All The Victoria Crosses of World War Two

Discussion in 'General' started by Drew5233, Jun 6, 2009.

  1. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Charles Cecil Ingersoll Merritt

    Rank: Lieutenant Colonel

    Unit: The South Saskatchewan Regiment, Canadian Army

    Awarded: 22nd June 1945

    Nationality: Canadian

    The citation in the London Gazette of 2nd October 1942, gives the following details:

    For matchless gallantry and inspiring leadership whilst commanding his battalion during the Dieppe raid on the 19th August, 1942.

    From the point of landing, his unit's advance had to be made across a bridge in Pourville which was swept by very heavy machine-gun, mortar and artillery fire: the first parties were mostly destroyed and the bridge thickly covered by their bodies. A daring lead was required; waving his helmet, Lieutenant-Colonel Merritt rushed forward shouting " Come on over! There's nothing to worry about here."

    He thus personally led the survivors of at least four parties in turn across the bridge. Quickly organizing these, he led them forward and when held up by enemy pillboxes he again headed rushes which succeeded
    in clearing them. In one case he himself destroyed the occupants of the post by throwing grenades into it. After several of his runners became casualties, he himself kept contact with his different positions.

    Although twice wounded Lieutenant-Colonel Merritt continued to direct the unit's operations with great vigour and determination and while organizing the withdrawal he stalked a sniper with a Bren gun and silenced him. He then coolly gave orders for the departure and announced his intention to hold off and "get even with" the enemy. When last seen he was collecting Bren and Tommy guns and preparing a defensive position which successfully covered the withdrawal from the beach.

    Lieutenant-Colonel Merritt is now reported to be a Prisoner of War.

    To this Commanding Officer's personal daring, the success of his unit's operations and the safe re-embarkation of a large portion of it were chiefly due.


    Additional Infomation:

    After graduating from the Military College of Canada Merritt left to study the bar and became a barrister in 1932.

    After the war Merritt became a Member of the Canadian Houses of Parliment.

    Later he returned to practise law in Vancouver.

    He was eventually made Honoury Colonel of the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada.

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    Ocean View Burial Park, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
     
  2. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    John Weir Foote

    Rank: Honorary Captain

    Unit: Canadian Chaplain’s Service, Canadian Army

    Awarded: 28th March 1946

    Nationality: Canadian


    The citation in the London Gazette of 12th February 1946, gives the following details:

    At Dieppe, on 19th August, 1942, Honorary Captain Foote, Canadian Chaplain Services, was Regimental Chaplain with the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry.

    Upon landing on the beach under heavy fire he attached himself to the Regimental Aid Post -which had been set up -in a slight depression on the beach, but which was only sufficient to give cover to men lying down. During the subsequent period of approximately eight hours, while the action continued, this officer not only assisted the Regimental Medical Officer in ministering to the wounded in .the Regimental Aid Post, but time and again left this shelter to inject morphine, give first-aid and carry wounded personnel from the open beach to the Regimental Aid Post. On these occasions, with utter disregard for his personal safety, Honorary Captain Foote exposed himself to an inferno of fire and saved many lives by his gallant efforts. During the action, as the tide went out, the Regimental Aid Post was moved to the shelter of a. stranded landing craft.

    Honorary Captain Foote continued tirelessly and courageously to carry wounded men from the exposed beach to the cover of the landing craft. He also removed wounded 'from inside the landing craft when ammunition had been set on fire by enemy shells. When landing craft appeared he carried wounded from the Regimental Aid Post to the landing craft through very heavy fire.

    On several occasions this officer had the opportunity to embark but returned to 'the beach as his chief concern was the care and evacuation of the wounded. He refused a final opportunity to leave the shore, choosing to suffer the fate of the men he had ministered to for over three years.

    Honorary Captain Foote personally saved many lives by his efforts and his example inspired all around him. Those who observed him state that the calmness of this heroic officer, as he walked about, collecting the wounded on the fire-swept beach will never be forgotten.


    Additional Infomation:

    Foote is the only member of the Canadian Chaplin Service to be awarded the VC.

    Later promoted to Major

    Foote was made a Honoury Colonel of the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry.

    Foote has a Royal Canadian Legion branch and a street named after him.

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    St. Andrews Presbyterian Churchyard (Union Cemetery), Cobourg, Ontario, Canada
     
  3. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Bruce Steel Kingsbury

    Rank: Private

    Unit: 2/14th Battalion, Australian Army

    Awarded: 20th November 1943

    Nationality: Australian

    The following details are given in the London Gazette of February 5th, 1943:

    In New Guinea, the Battalion to which Private Kingsbury belonged had been holding a position in the Isurava area for two days against continuous and fierce enemy attacks. On the 29th August, 1942, the enemy attacked in such force that they succeeded in breaking through the Battalion's right flank, creating a serious threat both to the rest of the Battalion and to its Headquarters. To avoid the situation becoming more desperate, it was essential to regain immediately the lost ground on the right flank.

    Private Kingsbury, who was one of the few survivors of a Platoon which had been over run and severely cut about by the enemy, immediately volunteered to join a different platoon which had been ordered to counter-attack.

    He rushed forward firing his Bren gun from the hip through terrific machine-gun fire and succeeded in clearing a path through the enemy. Continuing to sweep the enemy positions with his fire and inflicting an extremely high number of casualties on them, Private Kingsbury was then seen to fall to the ground shot dead, by the bullet from a sniper hiding in the wood.

    Private Kingsbury displayed a complete disregard for his own safety. His initiative and superb courage made possible the recapture of the position which undoubtedly saved Battalion Headquarters as well as causing heavy casualties amongst the enemy. His coolness, determination and devotion to duty in the face of great odds was an inspiration to his comrades.


    Additional Infomation:

    Kingsbury first saw action in North Africa.

    Kingsbury was the first Australian to get a VC for fighting on Australian territory

    Kinsbury's story is featured in the History Channel programme For Valor.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
     
  4. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    John Alexander French

    Rank: Corporal

    Unit: 2/9th Battalion, Australian Army

    Awarded: ?

    Nationality: Australian

    The following details are given in the London Gazette of January 12th, 1943:

    At Milne Bay on the afternoon of the 4th September, 1942, a company of an Australian Infantry Battalion attacked the Japanese position east of the Buna Mission where it encountered terrific rifle and machine-gun fire.

    The advance of the section of which Corporal French was in command was held up by the fire from three enemy machine-gun posts, whereupon Corporal French, ordering his section to take cover, advanced and silenced one of the posts with grenades. He returned to his section for more grenades and again advanced and silenced the second post. Armed with a Thompson sub-machine gun, he then attacked the third post, firing from the hip as he went forward. He was seen to be badly hit by the fire from this post, but he continued to advance. The enemy gun then ceased to fire and his section pushed on to find that all members of the three enemy gun crews had been killed and that Corporal French had died in front of the third gun pit.

    By his cool courage and disregard of his own personal safety, this non-commissioned officer saved the members of his section from heavy casualties and was responsible for the successful conclusion of the attack.


    Additional Infomation:

    When war became a certainty French was the first in his town to enlist.

    While in the UK, he was chosen as one of the bodyguards for King George VI and Winston Churchill.

    French's VC was the second awarded for fighting in Australian territory.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
     
  5. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    William Henry Kibby

    Rank: Sergeant

    Unit: 2/48th Infantry Battalion, Australian Imperial Force

    Awarded: 26th November 1943

    Nationality: Australian

    The citation in the London Gazette of 28th January 1943 gives the following particulars:

    During the initial attack at Miteiriya Ridge on the 23rd October, 1942, the Commander of No. 1-7 Platoon, to which Sergeant Kibby belonged, was killed. No sooner had Sergeant Kibby assumed command, than his Platoon was ordered to attack strong enemy positions holding up the advance of his Company.

    Sergeant Kibby immediately realised the necessity for quick decisive action and without thought for his personal safety he dashed forward towards the enemy posts firing his Tommy-gun. This rapid and courageous individual action resulted in the complete silencing of the enemy fire, by the killing of three of the enemy and the capture of twelve others. With these posts silenced, his Company was then able to continue the advance.

    After the capture of TRIG 29 on the 26th October, intense enemy artillery concentrations were directed on the battalion area, which were invariably followed with counterattacks by tanks and infantry. Throughout the attack that culminated in the capture of TRIG 29 and the re-organisation period which followed, Sergeant Kibby moved from section to section personally directing their fire and cheering the men, despite the fact that the
    Platoon, throughout was suffering heavy casualties. Several times, when under intense machine-gun fire, he went out arid mended the platoon line communications, thus allowing mortar concentrations to be directed effectively against the attacks on his Company's front. His whole demeanour during this difficult phase in the operations was an inspiration to his Platoon.

    On the night of the 30th-31st October when the Battalion attacked "ring contour" 25, behind the enemy lines, it was necessary for No. 17 Platoon to move through the most withering enemy machine-gun fire in order to reach its objective. These conditions did not deter Sergeant Kibby from pressing forward right to the objective, despite his Platoon being mown down by machine-gun fire from point blank range. One pocket of resistance still remained and Sergeant Kibby went forward alone throwing grenades to destroy the enemy now only a few yards distant. Just as success appeared certain, he was killed by a burst of machine-gun fire.

    Such outstanding courage, tenacity of purpose and devotion to duty was entirely responsible for the successful capture of the Company's objective. His work was an inspiration to all and he left behind him an example and the memory of a soldier who fearlessly and unselfishly fought to the end to carry out his duty.


    Additional Infomation:

    Originally from County Durham.

    Kibby Joined the Royal Australian Artillery in 1936.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    El Alamein War Cemetery, Eygpt
     
  6. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Percival Eric Gratwick

    Rank: Private

    Unit: 2/48th Infantry Battalion, Australian Imperial Force

    Awarded: 21st November 1943

    Nationality: Australian

    The citation in the London Gazette of 28th January, 1943, gives the following details:

    During the attack on TRIG 29 at Miteiriya Ridge on the night of the 25th-26th October, 1942, the Company to which Private Gratwick belonged met with severe opposition from strong enemy positions which delayed the capture of the Company's objective and caused a considerable number of casualties. Private Gratwick's Platoon was directed at these strong positions but its advance-was stopped by intense enemy fire at short range.

    Withering fire of all kinds killed the platoon commander, the platoon sergeant and many other ranks, and reduced the total strength of the Platoon to seven. Private Gratwick grasped the seriousness of the situation and acting on his own initiative, with utter disregard for his own safety, at a time when the remainder of the Platoon were pinned down, charged the nearest post and completely destroyed the enemy with hand grenades, killing amongst others a complete mortar crew. As soon as this task was completed, and again under heavy machine-gun fire, he charged the second post with rifle and bayonet. It was from this post that the heaviest fire had been directed. He inflicted further casualties and was within striking distance of his objective, when he was killed by a burst of machine-gun fire.

    By his brave and determined action, which completely unnerved the enemy and by his successful reduction of the enemy's strength, Private Gratwick's Company was able to move forward and mop up its objective. Private Gratwick's unselfish courage, his gallant and determined efforts against the heaviest opposition changed a doubtful situation into the successful capture of his Company's final objective.


    Additional Infomation:

    Gratwick has a ward named after him in the Private hospital, The Repatriation General Hospital, Hollywood, Australia.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    El Alamein War Cemetery, Eygpt
     
  7. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Victor Buller Turner

    Rank: Major Temporary Lieutenant Colonel

    Unit: The Rifle Brigade (Prince Consort’s Own), British Army

    Awarded: 27th July 1943

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 17th November 1943, gives the following details:

    For most conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty on the 27th October 1942, in the Western Desert.

    Lieutenant-Colonel Turner led a Battalion of the Rifle Brigade at night for 4,000 yards through difficult country to their objective, where 40 German prisoners were captured. He then organised the captured position for all-round defence; in this position he and his Battalion were continuously attacked from 5.30 a.m. to 7 p.m., unsupported and so isolated that replenishment of ammunition was impossible owing to the concentration and accuracy of the enemy fire.

    During this time the Battalion was attacked by not less than 90 German tanks which advanced in successive waves. All of these were repulsed with a loss to the enemy of 35 tanks which were in flames, and not less than 20 more which had been immobilised.

    Throughout the action Lieutenant-Colonel Turner never ceased to go to each part of the front as it was threatened. Wherever the fire was heaviest there he was to be found.

    In one case, finding a solitary six-pounder gun in action (the others being casualties) and manned only by another officer and a Sergeant, he acted as loader and with these two destroyed 5 enemy tanks. While doing this he was wounded in the head, but he refused all aid until the last tank was destroyed.

    His personal gallantry and complete disregard of danger as he moved about encouraging his Battalion to resist to the last, resulted in the infliction of a severe defeat on the enemy tanks. He set an example of leadership and bravery which inspired his whole Battalion and which will remain an inspiration to the Brigade.


    Additional Infomation:

    Turner has two other relatives who were awarded the VC, one a older brother.

    Also awarded the CVO.

    Cremated at St. Faith's Crematorium, Norwich, Norfolk.
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    Ashes interned at St. Mary's Churchyard, Ditchingham, Norfolk.
     
  8. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Frederick Thornton Peters

    Rank: Captain

    Unit: HMS Excellent, Royal Navy

    Awarded: ?

    Nationality: Canadian

    The citation in the London Gazette of 14th May 1943, reads:

    For valour in taking H.M.S. Walney, in an enterprise of desperate hazard, into the harbour of Oran on 8th November 1942. Captain Peters led his force through the boom towards the jetty in the face of point-blank fire from the shore batteries, a destroyer and a cruiser. Blinded in one eye, he alone of the seventeen officers and men on the bridge survived. The Walney reached the jetty disabled and ablaze, and went down with her colours flying.


    Additional Infomation:

    Also awarded the DSO and DSC and Bar.

    Peters was killed 5 days later in a air crash.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Portsmouth Naval Memorial
     
  9. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Rawdon Hume Middleton

    Rank: Flight Sergeant

    Unit: No.149 Squadron, Royal Air Force Attached from Royal Australian Air Force

    Awarded: 30th October 1943

    Nationality: Australian

    The following details are given in the London Gazette of 12 January, 1943:

    Flight Sergeant Middleton was captain and first pilot of a Stirling aircraft detailed to attack the Fiat Works at Turin one night in November, 1942. Great difficulty was experienced in climbing to 12,000 feet to cross the Alps, which led to excessive consumption of fuel. So dark was the night that the mountain peaks were almost invisible.

    During the crossing Flight Sergeant Middleton had to decide whether to proceed or turn back there being barely sufficient fuel for the return journey. Flares were sighted ahead and he continued the mission and even dived to 2,000 feet to identify the target, despite the difficulty of regaining height. Three flights were made over Turin at this low altitude before the target was identified. The aircraft was then subjected to fire from light anti-aircraft guns.

    A large hole appeared in the port main plane which made it difficult to maintain lateral control. A shell then burst in the cockpit, shattering the windscreen and wounding both pilots. A piece of shell splinter tore into the side of Flight Sergeant Middleton's face, destroying his right eye and exposing the bone over the eye. He was probably wounded also in the body or legs. The second pilot received wounds in the head and both legs which bled profusely. The wireless operator was also wounded in the leg.

    Flight Sergeant Middleton became unconscious and the aircraft dived to 800 feet before control was regained by the second pilot who took the aircraft up to 1500 feet and released the bombs. There was still light flak, some very intense, and the aircraft was hit many times. The three gunners replied continuously until the rear turret was put out of action.

    Flight Sergeant Middleton had now recovered consciousness and, when clear of the target, ordered the second pilot back to receive first aid. Before this was completed the latter insisted on returning to the cockpit, as the captain could see very little and could only speak with loss of blood and great pain. Course was set for base and the crew now faced an Alpine crossing and a homeward flight in a damaged aircraft, with insufficient fuel. The possibilities-of abandoning the aircraft or landing in Northern France were discussed but Flight Sergeant Middleton expressed the intention of trying to make the
    English coast, so that his crew could leave the aircraft by parachute. Owing to his wounds and diminishing strength, he knew that, by then, he would have little or no chance of saving himself. After four hours, the French coast was reached and here the aircraft, flying at 6,000 feet, was once more engaged and hit by intense light anti-aircraft fire. Flight Sergeant Middleton was still at the controls and mustered sufficient strength to take evasive action.

    After crossing the Channel there was only sufficient fuel for minutes flying. Flight Sergeant Middleton ordered the crew to abandon the aircraft while he flew parallel with the coast for a few miles, after which he intended to head out to sea. Five of the crew left the aircraft safely, while two remained to assist Flight Sergeant Middleton. The aircraft crashed in the sea and the bodies of the front gunner and flight engineer were recovered the following day. Their gallant captain was apparently unable to leave the aircraft and his body has not been traced.

    Flight Sergeant Middleton was determined to attack the target regardless of the consequences and not to allow his crew to fall into enemy hands. While all the crew displayed heroism of a high order, the urge to do so came from Flight Sergeant Middleton, whose fortitude and strength of will made possible the completion of the mission. His devotion to duty in the face of overwhelming odds is unsurpassed in the annals of the Royal Air Force.


    Additional Infomation:

    Posthumously promoted to Pilot Officer

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    St. John's Churchyard, Beck Row, Suffolk
     
  10. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Hugh Gordon Malcolm

    Rank: Acting Wing Commander

    Unit: No.18 Squadron, Royal Air Force

    Awarded: 11th June 1943

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 28th April, 1943 gives the following details:

    This officer commanded a squadron of light bombers in North Africa. Throughout his service in that theatre his leadership, skill and daring were of the highest order.

    On 17th November, 1942, he was detailed to carry out a low-level formation attack on Bizerta airfield, taking advantage of cloud cover. Twenty miles from the target the sky became clear, but Wing Commander Malcolm carried on, knowing well the danger of proceeding without a fighter escort. Despite fierce opposition, all bombs were dropped within the airfield perimeter. A Junkers 52 and a Messerschmitt 109 were shot down; many dispersed enemy aircraft were raked by machine gun fire. Weather conditions became extremely unfavourable and as a result, two of his aircraft were lost by collision; another was forced down by enemy fighters. It was due to this officer's skilful and resolute leadership that the remaining aircraft returned safely to base.

    On 28th November, 1942, he again led his squadron against Bizerta airfield which was bombed from a low altitude. The airfield on this occasion was heavily defended and intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire was met. Nevertheless, after his squadron had released their bombs, Wing Commander Malcolm led them back again and again to attack the airfield with machine gun fire.

    These were typical of every sortie undertaken by this gallant officer; each attack was pressed to an effective conclusion however difficult the task and however formidable the opposition.

    Finally, on 4th December, 1942, Wing Commander Malcolm, having been detailed to give close support to the First Army, received an urgent request to attack an enemy fighter airfield hear Chouigui. Wing Commander Malcolm knew that to attack such an objective without a fighter escort which could not be arranged in the time available would be to court almost certain disaster; but believing the attack to be necessary for the success of the Army's operations, his duty was clear. He decided to attack. He took off with his squadron and reached the target unmolested, but when he had successfully attacked it, his squadron was intercepted by an overwhelming force of enemy fighters. Wing Commander Malcolm fought back, controlling his hard-pressed squadron and attempting to maintain formation. One by one his aircraft were shot down until only his own aircraft remained. In the end he, too, was shot down in flames.

    Wing Commander Malcolm's last exploit was the finest example of the valour and unswerving devotion to duty which he constantly displayed.

    Additional Infomation:

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Beja War Cemetery, Bajah, Tunisia
     
  11. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Herbert Wallace Le Patourel

    Rank: Captain Temporary Major

    Unit: 2nd Battalion, Hampshire Regiment, British Army

    Awarded: 21st October 1943

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 5th March 1943, gives the following details:

    For conspicuous gallantry in action in the TEBOURBA area on the 3rd December, 1942.

    On the afternoon of the 3rd December, 1942, the enemy had occupied an important high feature on the left of the Company commanded by this officer. Counter-attacks by a Company of another Battalion and detachments of Major Le Patourel's Company had been unable to regain the position. This officer then personally led four volunteers under very heavy fire to the top in a last attempt to dislodge several enemy machine guns. The party was heavily engaged by machine gun fire and Major Le Patourel rallied his men several times and engaged the enemy, silencing several machine gun posts.

    Finally when the remainder of his party were all killed or wounded, he went forward alone with a pistol and some grenades to attack enemy machine guns at close quarters and from this action did not return. From reports received from wounded men, this officer died of wounds.

    Major Le Patourel's most gallant conduct and self sacrifice, his brilliant leadership and tenacious devotion to duty in the face of a determined enemy were beyond praise.


    Additional Infomation:

    Initial reports suggested that he had been killed in action and he was awarded the VC posthumously.

    He was later discovered to have survived and been taken prisoner and was in hospital in Italy.

    He was repatriated in 1943, and awarded his VC at a ceremony in Cairo.

    Le Patourel later achieved the rank of Brigadier.

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    South Bristol Crematorium, Bridgewater Road, Bristol.
    Ashes scattered on the fields at the rear of his home.
     
  12. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Robert St. Vincent Sherbrooke

    Rank: Captain

    Unit: HMS Onslow, Royal Navy

    Awarded: 29th June 1943

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 8th January, 1943 gives the following details:

    Captain Sherbrooke, in H.M.S Onslow, was the Senior Officer in 'command of the destroyers escorting an important convoy bound for North Russia. On the morning of 31st December, off the North Cape, he made contact with a greatly superior enemy force which was attempting to destroy the convoy. Captain Sherbrooke led his destroyers into attack and closed the Enemy. Four times the Enemy tried to attack the convoy, but was forced each time to withdraw behind a smoke screen to avoid the threat of torpedoes, and each time Captain Sherbrooke pursued him and drove him outside gun range of the convoy and towards our covering forces. These engagements lasted about two hours, but after the first forty minutes HMS Onslow was hit, and Captain Sherbrooke was seriously wounded in the face and temporarily lost the use of one eye. Nevertheless he continued to direct the ships under his command until further hits on his own ship compelled him to, disengage, but not until he was satisfied that the next Senior, Officer had assumed control. It was only then that he agreed to leave the bridge for medical attention, and until the convoy was out of danger he insisted on receiving all reports of the action.

    His courage, his fortitude and his cool and prompt decisions inspired all around him by his leadership and example the convoy was saved from damage and was brought safely to its destination.

    Additional Infomation:

    Also awarded a CB and DSO.

    His name is spelt Rupert instead of Robert on his grave.

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    St. Peter and St. Paul Churchyard, Oxton, Nottinghamshire
     
  13. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Parkash Singh

    Rank: Havildar

    Unit: 8th Punjab Regiment, Indian Army

    Awarded: 19th December 1945

    Nationality: Indian

    The citation in the London Gazette of 11th May 1943, gives the following details:

    On the 6th January 1943 at Donbaik Mayo Peninsula Burma when two Carriers had been put out of action Havildar Parkash Singh drove forward in his own Carrier and rescued the two crews under very heavy fire. At the time the crews of the disabled carriers had expended their ammunition and the enemy were rushing the two disabled Carriers on foot This N C O s timely and courageous action entirely on his own initiative saved the lives of the crews and their weapons.

    On the 19th January, 1943, in the same area, three Carriers were put out of action by an enemy anti-tank gun and lay on the open beach covered by enemy anti-tank and machine-gun fire. One of these Carriers was carrying the survivors of another Carrier in addition to its own crew. Havildar Parkash Singh, on seeing what had happened, went out from a safe position in his own Carrier, and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, rescued the combined crews from one disabled Carrier, together with the weapons from the Carrier. Having brought the crews to safety, he again went out on the open beach in his Carrier, still under very heavy anti-tank and machine-gun fire and with the utmost disregard to his personal safety, dismounted and connected a towing chain on to a disabled Carrier containing two wounded men. Still under fire, he directed the towing of the disabled Carrier from under enemy fire to a place of safety.

    Havildar Parkash Singh's very gallant actions, entirely on his own initiative, were an inspiration to all ranks both British and Indian.


    Additional Infomation:

    Later promoted to Major.

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    Cremated at Golders Green Crematorium ashes sent to his home village near Jullundur, Punjab, India.
     
  14. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    William Ellis Newton

    Rank: Flight Lieutenant

    Unit: No.22 Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force

    Awarded: 30th November 1945

    Nationality: Australian

    The following details are given in the London Gazette of 15th October, 1943:

    Flight Lieutenant Newton served with No. 22 Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force, in New Guinea from May, 1942, to March, 1943, and completed 52 operational sorties.

    Throughout, he displayed great courage and an iron determination to inflict the utmost damage on the enemy. His splendid offensive flying and fighting were attended with brilliant success.

    Disdaining evasive tactics when under the heaviest fire, he always went straight to his objectives. He carried out many daring machine-gun attacks on enemy positions involving low-flying over long distances in the face of continuous fire at point-blank range.

    On three occasions, he dived through intense anti-aircraft fire to release his bombs on important targets on the Salamaua Isthmus. On one of these occasions, his starboard engine failed over the target, but he succeeded in flying back to an airfield 160 miles away.

    When leading an attack on an objective on 16th March, 1943, he dived through intense and accurate shell fire and his aircraft was hit repeatedly. Nevertheless, he held to his course and bombed his target from a low level. The attack resulted in the destruction of many buildings and dumps, including two 40,000-gallon fuel installations. Although his aircraft was crippled, with fuselage and wing sections torn, petrol tanks pierced, main-planes and engines seriously damaged, and one of the main tyres flat, Flight Lieutenant Newton managed to fly it back to base and make a successful landing.

    Despite this harassing experience, he returned next day to the same locality. His target, this time a single building, was even more difficult but he again attacked with his usual courage and resolution, flying a steady course through a barrage of fire. He scored a hit on the building but at the same moment his aircraft burst into flames.

    Flight Lieutenant Newton maintained control and calmly turned his aircraft away and flew along the shore. He saw it as his duty to keep the aircraft in the air as long as he could so as to take his crew as far away as possible from the enemy's positions. With great skill, he brought his blazing aircraft down on the water. Two members of the crew were able to extricate themselves and were seen swimming to the shore, but the gallant pilot is missing. According to other air crews who witnessed the occurrence, his escape-hatch was not opened and his dinghy was not inflated. Without regard to his own safety, he had done all that man could do to prevent his crew from falling into enemy hands.

    Flight Lieutenant Newton's many examples of conspicuous bravery have rarely been equalled and will serve as a shining inspiration to all who follow him.

    Additional Infomation:

    He was on his fifty-second mission when he was shot down and captured.

    Newton's was the only Victoria Cross awarded to an Australian airman in the South West Pacific theatre of World War II.

    It was also the only one earned by an Australian flying with an RAAF squadron.

    Sadly Newton was executed by beheading.

    A testomony to this brave man a Japanese observer described the prisoner as "composed" in the face of his impending execution, and "unshaken to the last".

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    Lae War Cemetery, Lae, Papua New Guinea
     
  15. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Derek Anthony Seagrim

    Rank: Major Temporary Lieutenant Colonel

    Unit: 7th Battalion, Green Howards (Alexandra Princess of Wales’s
    Own Yorkshire Regiment), British Army

    Awarded: 23rd February 1944

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 11th May, 1943, gives the following details:

    On the night of the 20th/21st March 1943 the task of a Battalion of the Green Howards was to attack and capture an important feature on the left flank of the main attack on the Mareth Line The defence of this feature was very strong and it was protected by an anti-tank ditch twelve feet wide and eight feet deep with minefields on both sides. It formed a new part of the main defences of the Mareth Line and the successful capture of this feature was vital to the success of the main attack.

    From the time the attack was launched the Battalion was subjected to the most intense fire from artillery machine-guns and mortars and it appeared more than probable that the Battalion would be held up entailing failure of the main attack.

    Realizing the seriousness of the situation Lieutenant-Colonel Seagrim placed himself at the head of his Battalion which was at the time, suffering heavy casualties and led it through the hail of fire.

    He personally helped the team which was placing the scaling ladder over the anti-tank ditch and was himself the first to cross it. He led the assault firing his pistol and throwing grenades and personally assaulting two machine-gun posts which were holding up the advance of one of his Companies It is estimated that in this phase he killed, captured twenty Germans.

    This display of leadership and personal courage led directly to the capture of the objective.

    When dawn broke the Battalion was firmly established on the position which was of obvious importance to the enemy who immediately made every effort to regain it Every post was mortared and machine-gunned unmercifully and movement became practically impossible but Lieutenant-Colonel Seagrim was quite undeterred He moved from post to post organising and directing the fire until the attackers were wiped out to a man.

    By his valour disregard for personal safety and outstanding example he so inspired his men that the Battalion successfully took and held its objective thereby allowing the attack to proceed.

    Lieutenant Colonel Seagrim subsequently died of wounds received in action


    Additional Infomation:

    Seagrim's younger brother Hugh received a GC making this the only occassion that brothers have received the UK's highest gallantry awards.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    SFAX War Cemetery, Tunisia
     
  16. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Moana-Nui-a-Kiwa Ngarimu

    Rank: 2nd Lieutenant

    Unit: 28th (Maori) Battalion, 2nd New Zealand Expeditionary Force

    Awarded: 6th October 1943

    Nationality: New Zealander

    The citation in the London Gazette of 1st June, 1943, gives the following details:

    During the action at the Tebaga Gap on the 26th March, 1943, Second-Lieutenant Ngarimu commanded a platoon in an attack upon the vital hill feature, Point 209. He was given the task of attacking and capturing an under feature forward of Point 209 itself and held in considerable strength by the enemy. He led his men with great determination straight up the face of the hill, undeterred by the intense mortar and machine-gun fire which caused considerable casualties. Displaying courage and leadership of the highest order he was himself first on the hill crest, personally annihilating at least two enemy machine-gun posts. In the face of such a determined attack the remainder of the enemy fled, but further advance was impossible as the reverse slope was swept by machine-gun fire from Point 209 itself.

    Under cover of a most intense mortar barrage the enemy counter-attacked, and Second Lieutenant Ngarimu ordered his men to stand up and engage the enemy man for man. This they did with such good effect that the attackers were literally mown down, Second-Lieutenant Ngarimu personally killing several. He was twice wounded, once by rifle fire in the shoulder and later by shrapnel in the leg, and though urged by both his Company and Battalion Commanders to go out, he refused to do so saying that he would stay a little while with his men. He stayed till he met his death the following morning.

    Darkness found this Officer and his depleted platoon lying on the rocky face of the forward slope of the hill feature, with the enemy in a similar position on the reverse slope about twenty yards distant. Throughout the night the enemy repeatedly launched fierce attacks in an attempt to dislodge Second Lieutenant Ngarimu and his men, but each counter-attack was beaten off entirely by Second-Lieutenant Ngarimu's inspired leadership. During one of these counter-attacks the enemy, by using hand grenades, succeed in piercing a certain part of the line. Without hesitation this Officer rushed to the threatened area, and those of the enemy he did not kill he drove back with stones and with his Tommy gun.

    During another determined counter-attack by the enemy, part of his line broke. Yelling orders and encouragement, he rallied his men and led them in a fierce onslaught back into their old positions. All through the night, between attacks, he and his men were heavily harassed by machine-gun and mortar fire, but Second-Lieutenant Ngarimu watched his line very carefully, cheering his men on and inspiring them by his gallant personal conduct. Morning found him still in possession of the hill feature, but only he and two unwounded other ranks remained. Reinforcements were sent up to him. In the morning the enemy again counter-attacked, and it was during this attack that Second-Lieutenant Ngarimu was killed. He was killed on his feet defiantly facing the enemy with his Tommy gun at his hip. As he fell, he came to rest almost on the top of those of the enemy who had fallen, the number of whom testified to his outstanding courage and fortitude.


    Additional Infomation:

    An essay competition has been set up in his name, known as the Ngarimu VC Māori essay competition which comprises both Māori and English categories and is open to students New Zealand wide.

    The second of only three Victoria Crosses awarded to Māori.

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    SFAX War Cemtery, Tunisia
     
  17. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Lalbahadur Thapa

    Rank: Subadar

    Unit: 2nd King Edward VII’s Own Gurhka Rifles, Indian Army

    Awarded: 26th September 1943

    Nationality: Indian

    The citation in the London Gazette of 11th June 1943, gives the following details:

    On the night of 5th-6th April, 1943, during the silent attack on the Rass-Ez-Zouai feature, Subadar Lalbahadur Thapa was second in command of D Company. The Commander of No. 16 Platoon was detached with one Section to secure an isolated feature on the left of the Company's objective. Subadar Lalbahadur Thapa took command of the remaining two Sections and led them forward towards the main feature on the outer ridge, in order to break through and secure the one and only passage by which the vital commanding feature could be seized to cover the penetration of the Division into the hills. On the capture of these hills the whole success of the Corps plan depended. First contact with the enemy was made at the foot of a pathway winding up a narrow cleft. This steep cleft was thickly studded with a series of enemy posts, the inner of which contained an anti-tank gun and the remainder medium machine-guns. After passing through the narrow cleft, one emerges into a small arena with very steep sides, some 200 feet in height, and in places sheer cliff. Into this arena and down its sides numbers of automatic weapons were trained and mortar fire directed.

    The garrison of the outer posts were all killed by Subadar Lalbahadur Thapa and his men by kukri or bayonet in the first rush and the enemy then opened very heavy fire straight down the narrow enclosed pathway and steep arena sides. Subadar Lalbahadur Thapa led his men on and fought his way up the narrow gully straight through the enemy's fire, with little room to manoeuvre, in the face of intense and sustained machine-gun concentrations and the liberal use of grenades by the enemy.

    The next machine-gun posts were dealt with, Subadar Lalbahadur Thapa personally killing two men with his kukri and two more with his revolver. This Gurkha officer continued to fight his way up the narrow bulletswept approaches to the crest. He and two Riflemen managed to reach the crest, where Subadar Lalbahadur Thapa killed another two men with his kukri, the Riflemen killed two more and the rest fled. Subadar Lalbahadur Thapa then secured the whole feature and covered his Company's advance up the defile.

    This pathway was found to be the only practicable route up the precipitous ridge, and by securing it the Company was able to deploy and mop up all enemy opposition on their objective. This objective was an essential feature covering the further advance of the Brigade and of 'the Division, as well as the bridgehead over the anti-tank ditch.

    There is no doubt that the capture of this objective was entirely due to this act of unsurpassed bravery by Subadar Lalbahadur Thapa and his small party in forcing their way up the steep gully, and up the cliffs of the arena under withering fire. The outstanding leadership, gallantry and complete disregard for his own safety shown by Subadar Lalbahadur Thapa were an example to the whole Company, and the ruthless determination of this Gurkha officer to reach his objective and kill his enemy had a decisive effect on the success of the whole operation.


    Additional Infomation:

    Later promoted to Sudabar-Major.


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    Paklihawa Camp Cemetery, Paklihawa, Nepal.
    Grave unmarked outside North perimeterfence on a patch of waste ground.
    Accurate location not recorded.
     
  18. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Lorne MacLaine Campbell
    Rank: Major Temporary Lieutenant Colonel
    Unit: 7th Battalion, Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders (Princess Louise's), British Army
    Awarded: 10th October 1943
    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 4th June, 1943, gives the following details:

    On the 6th April, 1943, in the attack upon the Wadi Akarit position, the task of breaking through the enemy minefield and antitank ditch to the East of the Roumana feature and of forming the initial bridgehead for a Brigade of the 51st Highland Division was allotted to the Battalion of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell.

    The attack had to form up in complete darkness and had to traverse the main offshoot of the Wadi Akarit at an angle to the line of advance. In spite of heavy machinegun and shell fire in the early stages of the attack, Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell successfully accomplished this difficult operation, captured at least 600 prisoners and led his Battalion to its objective, having to cross an un-swept portion of the enemy minefield in doing so.

    Later, upon reaching his objective he found that a gap which had been blown by the Royal Engineers in the anti-tank ditch did not correspond with the vehicle lane which had been cleared in the minefield. Realising the vital necessity of quickly establishing a gap for the passage of anti-tank guns, he took personal charge of this operation. It was now broad daylight and, under very heavy machine-gun fire and shell fire, he succeeded in making a personal reconnaissance and in conducting operations which led to the establishing of a vehicle gap.

    Throughout the day Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell held his position with his Battalion in the face of extremely heavy and constant shell fire, which the enemy was able to bring to bear by direct observation.

    About 1630 hours determined enemy counter-attacks began to develop, accompanied by tanks. In this phase of the fighting Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell's personality dominated the battle field by a display of valour and utter disregard for personal safety, which could not have been excelled. Realising that it was imperative for the future success of the Army plan to hold the bridgehead his Battalion had captured, he inspired his men by his presence in the forefront of the battle, cheering them on and rallying them as he moved to those points where the fighting was heaviest.

    When his left forward company was forced to give ground he went forward alone, into a hail of fire and personally reorganised their position, remaining with the company until the attack at this point was held. As reinforcements arrived upon the scene he was seen standing in the open directing the fight under close range fire of enemy infantry and he continued to do so although already painfully wounded in the neck by shell fire. It was not until the battle died down that he allowed his wound to be dressed. Even then, although in great pain, he refused to be evacuated, remaining with his Battalion and continuing to inspire them by his presence on the field.

    Darkness fell with the Argylls still holding their positions, though many of its officers and men had become casualties.

    There is no doubt that but for Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell's determination, splendid example of courage and disregard of pain, the bridgehead would have been lost. This officer's gallantry and magnificent leadership when his now tired men were charging the enemy with the bayonet and were fighting them at hand grenade range, are worthy of the highest honour, and can seldom have been surpassed in the long history of the Highland Brigade.


    Additional Infomation:

    Also awarded the DSO and Bar, OBE and TD.

    Campbell's Uncle was also awarded a VC.


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    Warriston Cemetery and Crematorium, Edinburgh
     
  19. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Eric Anderson

    Rank: Private

    Unit: 5th Battalion, East Yorkshire Regiment (The Duke of York’s Own), British Army

    Awarded: 27th October 1943

    Nationality: British

    The citation in the London Gazette of 29th July, 1943, gives the following details:

    On the 6th April, 1943, a Battalion of the East Yorkshire Regiment was making a dawn attack on a strong enemy locality on the Wadi Akarit with "A" Company leading.

    After some progress had been made and "A" Company was advancing over an exposed forward slope, it suddenly came under most intense and accurate machine gun and mortar fire from well concealed enemy strong points not more than 200 yards away.
    Further advance in that direction was impossible and "A" Company was able to withdraw behind the crest of a hill, with the exception of a few men who were wounded and pinned to the ground by strong and well directed small arms fire.

    Private Anderson, a stretcher bearer attached to "A" Company, seeing these men lying wounded in "no man's land” quite regardless of his personal safety, went forward alone through intense fire and single handed carried back a wounded soldier to a place of safety where medical attention could be given. Knowing that more men were lying wounded in the open he again went out to the bullet swept slope, located a second wounded man and carried him to safety. Private Anderson went forward once again and safely evacuated a third casualty.

    Without any hesitation or consideration for himself he went out for a fourth time but by now he was the only target the enemy had to shoot at and when he reached the fourth wounded man, and was administering such first aid as he could to prepare for the return journey, he was himself hit and mortally wounded.

    Private Anderson, by his valour, complete disregard for his personal safety, and courage under fire, probably saved the lives of three of his comrades and his example was an inspiration to all who witnessed his gallant acts.


    Additional Infomation:

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:





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    SFAX Cemetery, Tunisia
     
  20. Drew5233

    Drew5233 #FuturePilot 1940 Obsessive

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    Chhelu Ram

    Rank: Company Havildar-Major

    Unit: 6th Rajputana Rifles, Indian Army

    Awarded: 5th January 1945

    Nationality: Indian

    The citation in the London Gazette of 23rd July 1943, gives the following details:

    This N.C.O. displayed most conspicuous bravery, determination, and devotion to duty during the attack by the 5th Indian Infantry Brigade on the DJEBEL GARCI feature on the night of the 19th/20th April, 1943.

    He was with one of the two leading Companies, and during the advance to the Battalion's second objective, the forward troops were held up by an enemy machinegun position on some high ground. Company Havildar-Major Chhelu Ram armed with a "Tommy" gun immediately rushed forward through the intense machine-gun and mortar fire and single-handed silenced the post, killing its three or four occupants and thus enabling the advance to continue.

    When the leading Companies were approaching their third objective the enemy brought down intense machine-gun and mortar fire on them which mortally wounded the Company Commander. Company Havildar-Major Chhelu Ram went to the officer's assistance in a completely exposed position and attended to' him, during which he himself was seriously wounded.

    He then took command of his own Company and elements of the other leading. Company and quickly reorganised them. Almost immediately the enemy put in a heavy counter-attack and our troops began to run short of ammunition. During the fierce hand-to-hand fighting which followed, this N.C.O.'s bravery and determination were beyond praise. Rushing from point to point, wherever the fighting was heaviest, he rallied the men and drove back the enemy with the cry of "Jats and Mohammedans, there must be no withdrawal! We will advance! .Advance! ". He then advanced ahead of the two Companies. Inspired by his fine example, the counter-attack on this vital ground was driven back with bayonets, stones and rocks.

    During this fighting Company Havildar-Major Chhelu Ram was again wounded, this time mortally. He refused, however, to be-carried back and continued to command and inspire his men until finally losing consciousness. A few minutes later he died from the effects of his wounds.

    His magnificent action, leadership, and utter contempt for danger were an inspiration to his men and were the chief contribution to the holding; of what was essentially vital ground.


    Additional Infomation:

    CWGC :: Certificate :poppy:

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    SFAX War Cemetery, Tunisia
     

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