Remembered St Etheldredas Church,Hatfield Hertfordshire In the period 22/27 March during the fighting from Marcoing to Albert, France, he committed acts which earned him the Victoria Cross. He died in action on 27 March 1918. For most conspicuous bravery, skilful leading and handling of his battalion in very critical situations during a withdrawal. When the rear guard was almost surrounded and in great danger of being captured, Lieutenant-Colonel Collings-Wells, realising the situation, called for volunteers to remain behind and hold up the enemy whilst the remainder of the rearguard withdrew and, with his small body of volunteers held them up for over one and a half hours until they had expended every round of ammunition. During this time he moved freely amongst his men, guiding them and encouraging them and, by his great courage, undoubtedly saved the situation. On a subsequent occasion, when his battalion was ordered to carry out a counter -attack, he showed the greatest bravery. Knowing that his men were extremely tired after six days fighting, he placed himself in front and led the attack and, even when twice wounded, refused to leave them, but continued to lead and encourage his men until he was killed at the moment of gaining their objective. The successful results of the operation were, without doubt, due to the undaunted courage exhibited by this officer. John Stanhope Collings-Wells - Wikipedia
UK, Victoria Cross Medals, 1857-2007 Name: John Stanhope Collings-Wells Birth Date: 19 Jul 1880 Birth Place: Caddington Hall, Markyate, Bedfordshire Death Date: 27 Mar 1918 Death Place: Near The Railway Line West of Albert, France TD
