of the Survey Escort who were carrying Lieutenant Barclay, 45th Sikhs, mortally wounded, behaved with the utmost gallantry in charging, with some men of the 45th. Sikhs, a very much larger number of the enemy.
In this encounter Captain Leach killed two or three of the enemy himself, and he received a severe wound from an Afghan knife in the left arm. Captain Leach's determination and gallantry in this affair, in attacking and driving back the enemy from the last position, saved the whole party from annihilation.
The London Gazette 24843. War Office, May 8, 1880. THE Queen has been graciously pleased to signify Her intention to confer the decoration of the Victoria Cross upon the undermentioned Officer, whose claim to the same has been submitted for Her Majesty's approval, for his gallant conduct at Konoma, on the Eastern Frontier of India, as recorded against his name; viz.:
Bengal Staff Corps. Captain Richard Kirby Ridgeway. For conspicuous gallantry throughout the attack on Konoma, on the 22nd November, 1879, more especially in the final assault, when, under a heavy fire from the enemy, he rushed up to a barricade and attempted to tear down the planKing surrounding it, to enable him to effect an entrance, in which act he received a very severe rifle shot wound in the left shoulder.
The London Gazette 26908. War Office, November 9, 1897
The Queen (age 78) has been graciously pleased to signify Her intention to confer the decoration of the Victoria Cross on the undermentioned Officers, whose claims have been submitted for Her Majesty's approval, for their conspicuous bravery during the operations on the North-West Frontier of India, as recorded against their names:-
Regiment. Name. Acts of Courage for which recommended.
Indian Staff Corps. Major and Brevet Lieutenant Colonel Robert Bellew Adams and 16th Lancers Lieutenant Alexander Edward, Viscount Fincastle (age 26).
During the fighting at Nawa Bali, in Upper Swat, on the 17th August, 1897, Lieutenant-Colonel R. B. Adams proceeded with Lieutenants H. L. S. MacLean and Viscount Fincastle, and five men of the Guides, under a very heavy and close fire, to the rescue of Lieutenant R. T. Greaves, Lancashire Fusiliers, who was lying disabled by a bullet wound and surrounded by the enemy's swordsmen. In bringing him under cover he (Lieutenant Greaves) was struck by a bullet and killed—Lieutenant MacLean was mortally wounded—whilst the horses of Lieutenant-Colonel Adams and Lieutenant Viscount Fincastle were shot, as well as two troop horses.
Indian Staff Corps. Lieutenant Edmond William Costello. On the night of the 26th July, 1897, at the Malakand, Lieutenant Costello went out from the hospital enclosure, and, with the assistance of two sepoys, brought in a wounded Lance-Halvidar who was lying 60 yards away in the open on the football ground. This ground was at the time overrun with swordsmen and swept by a heavy fire both from the enemy anj our own men who were holding the sapper lines.
Memorandum
Lieutenant Hector Lachlan Stewart Mac Lean, Indian Staff Corps, on account of his gallant conduct as recorded above, would have been recommended to Her Majesty for the Victoria Cross had he survived
The London Gazette 27208. The Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment). Captain Charles FitzClarence (age 34). On the 14th October, 1899, Captain FitzClarence went with his squadron of the Protectorate Regiment, consisting of only partially trained men, who had never been in action, to the assistance of an armoured train which had gone out from MafeKing. The enemy were in greatly superior numbers, and the squadron was for a time surrounded, and it looked as if nothing could save them from being shot down. Captain FitzClarence, however, by his personal coolness and courage inspired the greatest confidence in his men, and, by his bold and efficient handling of them, not only succeeded in relieving the armoured train, but inflicted a heavy defeat on the Boers, who lost 50 killed and a large number wounded, his own losses being 2 killed and 15 wounded. The moral effect of this blow had a very important bearing on subsequent encounters with the Boers.
On the 27th October, 1899, Captain FitzClarence led his squadron from MafeKing across the open, and made a night attack with the bayonet on one of the enemy's trenches. A hand-to-hand fight took place in the trench, while a heavy fire was concentrated on it from the rear. The enemy was driven out with heavy loss. Captain FitzClarence was the first man into the position and accounted-for four of the enemy with his sword. The British lost & killed and 9 wounded. Captain. FitzClarence was himself: slightly wounded. With reference to these two actions, Major General Baden-Powell states that had this Officer not shown an extraordinary spirit and fearlessness the attacks would have been failures, and we should have suffered heavy loss both in men and prestige.
On the 26th December, 1899, during the action at Game Tree, near MafeKing, Captain FitzClarence again distinguished himself by his coolness and courage, and was again wounded (severely through both legs).
The London Gazette 27208. 10th Hussars. Lieutenant (now Captain) Sir John Milbanke, Bart. (age 27). On the 5th January, 1900, during a reconnaissance near Colesberg, Sir John Milbanke, when retiring under fire with a small patrol of the 10th Hussars, notwithstanding the fact that he had just been severely wounded in the thigh, rode back to the assistance of one of the men whose pony was exhausted, and who was under fire from some Boers who had dismounted. Sir John Milbanke took the man up on his own horse under a most galling fire and brought him safely back to camp.
The London Gazette 27160. War Office, February 2, 1900. The Queen has been graciously pleased to signify Her intention to confer the decoration of the Victoria Cross on the undermentioned Officers and Non-Commissioned Officer, whose claims have been submitted for Her Majesty's approval, for their conspicuous bravery at the battle of Colenso, as stated against their names:—
The Rifle Brigade (The Prince Consort's Own). Captain W. Congreve. At Colenso on the 15th December, 1899, the detachments serving the guus of the 14th and 66th Batteries, Royal Field Artillery, had all been either killed, wounded, or driven from their guns by Infantry fire at close range, and the guns were deserted.
About 500 yards behind the guns was a donga in which some of the few horses and drivers left alive were sheltered. The intervening space was swept with shell and rifle fire.
Captain Congreve, Rifle Brigade, who was in the donga, assisted to hook a team into a limber, went out; and assisted to limber up a gun. Being wounded, he took shelter; but, seeing Lieutenant Roberts fall, badly wounded, he went out again and brought him in. Captain Congreve was shot tbrough the leg, through the toe of his boot, grazed on the elbow and the shoulder, and his horse shot in three places.
The King's Royal Rifle Corps. Lieutenant the Honourable F. H. S. Roberts (since deceased). Lieutenant Roberts assisted Captain Congreve. He was wounded in three places.
66th Royal Battery, Field Artillery. Corporal G. E. Nurse. Corporal Nurse also assisted.
7th Royal Battery, Artillery Field. Captain H. L. Reed. Captain Reed, who had heard of the difficulty, shortly afterwards brought down three teams from liis battery to see if he could be of any use. He was wounded, as were five of the thirteen men who rode with him, one was killed; and thirteen out of twenty-one horses were killed before he got half-way to the guns, and he was obliged to retire
The London Gazette 27208. War Office, July 6, 1900
The Queen (age 81) has been graciously pleased to signify Her intention to confer the decoration of the Victoria Cross on the undermentioned Officers, Non-Commissioned Officer, and Trooper whose claims have been submitted for Her Majesty's approval, for their conspicuous bravery in South Africa, as stated against their name:-
The Gordon Highlanders. Captain Beckwith Ernest Towse
On the 11th December, 1899, at the action of Majesfontein, Captain Towse was brought to notice by his Commanding Officer for his gallantry and devotion in assisting the late Colonel Downman, when mortally wounded, in the retirement, and endeavouring, when close up to the front of the firing line, to carry Colonel Downman on his back; but finding this not possible, Captain Towse supported him till joined by Colour-Sergeant Nelson and Lance-Corporal Hodgson.
On the 30th April, 1900, Captain Towse, with twelve men, took up a position on the top of Mount Thaba, far away from support. A force of about 150 Boers attempted to seize the same plateau, neither party appearing to see the other until they were but 100 yards apart. Some of the Boers then got within 40 yards of Captain Towse and his party, and called on him to surrender. He at once caused his men to open fire and remained firing himself until severely wounded (both eyes shattered), succeeding in driving off the Boers. The gallantry of this Officer in vigorously attacKing the enemy (for he not only fired, but charged forward) saved the situation, notwithstanding the numerical superiority of the Boers.
The London Gazette 29652. Oct 1914.
NORTH-WEST- FRONTIER.
The Tochi Valley and Derajat.
11. During October and November, 1914, various reports were received that attempts were being made to stir up fanaticism along the frontier.
The end of November, 1914, certain influential mullahs in independent territory led a Khostwal lashkar of some 2,000 men to the neighbourhood of Miranshah in the Tochi Valley.
On November 29th a portion of the North Waziristan Militia, under Major G. B. Scott, attacked the enemy and, in a skilfully fought action, inflicted a severe defeat on the tribesmen, who fled in a demoralised condition.
Meanwhile, on the news of the gathering being received, I had arranged for the despatch of suitable reinforcements to Bannu and Thai, and had directed the General Officer Commanding, Derajat Brigade, to reinforce Tank at his discretion.
Major-General H. O'Donnell, C.B., D.S.O., Commanding the Bannu Brigade, whose services I have already brought to notice, had proceeded up the Tochi Valley with the Moveable Column, and had reached Miranshah on December 3rd. At the request of the Chief Commissioner, North-West Frontier Province, the column did nob proceed beyond Miranshah.
The prompt and vigorous action of the North Waziristan Militia checked what might have been a serious rising.
Further reports of hostile gatherings, which threatened the Tochi posts, necessitated the retention of additional troops on this border during December and part of January, but a march carried out by the 4th Brigade along the Bannu border, south-west of Bannu, at the end of December, 1914, had a quieting effect.
On January 7th, 1915, operations were carried out by the Bannu Moveable Column and a portion of the North Waziristan Militia with a view to defeating a large Khostwal lashkar that had crossed into British territory and attacked Spina Khaisora post.
Of the British forces, only the North Waziristan Militia were actually engaged with the enemy, but the operations were successful, the enemy losing some 50-60 men killed and being driven in confusion over the frontier. In his report on.the above action Major-General O'Donnell states that great credit is due to the North Waziristan Militia for the dash and spirit they displayed in the action against great odds and after a long march. For his most conspicuous bravery in this action, in attempting at the cost of his life to rescue one of his men, Captain E. Jotham, 51st Sikhs (Frontier Force), was awarded the Victoria Cross. Although some further gatherings were reported, I was able, on January 11th, to order the withdrawal of most of the extra troops that had been sent to this portion, of the frontier, leaving sufficient to ensure its safeguarding.
Early in March, 1915, reports of hostile gatherings intended to attack the Tochi posts, and the alleged presence of a Mahsud lashkar, again compelled me to order troops to concentrate, on the Derajat, Baniiu and Kohat borders.
On March 26th, 1915, the Baiinu Moveable Column, together with a portion of the North Waziristan Militia, the-whole under the command of Brigadier-General V. B. Fane (age 51), C.B., whose services I have already brought to notice, moved out from Miranshah and attacked a large Khostwal lashkar, estimated at 7,000 to 8,000 men, which was threatening that place.
The attack was entirely successful. The enemy's losses were estimated at 200 killed and 300 wounded, and they retreated rapidly across the frontier.
Our success was largely due to the skilful manner in which a column under Major G. B. Scott, Commandant, North Waziristan Militia, by means of a night march gained a position in rear of the enemy in time to combine with the frontal attack.
Brigadier-General Fane brings to notice the name of Mr. J. A. O. Fitzpatrick, I.C.S., Political Agent, Tochi, who assisted him with sound advice and good information
The London Gazette 28983. War Office, 23rd November, 1914. His Majesty the King has been graciously pleased to approve of the grant of the Victoria Cross to the undermentioned Non-commissioned Officer for conspicuous bravery whilst serving with the Expeditionary Force:—
No. 7753 Lance-Corporal William Fuller (age 30), 2nd Battalion, The Welsh Regiment, for conspicuous gallantry on 14th September [1914], near Chivy on the Aisne, by advancing about 100 yards to pick up Captain Haggard, who was mortally wounded, and carrying him back to cover under very heavy rifle and machine gun fire.
The London Gazette 29264. Special Recommendations.
Commander Edward Unwin (age 51), R.N. While in "River Clyde," observing that the lighters which were to form the bridge to the shore had broken adrift, Commander Unwin left the ship and under a murderous fire attempted to get the lighters into posi tion. He worked on until, suffering from the effects of cold and immersion, he was obliged to return to the ship, where he was wrapped up in blankets. Having in some degree recovered, he returned to his work against the doctor's order and completed it. He was later again attended by the doctor for three abrasions caused by bullets, after which he once more left the ship, this time in a lifeboat, to save some wounded men who were lying in shallow water near the beach. He continued at this heroic labour under continuous fire, until forced to stop through pure physical exhaustion.
Midshipman George L. Drewry, R.N.R. Assisted Commander Unwin at the work of securing the lighters under heavy rifle and maxim fire. He was wounded in the head, but continued his work and twice sub sequently attempted to swim from lighter to lighter with a line.
Midshipman Wilfred St. A. Malleson, R.N. Also assisted Commander Unwin, and after Midshipman Drewry had failed from exhaustion to get a line from lighter to lighter, he swam with it himself and suc ceeded. The line subsequently broke, and he afterwards made two further but unsuc cessful attempts at his self-imposed task.
Able Seaman William1 Chas. Williams, O.N. 186774 (R.F.R. B.3766). Held on to a line in the water for over an hour under heavy fire, until killed.
Seaman R.N.R. George McKenzie Samson, O.N. 2408A. Worked on a lighter all day under fire, attending wounded and getting out lines; he was eventually dangerously wounded by maxim fire.
Admiralty, 16th August, 1915. The King has been graciously pleased to approve of the grant of the Victoria Cross to the undermentioned Officers and men for the conspicuous acts, of bravery mentioned in the foregoing despatch:
Commander Edward Unwin, R.N.
Midshipman Wilfred St. Aubyn Malleson, R.N.
Midshipman George Leslie Drewry, R.N.R.
Able Seaman William Chas. Williams, O.N. 186774 (R.F.R. B.3766) (since killed).
Seaman R.N.R. George McKenzie Samson, O.N. 2408A
In 1916 Archie White VC (age 25) was awarded the Victoria Cross. See The London Gazette 29802 Supplement.
The London Gazette 29802 Supplement. 26 Oct 1916. His Majesty The King has been graciously pleased to award the Victoria Cross to the undermentioned ''Officers, Non-commissioned Officers and Men:
Temporary Captain Archie Cecil Thomas White (age 26), Yorkshire Regiment.
For most conspicuous bravery. He was in command of the troops that held the southern and western faces of a redoubt. For four days and nights, by his indomitable dispositions, he held his position under heavy fire of all kinds and against several counterattacks. Though short of supplies and ammunition, his determination never wavered. When the enemy attacked in greatly superior numbers and had almost ejected our troops from the redoubt, he personally led a counter-attack, which finally cleared the enemy out of the southern and western faces. He risked his life continually, and was the life and soul of the defence.
On 11 Feb 1918 Lieutenant Colonel Neville Bowes Elliott-Cooper VC (age 29) died whilst a prisoner of war. He had been awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions at the Battle of Cambrai the citation reading ...
For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty. Hearing that the enemy had broken through our outpost line, he rushed out of his dug-out, and on seeing them advancing across the open he mounted the parapet and dashed forward calling upon the Reserve Company and details of the Battalion Headquarters to follow. Absolutely unarmed, he made straight for the advancing enemy, and under his direction our men forced them back 600 yards. While still some forty yards in front he was severely wounded. Realising that his men were greatly outnumbered and suffering heavy casualties, he signalled to them to withdraw, regardless of the fact that he himself must be taken prisoner. By his prompt and gallant leading he gained time for the reserves to move up and occupy the line of defence.
Monument in Ripon Cathedral [Map].
Lieutenant Colonel Neville Bowes Elliott-Cooper VC: On 22 Jan 1889 he was born to Robert Elliott-Cooper.
The London Gazette 30675. 08 May 1918. War Office.
His Majesty the King has been graciously pleased to approve of the award of the Victoria Cross to the undermentioned Officers, Non-Commissioned Officer and Men:
Maj (A /Lt -Col) Oliver Cyril Spencer Watson. D S O (R of O ), late K O Yorks LI
For most conspicuous bravery, self-sacrificing devotion to duty, and exceptionally gallant leading during a critical period of operations. [On 28 Mar 1918]
His command was at a point where continual attacks were made by the enemy in order to pierce the line, and an intricate system of old trenches in front, coupled with the fact that his position was under constant rifle and machine-gun fire, rendered the situation still more dangerous.
A counter-attack had been made against the enemy position, which at first achieved its object, but as they were holding out in two improvised strong points, Lt-Col Watson saw that immediate action was necessary, and he led his remaining small reserve to the attack, organising bombing parties and leading attacks under intense rifle and machine-gun fire.
Outnumbered, he finally oidered his men to retire, remaining, himself in a communication trench to cover the retirement, though he faced almost certain death by so doing.
The assault he led was at a cntical moment, and without doubt saved the line. Both in the assault and in covering his men's retirement, he held his life as nothing, and his splendid bravery inspired all troops in the vicinity to rise to the occasion and save a breach being made in a hardly tried and attenuated line.
Lt-Col Watson was killed while covering the withdrawal.
The London Gazette 37346. [13 Nov 1945]. Temporary Acting Leading Seaman James Joseph Magennis (age 26), D/JX. 144907. Leading Seaman Magennis served as Diver in His Majesty's Midget Submarine XE-3 for her attack on 31st July, 1945, on a Japanese cruiser of the Atago class. Owing to the fact that XE-3 was tightly jammed under the target the diver's hatch could not be fully opened, and Magennis had to squeeze himself through the narrow space available. He experienced great difficulty in placing his limpets on the bottom of the cruiser owing both to the foul state of the bottom and to the pronounced slope upon which the limpets would not hold. Before a limpet could be placed therefore Magennis had thoroughly to scrape the area clear of barnacles, and in order to secure the limpets he had to tie them in pah's by a line passing under the cruiser keel. This was very tiring work for a diver, and he was moreover handicapped by a steady leakage of oxygen which was ascending in bubbles to the surface. A lesser man would have been content to place a few limpets and then to return to the craft. .Magennis, however, persisted until he had placed his full outfit before returning to the craft in an exhausted condition. Shortly after withdrawing Lieutenant Fraser endeav oured to jettison his limpet carriers, but one of these would not release itself and fall clear of the craft. Despite his exhaustion, his oxygen leak and the fact that there was every probability of his being sighted, Magennis at once volunteered to leave the craft and free the carrier rather than allow a less experi enced diver to undertake the job. After seven minutes of nerve-racKing work he succeeded in releasing the carrier. Magennis displayed very great courage and devotion to duty and complete disregard for his own safety.
The London Gazette 31012 Seveneth Supplement. Lt. Charles Smith Rutherford, M.C., M.M., Quebec R. [Awarded the Victoria Cross]
For most conspicuous bravery, initiative and devotion to duty. When in command, of an assaulting party Lt. Rutherford found himself a considerable distance ahead of his men, and at the same moment observed a fully armed strong enemy party outside a "Pill Box" ahead of him. He beckoned to them with his revolver to come to him, in return they waved to him to come to them. This he boldly, did, and informed them that they were prisoners. This fact an enemy officer disputed and invited Lt. Rutherford to enter the "Pill Box," an invitation he discreetly declined. By masterly bluff, however, he persuaded the enemy that they were surrounded, and the whole party of 45, including two officers and three machine guns, surrendered to him.
Subsequently he induced the enemy officer to stop the fire of an enemy machine-gun close by, and Lt. Rutherford took advantage of the opportunity to hasten the advance of his men to his support.
Lt. Rutherford then observed that the right, assaulting party was held up by heavy "machine-gun fire from another "Pill Box." Indicating an objective to the remainder of his party he attacked the "Pill Box" with a Lewis gun section and captured a further 35 prisoners with machine guns, thus enabling the party to continue their advance. The bold and, gallant action of this officer contributed very materially to the capture of the main objective and was a wonderful inspiration to all ranks in pressing home the attack on a very strong position.
The London Gazette 31012 Seveneth Supplement. No. 426402 A. /Sjt. Arthur George Knight late Alberta R. [Awarded the Victoria Cross]
For most conspicuous bravery, initiative, and devotion to duty when, after an unsuccessful attack, Sjt. Knight led a bombing section forward, under very heavy fire of all descriptions, and engaged the enemy at close quarters. Seeing that his party continued to be held up, he dashed forward alone, bayoneting several of the enemy machine-gunners and trench mortar crews, and forcing the remainder to retire in confusion. He then brought forward a Lewis gun and directed his fire on the retreating enemy, inflicting many casualties.
In the subsequent advance of his platoon in pursuit, Sjt. Knight saw a party of about thirty of the enemy go into a deep tunnel which led off the trench. He again dashed forward alone, and, having killed one officer and two N.C.O.'s, captured twenty other ranks. Subsequently he routed, single-.handed, another enemy party which was opposing the advance of his platoon. On each occasion he displayed the greatest valour under fire at very close range, and by his example of courage, gallantry, and initiative was a wonderful inspiration to all.
This very gallant N.C.O. was subsequently fatally wounded
The London Gazette 31012 Seveneth Supplement. No. 240194 Sgt. Laurence Calvert, M.M. K.O.Y.L.I. (Conisbro'). [Awarded the Victoria Cross]
For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty in attack when the success of the operation was rendered doubtful owing, to severe enfilade machine-gun fire. Alone and single-handed Sjt. Calvert, rushing forward against the machine-gun team, bayoneted three and shot four.
His valour and determination in capturing single-handed two machine guns and killing the crews thereof enabled the ultimate objective to be won.. His personal gallantry inspired all ranks.
The London Gazette 31012 Seveneth Supplement. T. /2nd Lt. William Allison White, M.G. Corps. [Awarded the Victoria Cross]
For most conspicuous bravery and initiative in attack. When the advance of the infantry was being delayed by an enemy machine gun, he rushed the gun position single-handed, shot the three gunners, and captured the gun. Later, in similar circumstances, he attacked a gun accompanied by two men, but both of the latter were immediately shot down. He went on alone to the gun position and bayoneted or shot the team of five men and captured the gun. On a third occasion, when the advance was held up by hostile fire from an enemy position, he collected a small party and rushed the position, inflicting heavv losses on the garrison.
Subsequently, in consolidating the position by the skilful use of captured enemy and his own machine guns, he inflicted severe casualties on the enemy. His example of fearless and unhesitating devotion to duty under circumstances of great personal danger greatly inspired the neighbouring troops, and his action had a marked effect on the operations.
The London Gazette 31012 Seveneth Supplement. T./Comdr. Daniel Marcus William Beak, D.S.O., M.C., B.N.V.R. [Awarded the Victoria Cross]
For most conspicuous bravery, courageous leadership and devotion to duty during a prolonged period of operations.
He led his men in attack, and, despite heavy machine-gun fire, four enemy positions were captured. His skilful and fearless leadership resulted in the complete success of this operation and enabled other battalions to reach-their objectives.
Four days later, though dazed by a shell fragment, in the absence of the brigade commander, he reorganised the whole brigade under.extremely heavy gun "fire and led his men with splendid courage to their objective.
An attack having been held up he rushed forward, accompanied by only one runner, and succeeded in breaKing up a nest of machine guns, personally bringing back nine or ten prisoners. His fearless example instilled courage and confidence in his men, who then quickly resumed the advance under his leadership.
On a subsequent occasion he displayed great courage and powers of leadership in attack, and his initiative, coupled with the confidence with which he inspired all ranks, not only enabled his own and a neighbouring unit to advance, but contributed very materially to the success of the Naval Division in these operations.
The London Gazette 31012 Seveneth Supplement. Lt.-Col. Cyrus Wesley Peck, D.S.O., Manitoba R. [Awarded the Victoria Cross]
For most conspicuous bravery and skilful leading when in attack under intense fire. His command quickly captured the first objective, but progress to the further objective was held up by enemy machine-gun fire on his right flank.
The situation being critical in the extreme, Colonel Peck pushed forward and made a personal reconnaissance under heavy machine-gun and sniping fire, across a stretch of ground which was heavily swept by fire.
Having reconnoitred the position he returned, reorganised his battalion, and, acting upon the knowledge personally gained; pushed them forward and arranged to protect his flanks. He then went out under the most intense artillery and machine-gun fire, intercepted the Tanks, gave them the neces sary directions, pointing out where they were to make for, and thus pave the way for a Canadian Infantry battalion to push forward. To this battalion he subsequently gave requisite support.
His magnificent display of courage and fine qualities of leadership enabled the advance to be continued, although always under heavy artillery and machine-gun fire, and contributed largely to the success of the brigade attack.
The London Gazette 31012 Seveneth Supplement. No. 24/213 fijt. Harry John Laurent, N.Z. Rif. Bde. [Awarded the Victoria Cross]
For most conspicuous bravery, skill, and enterprise when during an attack he was detailed to exploit an initial success and keep in touch with the enemy. With a party of twelve he located the enemy support line very strongly held, at once charged the position, followed by his men, and completely disorganised the enemy by his sudden onslaught.
In the subsequent hand-to-hand fighting which ensued he showed great resourcefulness in controlling and encouraging his men, and thirty of the enemy having been killed, the remainder surrendered, a total of one officer and 111 other ranks in all. The success of this daring venture, which caused his party four casualties only, was due to his gallantry and enterprise.