Brave Hearts: Ribbon Register of the Victoria Cross to Canadians

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Brave Chests

Ribbons worn or eligible for Canadian

Victoria Cross winners and those

associated to Canada

By Jim MacMillan-Murphy © 2010

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THE CANADIAN VC RECIPIENTS

By Billy Willbond, MSM, CD.

Who were these courageous young men who won the VC?

They joined up to serve their King and keep the world free.

Many of us knew the wet canteen stories and myths.

About brave guys like our own, BC’s Smokey Smith.

The stories weren’t stretched, were not embellished or twisted.

Because, right now here in this book the citations are listed.

They have a place of honour in our Canadian War Museum.

Their photos and medals groups by the public should be seen.

Listed herein are their pictures and citations of glory.

They tell our military history, the Canadian true story.

As you turn the pages perhaps you should give a thought.

To these brave Canadians who gave all as they fought.

WILLIAM WILLBOND CANADIAN SOLDIER POET

SAANICHTON BC 1841 HRS 15 SEPTEMBER 2010

Military ribbons denote awards and decorations won by the individual in the armed services which

recognize service and personal accomplishments while a member of the armed forces. Together with

military badges, such as wings or hazard badge are a means to outwardly display the highlights of a

service member's career. Interesting enough Billy Bishop would point to his roll of ribbons which

included the VC, DSO, MC and DFC and refer to it as his “fighting row” to illustrate his bravery.

Within this volume the author shares his virtual collection of ribbons and badges of all those who were

awarded the Victoria Cross. You are exposed to recipient’s most important items, their faces, and cap

badge at time of award, their rank and their ribbons, which demonstrates not only their service but, their

sacrifice.

The military ribbons below represent wars and campaigns from the Victorian times to the end of world

war two. As was stated above, on their left chest they wear their history, from orders of chivalry to medals

of long service, from one war to another, Not only commonwealth decorations and medals but foreign

decorations.

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I’ve listed not only commonly accepted Canadian recipients, but those born in Canada, died in Canada or

served in the Canadian forces. I’ve also included the only recipient awarded the VC in Canada. The

portraits allow you to look into the recipients faces and see, they are not supermen, but ordinary

Canadians, doing extraordinary acts.

Don’t forget to refer to the ribbon chart at the back of the book to see what ribbons were awarded.

Jim MacMillan-Murphy

Esquimalt, BC.

Billy Bishop showing off his “fighting row”

Data Guide

Photo of recipient Cap badge at time of award Rank at time of award

Name of recipient

RANK: at time of award

DECORATIONS: other decorations (see ribbon chart

UNIT: at time of award

BORN: place born

ACTION: where was VC action

DIED: date and place of death

FOREIGN DECORATIONS: awarded

REMARKS:

Digest of Citation reads:

4

Wallace Lloyd ALGIE

RANK: Lieutenant

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 20th Battalion, 1st Central Ontario Regiment, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Alton, Ontario - June 10, 1891

ACTION: North east of Cambrai, France– October 11, 1918

DIED: Cambrai, France – October 11, 1918

FOREIGN DECORATIONS:

REMARKS: Killed in this action


On 11th October 1918 north east of Cambrai, France, Lieutenant Algie was with attacking troops which

came under heavy enfilade machine-gun fire from a neighbouring village. Rushing forward with nine

volunteers he shot the crew of an enemy machine-gun and then turned the gun on the enemy, enabling his

party to reach the village. He rushed another machine-gun, killing the crew and capturing an officer and

10 men, thereby clearing the end of the village. He then went back for reinforcements but was killed while

leading them forward.

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William George BARKER

RANK: Major (later Wing Commander)

DECORATIONS: DSO & Bar, MC & 2 Bars

UNIT: 201 Squadron, Royal Air Force (later Canadian Air Force)

BORN: Dauphin, Manitoba - November 3, 1894

ACTION: France – October 27, 1918

DIED: Near Ottawa, Ontario – March 1, 1930

FOREIGN DECORATIONS: Croix de Guerre (France), 2 Italian silver medals for Military Valour

REMARKS: Killed in a flying accident. Awarded a mentioned in dispatches in World War One


On 27 October 1918 over the Foret de Mormal, France, Major Barker attacked a two-seater enemy

aircraft causing it to break up in the air. He was afterwards attacked by a formation of Fokker fighters

and was wounded in both thighs and his elbow was shattered. He lost consciousness twice but each time,

on recovering, went back to the attack and sent three of his opponents down in flames. Finally he brought

his crippled aircraft back to our lines where he crashed on landing.

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Colin Fraser BARRON

RANK: Corporal (later Sergeant)

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 3rd (Toronto) Battalion., Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Baldavie, Byndie, Baniff, Alberta - September 20, 1893

ACTION: Passchendaele, Belgium, November 6, 1917

DIED: Toronto, Ontario - August 15, 1958


REMARKS: served in World War Two


On 6th November 1917 at Passchendaele, Belgium, when his unit was held up by three machine-guns,

Corporal Barren opened fire on them at point-blank range, rushed the guns, killed four of the crew and

captured the remainder. He then turned one of the captured guns on the retiring enemy, causing severe

casualties. This action produced far-reaching results and enabled the advance to continue

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Ian Willoughby BAZALGETTE

RANK: Squadron Leader

DECORATIONS: DFC

UNIT: 635 Squadron RAF No. 8 (Pathfinder Force) Group, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve

BORN: Calgary, Alberta - October 19, 1918

ACTION: Trossy St. Maximin, France - August 4, 1944

DIED: Senantes, France - August 4, 1944




On 4th August 1944 at Trossy St. Maximin, north-west Europe, Squadron Leader Bazalgette was one of

the marking formation spearhead on a daylight raid. When near his target his Lancaster came under

heavy anti-aircraft fire, both starboard engines were put out of action and serious fires broke out. In spite

of this the squadron leader pressed on to the target, marking and bombing it accurately. He then

attempted to bring the burning aircraft safety, having ordered those of the crew who were able to do so to

bail out. He managed to land the Lancaster, but it immediately exploded, killing him and his two

wounded crew members.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Ian_Willoughby_Bazalgette.jpg

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Harry Churchill BEET

RANK: Corporal (later Captain)

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 1st Battalion, Derbyshire Regiment

BORN: Bingham, Nottinghamshire, England - April 1, 1873

ACTION: Wakkerstroom, South Africa - April 22, 1900

DIED: Vancouver, British Columbia - January 10, 1946


REMARKS: He later immigrated to Saskatchewan, Canada, where he fought with the Canadian

Expeditionary Force in WW1. In 1936 he settled in Vancouver where he remained until his death

Citation read:

On 22nd April 1900 at Wakkerstroom, South Africa, an infantry company and two squadrons of the

Imperial Yeomanry had to retire f rom near a farm under a ridge held by the Boers. A corporal was lying

on the ground wounded and Corporal Beet, seeing him, remained behind and put him under cover, bound

up his wounds and, by firing, prevented the enemy from coming down to the farm until dark when a

medical officer came to the wounded man's assistance. Corporal Beet was exposed to very heavy fire

during the whole afternoon.

http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=pis&GRid=7723943&PIgrid=7723943&PIcrid=1968309&PIpi=1509492&

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Edward Donald BELLEW

RANK: Captain

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 7th (1st British Columbia) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Bombay, India - October 28, 1882

ACTION: Kerselaere, Belgium - April 24, 1915

DIED: Kamloops, British Columbia - February 1, 1961


REMARKS: P.O.W. (Prisoner of war) until 1919


On 24th April 1915 near Kerselaere, Belgium, the advance of the enemy was temporarily stayed by

Lieutenant Bellew, the battalion machine-gun officer, who had two guns in action on high ground when

the enemy's attack broke in full force. Reinforcements which were sent forward having been destroyed,

and with the enemy less than 100 yards away and no further assistance in sight, Lieutenant Bellew and a

sergeant decided to fight it out. The sergeant was killed and Lieutenant Bellew wounded, nevertheless, he

maintained his fire until his ammunition failed, when he seized a rifle smashed his machine gun and

fighting to the last, was taken prisoner.

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Philip Eric BENT

RANK: Lieutenant Colonel

DECORATIONS: DSO

UNIT: 9th Bn., The Leicestershire Regiment

BORN: Halifax, Nova Scotia - January 3, 1891

ACTION: East of Polygon Wood, Belgium - October 1, 1917

DIED: Polygon Wood, Belgium - October 1, 1917


REMARKS: Killed in this action Awarded a mentioned in dispatches in World War One


On 1st October 1917 east of Polygon Wood, Zonnebeke, Belgium, when the situation was critical owing

to the confusion caused by a heavy enemy attack and the intense artillery fire, Lieutenant Colonel Bent

collected a platoon that was in reserve and together with men from other companies and various

regimental details, he organised and led them forward to the counter-attack, which was successful and

the enemy were checked. The coolness and magnificent example of the Colonel resulted in the securing of

a portion of the line essential to a subsequent operation, but he was killed whilst leading a charge.


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William Avery "Billy" BISHOP

RANK: Captain (later Air Marshal)

DECORATIONS: CB, DSO & Bar, MC, DFC, ED.

UNIT: 60 Squadron Royal Flying Corps

BORN: Owen Sound, Ontario – February 8, 1894

ACTION: Near Cambrai, France – June 2, 1917 (flying services)

DIED: Palm Beach, Florida, USA - September 11, 1956

FOREIGN DECORATIONS: Knight, Legion of Honour (5th Class) (France), Croix de Guerre (France)

REMARKS: Also served with Royal Air Force, Canadian Air Force and Royal Canadian Air Force.

Served in World War Two Awarded a mentioned in dispatches in World War One


On 2nd June 1917 near Cambrai, France, Captain Bishop, patrolling independently, flew to an enemy

aerodrome where several machines were standing with their engines running. One of the machines took

off, but Captain Bishop fired at very close range and it crashed. He fired at and missed, the second, but

his fire made the pilot swerve and hit a tree. Two more aircraft then took off– He emptied his Lewis -gun

into the forward fuselage of the first and it crashed. He then emptied a whole drum into the fourth

machine which had come up behind him and it dived away. Captain Bishop then flew back to his station.

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Roland Richard Louis BOURKE

RANK: Lieutenant (later Lieutenant Commander)

DECORATIONS: DSO

UNIT: Motor Launch 276, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve

BORN: London, England – November 28, 1885

ACTION: Ostend, Belgium - 9 and May 10, 1918

DIED: Esquimalt, BC – August 29, 1958

FOREIGN DECORATIONS: Chevalier, Legion of Honour (France), Croix de Guerre (France)

REMARKS: also served in Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve served in World War Two Awarded

a mentioned in dispatches in World War One


On 9th and 10th May, 1918 at Ostend, Belgium, after HMS Vindictive's crew had been taken off,

Lieutenant Bourke, Commanding Motor Launch 276 went into the harbour to check that everybody had

got away. After searching and finding no one, he withdrew, but hearing cries from the water he turned

back, found an officer and two seamen clinging to an upturned boat, and rescued them. During this time

the motor launch was under very heavy fire and was hit 55 times, once by a six-inch shell which killed

two of her crew and did considerable damage. Lieutenant Bourke, however, managed to take her into the

open sea, and was taken in tow.

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Alexander Picton BRERETON

RANK: Corporal (later Company Quartermaster Sergeant)

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 8th (Winnipeg Rifles) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Oak River, Manitoba - November 13, 1892

ACTION: East of Amiens, France - August 9, 1918

DIED: Calgary, Alberta - June 11, 1976


REMARKS: served in World War Two


On 9th August 1918 east of Amiens, France during an attack when a line a hostile machine guns opened

fire suddenly on his platoon which was in an exposed position with no cover, Corporal Brereton realised

that unless something was done, his platoon would be annihilated. On his own initiative he at once

sprang forward alone and, reaching one of the enemy machine-gun posts, shot the operator of the gun

and bayoneted the next one who attempted to operate it, whereupon nine others surrendered. His action

inspired the platoon to charge and capture the five remaining posts.

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Jean BRILLANT

RANK: Lieutenant

DECORATIONS: MC

UNIT: 22e Battalion (Canadien Francais), Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Assametquashan, Québec - March 15, 1890

ACTION: East of Meharicourt, France - August 8/9 1918

DIED: Near Amiens, France – August 10, 1918


REMARKS: Died of wounds from this action


On 8th/9th August, 1918 east of Maharicourt, France, Lieutenant Brillant, while capturing a machine

gun which was holding up his company, was wounded but refused to leave his command. Later his

company was again held up by heavy machine-gun fire and Lieutenant Brillant, with two platoons, rushed

to the machine-gun post, capturing 150 prisoners and 15 guns. He was wounded a second time, had his

wounds dressed immediately and again refused to leave his command. Subsequently he led a 'rushing

party' towards a field gun and was again seriously wounded, but continued to advance until he fell

unconscious. He died on the next day.

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Harry BROWN

RANK: Private

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 10th Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Ganonoque, Ontario- May 10, 1898

ACTION: Hill 70 near Loos, France – August 16, 1917

DIED: near Loos, France -August 17, 1917




On 16th August 1917 at Hill 70, near Loos, France, after the capture of a position, the enemy massed in

force and counter-attacked and the situation became critical. All signal wires were cut and Private

Brown and another soldier were given an important message to be delivered at all costs up. The other

messenger was killed and Private Brown's arm was shattered, but he struggled through to complete his

mission before collapsing. He died on of his wounds.

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Hugh CAIRNS

RANK: Sergeant

DECORATIONS: DCM

UNIT: 46th (South Saskatchewan) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Ashington, Northumberland, England - December 4, 1896

ACTION: Valenciennes, France - November 1, 1918

DIED: Valenciennes, France - November 2, 1918

FOREIGN DECORATIONS: Chevalier, Legion of Honour ( France )



On 1st November 1918 at Valenciennes, France, when a machine gun opened fire on his platoon,

Sergeant Cairns seized a Lewis gun and single-handed and, in the face of direct fire, rushed the post,

killed the crew of five and captured the gun. Later, after killing 12 of the enemy and capturing 18 and two

guns, he went with a small party and, although wounded, outflanked more field and machine guns, killing

many and capturing all the guns. After consolidation he went with a battle patrol to exploit Marly and

forced 60 to surrender, but was severely wounded. He later collapsed and Died on next day.

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Frederick William CAMPBELL

RANK: Lieutenant

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 1st (Western Ontario) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Mount Forest, Ontario - June 15, 1867

ACTION: Givenchy, France - June 15, 1915

DIED: near Givenchy, France - June 19, 1915


REMARKS: Died of wounds from this action served during the Boer War


On 15th June 1915 at Givenchy, France, Lieutenant Campbell took two machine gun detachments

forward and in face of heavy fire reached the German front line trench with one gun which he kept in

action after nearly all his detachment had been killed or wounded. When a German counter-attack came,

Lieutenant Campbell advanced his Gun still further and by firing about 1,000 rounds succeeded in

holding the enemy back, but he was mortally wounded and Died on four days later

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Leo CLARKE

RANK: Lance Sergeant (later Sergeant)

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 2nd (Eastern Ontario Regiment) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Hamilton, Ontario - December 1, 1892

ACTION: Near Pozieres, France - September 9, 1916

DIED: Etretat, France - October 19, 1916


REMARKS: Killed later in the war


On 9th September 1916, near Pozieres, France, Corporal Clarke was detailed with the section of

bombers, to cover the construction of a " block " in a newly captured trench. Most of his party had

become casualties when about 20 of the enemy, with two officers, counter-attacked. The corporal

advanced, emptying his revolver into them; then he picked up two enemy rifles and fired those too. One of

the officers attacked with a bayonet, wounding Corporal Clarke in the leg, but he shot him dead, and

pursuing the rest of the Germans, shooting four more and capturing a fifth.

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William Hew CLARK-KENNEDY


DECORATIONS: CMG, DSO & Bar. ED.


BORN: Dunskey, Wigtownshire, Scotland -March 3, 1879

ACTION: Fresnes-Rouvroy line, France - August 27/28, 1918

DIED: Montreal, Quebec - October 25, 1961

FOREIGN DECORATIONS: Croix de Guerre ( France )

REMARKS: served in the Boer war


On 27th/28th August, 1918 on the line at Fresnes-Rouvroy , France, the Brigade, of which Lieutenant

Colonel Clark-Kennedy's Battalion was a central unit, suffered heavy casualties. At this point, the colonel

encouraged his men and led them forward, then by controlling the direction of neighbouring units and

collecting stragglers he enabled the whole Brigade front to advance. The following day he was severely

wounded, but despite intense pain and loss of blood, he refused to be evacuated until he had gained a

position from which the advance could be resumed.

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Hampden Zane Churchill COCKBURN

RANK: Lieutenant (later Major)

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: The Royal Canadian Dragoons

BORN: Toronto, Ontario - November 19, 1867

ACTION: Komati River, South Africa - November 7, 1900

DIED: Toronto, Ontario - July 13, 1913


REMARKS: Royal Humane Society Medal ( Silver )


On the 7th November 1900 during the action at Kumati River, South Africa, Lieutenant Cockburn with a

handful of men , at a most critical moment, held off the enemy to enable the guns to get away. To do so he

had to sacrifice himself and his party, all of whom were killed, wounded, or taken prisoner. He himself

weas slightly wounded.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Cockburn2.jpg

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Robert Grierson COMBE

RANK: Lieutenant

DECORATIONS:


BORN: Aberdeen, Scotland - August 5, 1880

ACTION: South of Acheville, France - May 3, 1917

DIED: Acheville, France - May 3, 1917




On 3rd May 1917 South of Acheville, France, Lieutenant Combe steadied his company under intense fire

and leading them through the enemy barrage reached the objective with only five men. He proceeded to

bomb the enemy, inflicting heavy casualties and then, collecting small groups of men, succeed in

capturing the objective, together with 80 prisoners. He repeatedly charged the enemy, driving them

before him, but while personally leading his bombers he was killed by a sniper.

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Frederick George COPPINS


DECORATIONS:


BORN: London, England - October 25, 1889

ACTION: Hackett Woods, France - August 9, 1918

DIED: Livermore, California, USA- March 30, 1963


REMARKS:


On 9th August, 1918 at Hackett Woods, near Amiens, France, Corporal Coppins' platoon came

unexpectedly under fire of numerous machine guns. It was not possible to advance or retire and there was

no cover. Corporal Coppins, calling on four men to follow him, leapt forward in the face of intense

machine-gun fire and rushed straight for the guns. The four men with him were killed and he was

wounded, but going on alone, he killed the operator of the first gun and three of the crew and took four

prisoners. Despite his wound, he then continued with his platoon to the final objective.

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Aubrey COSENS

RANK: Sergeant

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: The Queen's Own Rifles of Canada

BORN: Latchford, Ontario -May 21, 1921

ACTION: Mooshof, Holland - February 25/26, 1945

DIED: Mooshof, Holland - February 26, 1945




On the night of 25th/26th February, 1945 at Mooshof, Holland, Sergeant Cosens assumed command of

the four survivors of his platoon whom he placed in position to give him covering fire and then, running

forward alone to a tank, took up an exposed position in front of the turret and directed its fire. When a

further counter-attack had been repulsed and, on his orders, the tank had rammed some farm buildings,

he went in alone, killing several of the defenders and taking the rest prisoners. He then dealt similarly

with the occupants of two more buildings, but soon afterwards was killed by a sniper.

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John Bernard CROAK

RANK: Private

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 13th (Royal Highlanders of Canada) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Little Bay, Newfoundland, May 18, 1892

ACTION: Amiens, France - August 8, 1918

DIED: Amiens, France - August 8, 1918




On 8th August, 1918 at Amiens, France, Private Croak, having become separated from his section,

encountered a machine-gun which he bombed and silenced, taking the gun and crew prisoners. Shortly

afterwards he was severely wounded but refusing to give in, rejoined his platoon. When several more

machine guns at a strong point were encountered, the private, seeing an opportunity, dashed forward,

followed almost immediately by the rest of the platoon in a brilliant charge. He was the first to arrive at

the trench line into which he led his men, bayoneting or capturing the entire garrison. He was again

wounded and died almost at once.

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Robert Edward CRUICKSHANK

RANK: Private (later Major)

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 2/14th (County of London) Battalion, The London Regiment (London Scottish)

BORN: Winnipeg, Manitoba - June 17, 1888

ACTION: East of Jordan River, Palestine - May 1, 1918

DIED: Blaby, Leicestershire, United Kingdom – September 1, 1961


REMARKS:


On 1st May 1918 east of Jordan, Palestine, Private Cruikshank volunteered to take a message to

company headquarters from his platoon which was in the bottom of a Wadi, with its officer and most of

the men casualties. He rushed up the slopes but was hit, tried again and was again wounded. After his

wounds had been dressed, he tried yet again, but was so badly wounded that he could make no further

attempt. He lay all day in a dangerous position, being sniped at and wounded where he lay, but displayed

great endurance and was cheerful and uncomplaining throughout.

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David Vivian CURRIE

RANK: Major (later Lieutenant Colonel)

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: The South Alberta Regiment

BORN: Sutherland, Saskatchewan - July 8. 1912

ACTION: Battle of Falaise, France - August 18 – 20, 1944

DIED: Owen Sound, Ontario. - June 20, 1986


REMARKS: He was the vice chairman of the VC and GC Association from 1968-86 (Overseas) he also

served as Sergeant at Arms of the House of Commons in Ottawa until 1979.


During the period 18th/20th August, 1944 at the Battle of Falaise, Normandy, Major Currie was in

command of a small mixed force of tanks, self-propelled anti-tank guns and infantry which had been

ordered to cut one of the main escape routes. Having attacked the village of St. Lambert-sur-Dives and

consolidated a position halfway inside it, for 36 hours he repulsed repeated enemy attacks. Despite heavy

casualties Major Currie never considered the possibility of failure and in the final assault seven enemy

tanks 12, 88 mm guns and 40 vehicles were destroyed, 300 Germans were killed, 500 wounded and 1,100

captured. The remnants of two German armies were thus denied this escape route

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The Hon. Raymond Harvey Lodge Joseph De MONTMORENCY

RANK: Lieutenant (later Captain)

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 21st Lancers ( Empress of India's )

BORN: Montreal, Quebec - February 5, 1867

ACTION: Battle of Omdurman, Sudan -September 2, 1898

DIED: Dordrecht, Cape Colony, South Africa, - February 23, 1900.


REMARKS: He was killed in action during the Boer War


On 2nd September, 1898 at the Battle of Khartoum, Sudan top after the charge, Lieutenant De

Montmorency returned to help a second Lieutenant who was lying surrounded by a great many

Dervishes. The Lieutenant drove the Dervishes off and, finding that the officer was dead, put the body on

his horse which then broke away. Another Lieutenant and a corporal then came to his assistance and he

was able to rejoin the Regiment which are begun to open fire on the enemy.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:VCRaymondHarveyLodgeJoseph(TheHon.)DeMontmorency.jpg

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:21stLancersbadge.png

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Edmund De WIND

RANK: Second Lieutenant

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 15th Battalion, The Royal Irish Rifles

BORN: Comber, County Down, Ireland - December 11, 1883

ACTION: Racecourse Redoubt, near Groagie, France - March 21, 1918

DIED: near Groagie, France - March 21, 1918




On 21st March, 1918, at the Racecourse Redoubt, near Groagie, France, for seven-hour Second

Lieutenant De Wind held this important post and though twice wounded and practically single-handed, he

maintained his position until another section could be sent to his help. On two occasions, with two NCOs

only, he got out on top under heavy machine-gun and rifle fire and cleared the enemy out of the trench,

killing many of them. He continued to repel attack after attack until he was mortally wounded and

collapsed.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:VCEdmundDeWind.jpg

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Thomas Fasti DINESEN

RANK: Private (later Lieutenant)

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 42nd (Royal Highlanders of Canada) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Rungsted, Denmark - August 9, 1892

ACTION: Parvillers, France - August 12, 1918

DIED: Hørsholm, Frederiksborg, Denmark - March 10, 1970

FOREIGN DECORATIONS: Croix de Guerre ( France ), Knight, Order of Dannebrog (Denmark)

REMARKS:


On 12th August 1918 at Parvilles, France, Private Dinesen displayed conspicuous bravery during 10

hours of hand-to-hand fighting which resulted in the capture of over a mile of strongly defended enemy

trenches. Five times in succession he rushed forward alone and put hostile guns out of action, accounting

for 12 of the enemy. With bomb and bayonet. He sustained valour inspired his comrades at a very critical

stage of the action.

30

Campbell Mellis DOUGLAS

RANK: Assistant Surgeon (later Lieutenant Colonel)

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 2nd Battalion, 24th Regiment of Foot

BORN: Quebec City - August 5, 1840

ACTION: island of Little Andaman, eastern India, in the Bay of Bengal - May 7, 1867

DIED: Hollington (near Wells), Somerset, United Kingdom - December 31, 1909


REMARKS: Lieutenant Colonel Douglas' Victoria Cross was unusual in the fact that it was awarded for

saving life its sea in a storm off the Andaman Islands, and not for bravery in battle. He also holds the

Bronze Medal of the Royal Humane Society.


On 7th May, 1867 at the Island of Little Andaman, Bay of Bengal, Assistant Surgeon Douglas and four

privates of the 2nd/24th Regiment risked their lives in manning a boat and proceeding through dangerous

surf to rescue some of their comrades who had been sent to the island to find out the fate of the

Commander and seven of the crew, who were landed from the ship Assam Valley and were feared

murdered by the cannibalistic islanders.


31

Alexander Roberts DUNN

RANK: Lieutenant (later Colonel)

DECORATIONS: KStJ

UNIT: 11th Hussars (Prince Albert's Own)

BORN: York (later Toronto) -September 15, 1833

ACTION: Battle of Balaclava on October 25, 1854

DIED: Eritrea, Africa – January 25, 1868


REMARKS: killed in unusual circumstances during in a hunting accident at Senafe and first Canadian

awarded the Victoria Cross


On 20th October 1854 Balaclava, Crimea,(The Light Cavalry during the Charge of the Light Brigade),

Lieutenant Dunn saved the life of a sergeant of his regiment, by cutting down two or three Russian

Lancers who were attacking from the rear. He later killed a Russian Hussar who was attacking a private


http://www.britishempire.co.uk/forces/armyunits/britishcavalry/11thhussarsbadge.htm

32

Frederick FISHER

RANK: Lance Corporal

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 13th (Royal Highlanders of Canada) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: St. Catherine's, Ontario - August 3, 1894

ACTION: St. Julien, Belgium - April 23, 1915

DIED: St. Julien, Belgium - April 23, 1915


REMARKS: He was the first Canadian-born man to win VC while serving in the Canadian Army. Killed

in action the next day.


On 23rd April, 1915 in the neighbourhood of St Julien, Belgium, Lance-Corporal Fisher went forward

with the machine gun of which he was in charge, under heavy fire, and covered the retreat of a battery,

losing four of his gun team. Later, when he had obtained four more men, he went forward again to the

firing line and was killed while bringing his machine-gun into action under very heavy fire.

33

Gordon Muriel FLOWERDEW

RANK: Lieutenant

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians)

BORN: Billingford, Norfolk – January 2, 1885

ACTION: Bois de Moreuil, France - March 30, 1918

DIED: Bois de Moreuil, France - March 31, 1918


REMARKS:


On 30th March 1918 north-east of Bois De Moreuil, France, Lieutenant Flowerdew commanding a

squadron detail for special services, reached the first objective and saw two lines of the enemy, each

about 60 strong, armed with machine-guns. He ordered one Troop to dismount and engage the enemy

while he led the remaining three troops to the charge, passing over the lines, killing many of the enemy

then wheeling about and galloping at them again. Although the squadron had about 70 per cent

casualties, including Lieutenant Flowerdew who was dangerously wounded, the enemy broke and fled,

and the position was captured.

34

John Weir FOOTE

RANK: Honorary Captain (later Honorary Lieutenant Colonel)

DECORATIONS: CD

UNIT: Canadian Corps of Chaplains attd The Royal Hamilton Light Infantry (Wentworth Regiment)

BORN: Madoc, Ontario - May 5, 1904

ACTION: Dieppe, France – August 19, 1942

DIED: Cobourg, Ontario - May 2, 1988


REMARKS: Lieutenant Colonel Foote was from 1958-57 the Minister of Reform Institutions Ontario


On 19th August, 1942 at Dieppe, France, Captain Foote coolly and calmly during the eight hours of the

battle walked about collecting the wounded, saving many lives by his gallant efforts and inspiring those

around him by his example. At the end of the gruelling time he climbed from the landing craft that was to

have taken him to safety and deliberately walked into the German position in order to be taken prisoner

so that he could be a help to those men who would be in captivity until the end of the war.

35

Benjamin Handley GEARY

RANK: Second Lieutenant (later Major)

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 4th Battalion, The East Surrey Regiment

BORN: Marylebone, London, England – June 29, 1891

ACTION: Hill 60 near Ypres, Belgium - April 20/21, 1915

DIED: Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario – May 26, 1976


REMARKS: Ordained into Holy Orders after the war, he was at one time Chaplain to the Forces, but

resigned to go to Canada where he became Sergeant-at-Arms in the Canadian Legislature. In 1939 he

joined the Canadian Army as a Major. He died on 28th May 1976, at Niagara-on-Lake.


On 20th and 21st April 1915 on Hill 60 near Ypres, Belgium, Second Lieutenant Geary led his men

across exposed open ground swept by fierce enemy fire to join survivors of the Bedfordshire Regiment in

a crater at the top of the hill, which she held against artillery and bomb attacks during the evening and

night. Each attack was repulsed mainly owing to the fine example and personal gallantry of Second

Lieutenant Geary. He deliberately exposed himself to enemy fire in order to see by the light of flares the

whereabouts of the enemy. He was severely wounded early on 21st April.

36

Herman James GOOD

RANK: Corporal.

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 13th Battalion, Quebec Regiment (Royal Highlanders of Canada). Canadian Expeditionary Force

ACTION: Hangard Wood, France – August 8, 1918

BORN: South Bathurst, New Brunswick, November, 29, 1887

DIED: Bathurst. New Brunswick, - 18th April 18, 1969


On 8th August, 1918 at Hangard Wood, France, when his company was held up by heavy fire from three

machine guns, Corporal Good dashed forward alone, killing several of the garrison and capturing the

remainder. Later on, the corporal, while alone, encountered a battery of 5.9 inch guns which were in

action at the time. Collecting three men of his section he charged the battery under point-blank fire and

captured the entire crew of three guns.

37

Robert Hampton GRAY

RANK: Lieutenant (N)

DECORATIONS: DSC

UNIT: 1841 Squadron, Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve

BORN: Trail, British Columbia - November 2, 1917

ACTION: Honshū, Japan - August 9, 1945

DIED: Honshū, Japan - August 9, 1945


REMARKS: Killed in this action Awarded a mentioned in dispatches in World War Two


On 9th August 1945 at Onagawa Wan, Japan, Lieutenant Gray led an attack on a Japanese destroyer. In

the face of fire from shore batteries and heavy concentration of fire from some five warships, he pressed

home his attack, flying very low in order to ensure success. Although he was wounded and his aircraft in

flames he obtained at least one direct hit, sinking the destroyer. His aircraft crashed into the bay.

38

Milton Fowler GREGG

RANK: Lieutenant (later Brigadier)

DECORATIONS: OC, CBE, MC, VD, ED, CD

UNIT: The Royal Canadian Regiment.

BORN: Mountain Dale, Kings County, New Brunswick -April 10, 1892

ACTION: Cambrai, France - September 27 to October 1, 1918

DIED: Fredericton, New Brunswick 13 Mar 1978


REMARKS: Entering politics, from 1947-48 he was the Canadian Minister of Fisheries, following this

then in 1948-50 he became Minister of Veterans Affairs. He was Minister of Labour from 1950-57 and in

1958-59 he was in Iraq with the United Nations Technical Assistance Team. He represented United

Nations Children's Fund in Indonesia from 1960-63. He was the Canadian Commissioner to Guyana

1964-67


During the period 27th September to 1st October 1918 near Canbrai, France, Lieutenant Gregg showed

most conspicuous bravery and initiative. Although wounded twice, he led his men against enemy trenches

in which he personally killed or wounded 11 Germans, took 25 prisoners and captured 12 machine guns.

In spite of his wounds he stayed with his company and a few days later again led his men in attack until

severely wounded for the third time.

39

Frederick William HALL

RANK: Company Sergeant-Major

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 8th (Winnipeg Rifles) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Kilkenny, County Kilkenny, Ireland - February 21, 1885

ACTION: Ypres, Belgium - April 24, 1915

DIED: Gravenstafel, Belgium - April 25, 1915


REMARKS: Died of wounds from this action. C S M Frederick William Hall was one of three Victoria

Cross winners who all came from the same street, Pine Street, Winnipeg, Canada which was renamed

Valour Road in their honour. The other two men were Corporal Leo Clarke and Lieutenant Robert

Shankland


On 24th April 1915, near Ypres, Belgium, when a wounded man, who was lying some 15 yards from the

trench, called for help, Company Sergeant-Major Hall endeavoured to reach him in the face of very

heavy enfilade fire by the enemy. He then made a second most gallant attempt, and was in the act of

lifting up the wounded man to bring him in when he fell mortally wounded in the head.

40

William HALL

RANK: Able Seaman (later Petty Officer)

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: HMS Shannon, Royal Naval Brigade

BORN: Horton's Bluff, Nova Scotia - April 28, 1827

ACTION: Lucknow, India - November 16, 1857

DIED: Hantsport, Nova Scotia - August 25, 1904


REMARKS: Petty Officer Hall was the first coloured man to win the Victoria Cross


On 16th November, 1857 at Lucknow, India, naval guns were brought up close to the Shah Nujeff

Mosque, and the gun crews kept up a steady fire in an attempt to breach the walls, while a hail of musket

balls and grenades from the mutineers inside the mosque caused heavy casualties. Able Seaman Hall and

the Lieutenant in command of the gun crews were , after a time, the only survivors, all the rest having

been killed or wounded, and between them they loaded and served the last gun.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Williamhall1.jpg

41

Robert Hill HANNA

RANK: Company Sergeant-Major (later Lieutenant)

DECORATIONS:


BORN: Kilkeel, County Down, Ireland - August 6, 1887

ACTION: Lens, France - August 21, 1917,

DIED: Mount Lehman British Columbia - June 15, 1967


REMARKS:


On 21st September, 1917, at Lens, France, Company Sergeant-Major Hanna's company met with most

severe enemy resistance at a heavily protected strong point, which had beaten off three assaults and all

the officers of the company had become casualties. This warrant officer, under heavy machine-gun and

rifle fire, coolly collected and led a party against the strong point, rushed through the wire and

personally killed four of the enemy, capturing the position and silencing the machine-gun. This

courageous action was responsible for the capture of a most important tactical point.

42

Frederick Maurice Watson HARVEY

RANK: lieutenant (later Brigadier)

DECORATIONS: MC, CD & 2 bars

UNIT: Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians)

BORN: Athboy, County Meath, Ireland - September 1, 1888

ACTION: Guyencourt, France - March 27, 1917

DIED: Fort Macleod, Alberta - August 24, 1980

FOREIGN DECORATIONS: Croix de Guerre with star ( France )

REMARKS:


On 27 March 1917 at Guyencourt, France, during an attack by the regiment, the leading troop,

commanded by Lieutenant Harvey, had suffered heavy casualties from rapid fire at close range. He was

riding in front of his men when he came upon a wired trench containing a machine-gun and a strong

garrison. He at once swung from his saddle and ran straight for the trench, jumped the wire, and shot the

gunner and captured the gun.

43

Frederick HOBSON

RANK: Sergeant

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 20th Battalion, 1st Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Brigg, Lincolnshire, England - September 23, 1873

ACTION: Lens, France - August 15, 1917

DIED: New Lens, France - August 15, 1917


REMARKS: Killed in this action Served in the Boer War


On 18th August, 1917 North-West of Lens, France during a strong enemy counter attack the Lewis gun in

a forward position was buried by a shell and the crew, with the exception of a one man, killed. Sergeant

Hobson, although not a Gunner, grasping the great importance of the post, rushed from his trench, dug

out the gun and got it into action. The gun then jammed and so Sergeant Hobson rushed forward at the

advancing enemy with bayonet and clubbed rifle, holding them back until he himself was killed by a rifle

shot.

44

Charles Ferguson HOEY

RANK: Major

DECORATIONS: MC

UNIT: 1st Battalion, The Lincolnshire Regiment

BORN: Duncan, Vancouver Island, British Columbia - March 29, 1914

ACTION: Ngakyedauk Pass, Arakan, Burma (now Myanmar) - February 16, 1944

DIED: Ngakyedauk Pass, Arakan, Burma (now Myanmar) - February 17, 1944


REMARKS: Died of wounds in this action


On 16th February, 1944 near the Ngakyedauk Pass, Arakan, Burma, Major Hoey's company came under

devastating machine-gun fire, but Major Hoey did not waver in his advance on the objective. Although

wounded in the head and leg he went forward alone and tackled a troublesome enemy strong point,

destroying it and killing all the occupants, but he was mortally wounded.

45

Edward James Gibson HOLLAND

RANK: Sergeant (later Major)

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: The Royal Canadian Dragoons

BORN: Ottawa, Ontario - February 2, 1878

ACTION: Komati River, South Africa - November 7, 1900

DIED: Cobalt, Ontario - June 18, 1948


REMARKS: Served in World War I

Digest of Citation reads:.

On 7th November 1900 in South Africa, Sergeant Holland kept the Boers away from two 12 pounder guns

with his Colt gun. When he saw that the enemy were too near for him to escape with the carriage, as the

horse was blown, he calmly lifted the gun off and galloped away with it under his arm.

46

Thomas William HOLMES

RANK: Private (later Sergeant)

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 4th Canadian Mounted Rifles, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Montreal, Quebec - October 4, 1898

ACTION: Passchendaele, Belgium - October 26, 1917

DIED: Toronto, Ontario - January 4, 1950


REMARKS:


On 26th October, 1917 near Passchenaele, Belgium, when the right flank of our attack was held up by

heavy machine-gun fire from a pill-box strong point and heavy casualties were producing a critical

situation, Private Holmes, on his own initiative and single-handed, ran forward and threw two bombs,

killing and wounding the crews of two machine-guns. He then fetched another bomb and threw this into

the entrance of the pill-box, causing the 19 occupants to surrender.

47

Samuel Lewis HONEY

RANK: Lieutenant

DECORATIONS: DCM, MM.


BORN: Conn, Ontario - February 9, 1894

ACTION: Bourlon Wood, France - September 27/30, 1918

DIED: Bourlon Wood, France - September 30, 1918


REMARKS: killed in this action


On 27th September, 1918 at Bourlon Wood, France, when his company Commander and all the other

officers of his company became casualties, Lieutenant Honey took command, continuing the advance and

gaining the objective. Then, finding his company suffering casualties from enfilade machine-gun fire he

made a personal reconnaissance and locating the machine-gun nest, rushed it single-handed, capturing

the guns and 10 prisoners. Later, after repelling four enemy counter-attacks, he captured another

machine-gun post. He continued to lead his company with great initiative and daring, but died of his

wounds on the last day of the attack by his battalion.

48

David Ernest HORNELL

RANK: Flight Lieutenant

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: No. 162 Squadron Royal Canadian Air Force

BORN: Mimico, Ontario - January 26, 1910

ACTION: Faroes, North Atlantic - June 24, 1944

DIED: Faroes, North Atlantic - June 24, 1944




On 24th June, 1944 on sea patrol in the North Atlantic, Flight Lieutenant Hornell's twin engined

amphibian aircraft was attacked and badly damaged by an enemy submarine, nevertheless he succeeded

in sinking it and then with superhuman effort managed to bring his aircraft down on the heavy swell,

blazing furiously. There was only one serviceable dingy which could not hold all the crew so they took it

in turns in the water. By the time the survivors were rescued after 21 hours, Flight Lieutenant Hornell

was blinded and weak from exposure and cold. He died shortly after being picked up.

49

Bellenden Seymour HUTCHESON

RANK: Captain

DECORATIONS: MC

UNIT: Canadian Army Medical Corps, Canadian Expeditionary Force, attached to 75th (Mississauga)

Battalion, C.E.F.

BORN: Mount Carmel, Illinois, USA - December 16, 1883

ACTION: Arras, France - September 2, 1918

DIED: Cairo, Illinois - April 9, 1954


REMARKS


On 2 September 1918 in France, Captain Hutcheson went through the Queant-Drocourt Support Line

with his battalion, remaining on the field until every wounded man had been attended to. He dressed the

wounds of a seriously hurt officer under terrific machine-gun and shell fire, and with the help of

prisoners and his own men succeeded in evacuating the officer to safety. Immediately afterwards he

rushed forward in full view of the enemy to attend a wounded sergeant and having placed him in a shell

hole, dressed his wounds

50

Joseph KAEBLE

RANK: Corporal

DECORATIONS: MM

UNIT: 22e Battalion (Canadien Francais), Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Saint-Moïse Québec - May 5, 1893

ACTION: Neuville-Vitasse, France - June 8, 1918

DIED: Neuville-Vitasse, France - June 9, 1918


REMARKS Died of wounds from this action


On 8th/9th June 1918 at Neuville-Vitesse, France, Corporal Kaeble was in charge of a Lewis gun section

during a strong enemy attack, when all of his section but one became casualties. As soon as the barrage

lifted and about 50 of the enemy advanced, Corporal Kaeble jumped over the parapet with his Lewis gun,

emptying several magazines into the advancing enemy. Although hit several times, he continued to fire

blocking the enemy advance, until he fell mortally wounded. Even while lying on his back in the trench,

he fired his last cartridge over the parapet at the retreating enemy.

51

George Fraser KERR


DECORATIONS: MC & Bar, MM.

UNIT: 3rd (Toronto) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Deseronto, Ontario – June 8, 1894

ACTION: Bourlon Wood, France – September 27, 1918

DIED: Toronto, Ontario – December 8, 1929


REMARKS


On 27th September 1918 at Bourlon Wood, France, Lieutenant Kerr acted with conspicuous bravery and

leadership during operations, giving timely support by outflanking a machine-gun which was impeding

the advance. Later, when the advance was held up again by a strong point and being well in advance of

his company, he rushed the enemy strong point single-handed and captured four machine-guns and 31

prisoners.

52

John Chipman KERR


DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 49th (Edmonton) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Fox River, Nova Scotia - January 11, 1887

ACTION: Courcelette, France - September 16, 1916

DIED: Port Moody, British Columbia - February 19, 1963


REMARKS served in world war two


During a bombing attack on the 16th September 1916 at Courcelette, France, Private Kerr, acting as a

bayonet man, noticed that they were running short of bombs. He ran along the parados under heavy fire

until he was close to the enemy. He opened fire at point blank range inflicting heavy losses. Assuming

that they were surrounded, 62 of the enemy surrendered as well as 250 yards of the enemy trench being

captured. Earlier in the action, Private Kerr's fingers had been blown off, but didn't stop to have his

wounds dressed until he and two others had escorted the prisoners back, still under heavy fire, before

reporting for duty.

53

Cecil John KINROSS

RANK: Private

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 49th (Edmonton) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Hillend, Clackmannanshire, Scotland - July 13, 1897

ACTION: Passchendaele, Belgium – October 28 - November 1, 1917

DIED: Lougheed, Alberta - June 21, 1957


REMARKS


On third in October 1917 at Passchendaele, Belgian, shortly after an attack was launched, Private

Kinross' company came under very heavy fire, any chance of further advance being held up by an enemy

machine-gun. Private Kinross carefully surveying the situation, removed all of his equipment except for

his rifle and bandolier and then advanced alone over open ground in broad daylight. He charged the

machine-gun killing the crew of six, seizing and destroying the gun. His superb example and courage

allowed an extremely important position to be established

54

Arthur George KNIGHT

RANK: Sergeant

DECORATIONS:


BORN: Lewes, Sussex, England - June 26, 1886

ACTION: Villers-les-Cagnicourt, France - September 2, 1918

DIED: Villers-les-Cagnicourt, France - September 3, 1918

FOREIGN DECORATIONS: Croix de Guerre ( Belgium )

REMARKS Died of his wounds


On 2nd September, 1918 at Villers-les-Cagnicourt, France, after an unsuccessful attack, the bombing

section which she was leading was held up by the enemy. Sergeant Knight went forward alone, bayoneted

several machine-gunners and trench mortar crews which caused the remainder to retire. He brought

forward a Lewis gun and directed the fire on the retreating enemy. Whilst his platoon went off in pursuit,

he saw about 30 of the enemy going into a tunnel leading off the trench. Again, alone, he went forward,

killing one officer and two NCOs and taking 20 twenty. Following this, yet again single-handed, he

routed another hostile party. On each occasion he displayed the greatest Valour under extreme

conditions of fire. His example of courage of the gallantry and initiative was an inspiration to all. A short

while later he was fatally wounded.

55

Filip KONOWAL


DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 47th (British Columbia) Battalion , Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Kutkivtsi, Ukraine - September 15, 1888

ACTION: Lens, France - August 22–24, 1917

DIED: Hull, Quebec - June 3, 1959

FOREIGN DECORATIONS: Cross, Order of St George ( Russia )

REMARKS


In the period 22nd to 24th August 1917 at Lens, France, Corporal Konowal was in command of a section

that had the difficult task of mopping up cellars, craters and machine-gun emplacements. Under his

competent direction any resistance was overcome successfully and heavy casualties were inflicted on the

enemy. In one cellar, he personally bayoneted three enemy and single-handed attacked seven others in a

crater, killing them all. On reaching the objective, a machine gun was holding up the right flank causing

heavy casualties. He rushed forward and entered the emplacement, killing all the crew, then bringing

back the gun to our lines. The following day, single-handed, he again attacked a machine gun post, killed

three of the crew, destroying the gun and emplacement with explosives. He killed at least 16 of the enemy

and during the two days of fighting managed to keep up the excellent work until he was wounded.

56

Okill Massey LEARMONTH

RANK: Major

DECORATIONS: MC

UNIT: 2nd (Eastern Ontario) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Quebec, City - February 20, 1894

ACTION: Near Loos, France - August 18, 1917

DIED: Loos, France - August 19, 1917


REMARKS Died of wounds next day


East of Loos, on 18th August 1917, during a determined counter-attack on our new position, this officer,

Acting Major Learmonth MC, when his company was momentarily surprised, personally charged and

disposed of the attackers. Later carrying on a tremendous fight against the advancing enemy. Under

intense barrage and although mortally wounded, he continuously bombed the enemy, by standing on the

parapet of the trench, and directing operations and by his actions inspiring his men with a spirit of utmost

resistance. Several times he caught the enemy bombs and threw them back. When he was eventually

unable to continue, because of his wounds, he refused to be carried out of the line. He continued to give

instructions and invaluable advice to his junior officers. He was finally taken to a hospital where he died

of his wounds the following day.

57

Graham Thomson LYALL

RANK: Lieutenant (later Colonel)

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 102nd (North British Columbians) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Manchester, England - March 8, 1892

ACTION: Cambrai, France - September 27-October 1, 1918

DIED: Mersa Matruh, Egypt – November 28, 1941


REMARKS Died on active service in Egypt in World War Two, with the British Army Awarded a

mentioned in dispatches in World War One


On 27th September, 1918, north of Canbrai, France, Lieutenant Lyall led his platoon in the capture of an

enemy strong point, including 13 prisoners, a field gun and four machine-guns. Later he led his men once

more against another strong point, rushing forward alone and capturing the position single-handed, on

this occasion taking 45 prisoners and five machine guns. Another 47 prisoners were captured in his final

objective along with another five machine guns. Near Blecourt, France, on the 1st October 1918 the

capture of a strongly defended position yielded 60 prisoners and 17 machine-guns. During all of these

operations, once the objective had been attained, Lieutenant Lyle, still under heavy fire, tended to the

wounded

58

Thain Wendell MacDOWELL

RANK: Captain (later Lieutenant Colonel)

DECORATIONS: DSO

UNIT: 38th (Ottawa) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Lachute, Quebec, - September 16, 1890

ACTION: Vimy Ridge, France - April 9, 1917

DIED: Nassau, Bahamas - March 27, 1960


REMARKS Awarded a mentioned in dispatches in World War One


At Vimy Ridge, France on 9th April 1917, Captain MacDowell, aided by two runners, was able to capture

two machine guns, under extreme difficulty, and also capturing two officers and 23 men. He continued to

hold the new position for five days, even though wounded in the hand, and in spite of heavy shellfire, until

the battalion ultimately came to their relief.

59

John MacGREGOR


DECORATIONS: MC & Bar DCM ED

UNIT: 2nd Canadian Mounted Rifles, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Cawdor, Nairn, Scotland - February 1, 1889

ACTION: Cambrai, France - September 29/October 3, 1918

DIED: Powell River, British Columbia - June 9, 1952


REMARKS also served in world war two


Between 29th September and the 3rd October 1918 near Cambrai in France, Captain MacGregor led his

company under continuous heavy fire. Although he was wounded, he located and terminated the action of

the enemy machine-guns which were preventing Allied progress. He killed four men and took eight

prisoners. He reorganised his company and continued the advance under heavy fire and against stubborn

resistance. Later, after personally making a daylight reconnaissance under extremely heavy fire, he

consolidated his company in Neuville St. Remy thus assisting the advance forward and into Tilloy.

60

John Keefer MAHONY

RANK: Major (later Lieutenant Colonel)

DECORATIONS: CD.

UNIT: The Westminster Regiment

BORN: New Westminster, British Columbia - June 30, 1911

ACTION: River Melfa, Italy - May 24, 1944

DIED: London, Ontario - December 15, 1990


REMARKS


On 24th May 1944, Major MAHONEY and his company were ordered to establish the initial bridgehead

over the River Melfa, Italy. After this was accomplished, the company, in the face of very heavy enemy

fire and attacks, held the position for five hours until they were reinforced by the remaining companies

and supporting weapons. Major Mahoney had continued to direct the defence of the bridgehead even

though he had been wounded, in the head and twice in the leg, earlier in the action. He refused all

medical attention until the situation was established. He became a target of the enemy when they noted

that he was the keystone to the defence.

61

Robert Gordon McBEATH

RANK: Lance Corporal

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 1/5th Battalion, The Seaforth Highlanders (Ross-shire Buffs, Duke of Albany's)

BORN: Kinlochbervie, Sutherland, Scotland - December 22, 1898

ACTION: Cambrai, France - November 20, 1917

DIED: Vancouver, British Columbia - October 9, 1922


REMARKS: McBeath was murdered in the line of duty while working as a police officer in Vancouver,

British Columbia

Digest of Citation reads.

To the west of Canbrai, France, on 20th November 1917, the advance was checked by a nest of machine

guns resulting in heavy casualties. Lance-Corporal McBeath moved off alone, after volunteering to deal

with this situation,: armed with a Lewis gun and a revolver. Discovering that several other machine guns

were also in action, with the assistance of a tank he attacked them driving the Gunners to ground in a

deep dug- out. Lance-Corporal McBeath rushed in after them shooting the first man he saw. He then

forced the remainder out, capturing three officers and 30 men.


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Seaforth.gif

62

George Burdon McKEAN


DECORATIONS: MC, MM.

UNIT: 14th (The Royal Montreal Regiment) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Willington, County Durham, England - July 4, 1888

ACTION: Gavrelle Sector, France - April 27/28, 1918

DIED: Potters Bar, England - November 28, 1926


REMARKS


Lieutenant Mckean's party, operating on the right flank, was held up by grenades and intense machine-

gun fire from a Block in the communication trench. The block was well protected by barbed wire and a

machine-gun, 30 yards to the rear. The Block should have been destroyed by a previous bombardment,

but had been too close to our lines to have been engaged. Realising that the block must be destroyed if the

operation was to be successful, Lieutenant McKean ran to the right flank of the Block, disregarding all

danger, jumped over the Block, head first, right on top of the enemy. Whilst lying on top of one of the

enemy, he was attacked by another, using a bayonet. Lieutenant McKean, shot his attacker, then shot the

man lying beneath him who was struggling fiercely. He ran out of bombs and he sent back to the line for

a new supply, during which time, he single-handedly engaged the enemy. With the fresh bombs, he

attacked the second Block, killing two, capturing four and driving the remainder of the garrison, which

included a machine gun, into a dug out. The dug-out, its occupants and the guns were destroyed. If this

position hadn't been captured, the raiding party would have been exposed to a dangerous enfilade fire,

thus due to his action, many lives had been saved.

63

Hugh McDonald McKENZIE

RANK: Lieutenant

DECORATIONS: DCM.

UNIT: 7th Company, Canadian Machine Gun Corps, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Liverpool, Lancashire, UK - December 5, 1885

ACTION: Meetscheele Spur, Belgium - October 30, 1917

DIED: Passchendaele, Belgium - October 30, 1917

FOREIGN DECORATIONS: Croix de Guerre with palm ( France )

REMARKS Killed in this action


At Meetscheele, near Passchendaele, Belgium, Lieutenant McKenzie when in charge of four machine

guns accompanying the Infantry in an attack, seeing that all the officers and most of the NCOs had

become casualties and the men were hesitating before a nest of enemy machine guns which were

inflicting severe casualties, from their position on commanding ground. Handing over his command to an

NCO, he rallied the Infantry into attack, capturing the strong point. Discovering that the position, a pill-

box, was sweeping the ground by machine-gun fire, and dominating everything before it, Lieutenant

McKenzie reconnoitred and detailed a frontal and flanking attack and captured the pillbox. Whilst

leading the frontal attack he was killed.

64

Alan Arnett McLEOD

RANK: Second Lieutenant

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: No. 2 Squadron, Royal Flying Corps

BORN: Stonewall, Winnipeg, Manitoba - April 20, 1899

ACTION: Albert, France - March 27, 1918

DIED: Winnipeg, Manitoba - November 6, 1918


REMARKS died of the Spanish Influenza pandemic


Whilst flying an FK8 over Albert, France, on the 27th March, 1918, along with his observer, Second

Lieutenant McLeod attacked and destroyed an enemy triplane and was immediately engaged by eight

more, two of which were taken on and destroyed. The petrol tank of their aircaft was hit and burst into

flames severely wounding both pilot and observer. Second Lieutenant Macleod side-slipped the aircraft

steeply, trying extremely hard to keep the flames away from his observer. The plane eventually crashed in

No-Man's-Land and, without considering his own injuries, he rescued his observer from the wreckage. He

then carried him, under heavy fire from the enemy, to a reasonable place safety: where he collapsed from

exhaustion.

65

William MERRIFIELD

RANK: Sergeant

DECORATIONS: MM

UNIT: 4th (Central Ontario) Battalion of the Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Brentwood, Essex – October 9, 1890

ACTION: Abancourt, France - October 1, 1918

DIED: Tronto, Ontario – August 8, 1943


REMARKS


Sergeant Merrifield, single-handedly attack two enemy machine gun emplacements on the 1st October

1918 at Abancourt, France, which were preventing his platoon's advance. Quickly making his way from

one shell-hole to another he killed the crew of the first post, getting wounded in the process. In spite of his

wounds he went on to attack the second machine-gun, killing the crew with a bomb. Until he was severely

wounded, he continued to lead his platoon refusing to be evacuated.

66

Charles Cecil Ingersoll MERRITT


DECORATIONS: ED

UNIT: The South Saskatchewan Regiment

BORN: Vancouver, British Columbia - November 10, 1908

ACTION: Dieppe raid - August 19, 1942

DIED: Vancouver, British Columbia - July 12, 2000


REMARKS POW and later MP Awarded a mentioned in dispatches in World War two


On 19th August 1942 at Dieppe, France, Lieutenant Colonel Merritt's unit had to advance across a

bridge swept by heavy machine-gun, mortar and artillery fire. The first parties had mostly been destroyed

but the Colonel rushed forward and personally led the survivors of at least four parties, in turn, across

the bridge, then led them in successful attacks on German pill-boxes. Although twice wounded he

continued to direct the unit's operations and having collected bren and tommy guns, prepared a defensive

position to cover the withdrawal from the beach

67

William Henry METCALF

RANK: Lance Corporal (later Corporal)

DECORATIONS: MM & Bar

UNIT: 16th (Canadian Scottish) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Waite, Maine, USA - January 29, 1894

ACTION: Arras, France - September 2, 1918

DIED: Eastport, Maine, USA - August 8, 1968


REMARKS


On 2 September 1918 at Arras, France, when the right flank of the battalion was held up, Lance-

Corporal Metcalf rushed forward under intense machine-gun fire to a passing tank and with his signal

flag walked in front of the tank directing it along the trench in a perfect hail of bullets and bombs. The

machine-gun strong-point was overcome, very heavy casualties were inflicted and a critical situation was

relieved. Later, although wounded, Corporal Metcalf continued to advance until ordered to get into a

shell hole and have his wounds dressed.

68

William Johnstone MILNE

RANK: Private

DECORATIONS:


BORN: Cambusnethan, Lanarkshire, Scotland - December 21, 1891

ACTION: Thelus, France - April 9, 1917

DIED: Thelus, France - April 9, 1917




Whilst in the process of an attack on Vimy Ridge, France, on reaching the first objective Private Milne

spotted an enemy machine-gun firing on the advancing troops. He reached the gun by crawling on his

hands and knees, bombing the crew and killing them, capturing the gun. On the reformation of the line he

located another machine-gun. Again on hands and knees he stalked the second gun, putting the enemy

crew out of action and capturing the gun.

69

Harry Garnet Bedford MINER

RANK: Corporal

DECORATIONS:


BORN: Cedar Springs, Ontario, - June 24, 1891

ACTION: Demuin, France - August 8, 1918

DIED: Demuin, France - August 8, 1918




During an attack on 8th August 1918 at Demuin, France, Corporal Miner, single-handed, rushed an

enemy machine-gun post, killed all of the crew and then turned the gun on to the enemy. Along with two

others, later on, he attacked another machine-gun post successfully putting the gun out of action. He then

rushed, again single-handed, an enemy bombing post. Here he bayoneted two of the garrison and put the

rest of the team to flight. In the performance of this act he was mortally wounded.

70

Coulson Norman MITCHELL


DECORATIONS: MC

UNIT: 1st Tunnelling Company, 4th Canadian Engineers, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Winnipeg, Manitoba - Dec. 11, 1889

ACTION: Canal de L'Escaut, France - October 8/9, 1918

DIED: Mount Royal, Quebec -November 17, 1978

FOREIGN DECORATIONS: Awarded a mentioned in dispatches in World War One

REMARKS


On the night of 8th/9th October 1918, Captain Mitchell led a party to examine bridges over the Canal de

L'Escaut, north-east of Canbrai, France, ahead of the advancing infantry. The main bridge had been

heavily charged. The object was to stop the bridges from being demolished on the line of approach. When

he reached the canal he found the bridge already blown . Captain Mitchell managed to cut several of the

lead wires on one of the following bridges, which was by then, in total darkness. He then dashed across

the main bridge, not knowing the strength or position of the enemy. Whilst he and his NCO were cutting

the wires, the enemy decided to attack the bridge. He went to the assistance of one of the sentries, who

had been wounded. He captured 12 of the enemy after killing three others. He managed to maintain the

bridgehead until reinforcements arrived. Still under heavy fire, he continued with his task of neutralising

the charges, knowing full well that the bridges could have been fired at any moment.

71

George Harry MULLIN

RANK: Sergeant (later Major)

DECORATIONS: MM

UNIT: Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, (Eastern Ontario Regiment), Canadian Expeditionary

Force

BORN: Portland, Oregon, USA - August 15, 1892


DIED: Regina, Saskatchewan - April 5, 1963


REMARKS served in world war two, Awarded a mentioned in dispatches in World War One


On 30 Ocober 1917 at Passchendaele, Belgium, Sergeant Mullin single-handed captured a pill-box which

had withstood heavy bombardment and was causing heavy casualties and holding up the attack. He

rushed the sniper's post in front, destroyed the garrison with bombs, shot two gunners and then compelled

the remaining 10 men to surrender. All the time rapid fire was directed on him and his clothes were

riddled with bullets, but he never faltered in his purpose and he not only helped to save the situation but

indirectly saved many lives.

72

Andrew Charles (Andy) MYNARSKI

RANK: Pilot Officer

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 419 "Moose" Squadron, Royal Canadian Air Force

BORN: Winnipeg, Manitoba - 14 October 1916

ACTION: Cambrai, France - June 12, 1944

DIED: Cambrai, France - June 13, 1944


REMARKS Died of wounds from this action. At the time of the raid, he was unaware that he'd been

promoted to Pilot Officer with effect from 11th June 1944


Pilot Officer Mynarski was the mid- upper gummer of a Lancaster that had been attacked by enemy

fighters causing a fire in the aircraft. The captain gave orders for the crew to bale out and as Pilot

Officer made his way to the escape hatch, he spotted the rear-gunner who was trapped in his turret. He

made his way through the flames to the gunners aid, but despite his efforts to save him, he couldn't

release him. He was eventually persuaded that nothing more could be done to help the gunner and by this

time his own clothing was on fire. He made his way once more to the escape hatch and baled out. He was

so badly burned, when he was found by the French, that he died of his injuries the following day.

73

William Henry Snyder NICKERSON

RANK: Lieutenant (later Major General)

DECORATIONS: CB, CMG.

UNIT: Royal Army Medical Corps, attached to the Mounted Infantry

BORN: Dorchester, New Brunswick - March 27, 1875

ACTION: Wakkerstroom, South Africa - April 20, 1900

DIED: Cour, Kintyre, Scotland - May 20, 1954


REMARKS Hon. Surgeon to the King 1925-33, Colonel Commandant RAMC 1933-45 Home Guard

Awarded a mentioned in dispatches in World War One


At Wakkerstroom, South Africa, Lieutenant Nickerson, during the infantry advance in support of the

mountain troops, went under heavy shell and rifle fire and attended to a wounded soldier. After dressing

his wounds, he remained with him until they were able to take him to a place of safety.

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74

Claude Joseph Patrick NUNNEY

RANK: Private (later Corporal)

DECORATIONS: DCM, MM.

UNIT: 38th (Ottawa) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Dublin, Ireland - December 24, 1892

ACTION: Drocourt-Queant Line, France - September 1/2, 1918

DIED: Vis-en-Artios, France - September 18, 1918


REMARKS Died of wounds from this action


For most conspicuous bravery on the 1st and 2nd September 1918 during operations against the

Drocourt-Quéant line. When his battalion was in the vicinity of Vis-en-Artois, France, preparatory to the

advance, the Germans laid down a barrage and counter-attacked. Private Nunney, at this point in time,

was at company headquarters. On his own initiative he immediately proceeded through the barrage to the

company's outpost lines. Making his way from post to post and giving encouragement to the men by his

own fearless example the enemy were repulsed and a critical situation was saved. On the 2nd September,

during the attack, his dash placed him continually well in advance of his comrades. His example of

showing no fear was undoubtedly a great factor in helping the company on its way forwards to the

objectives. Throughout the action he showed the highest degree of Valour. He was severely wounded and

died of his wounds on 18th September 1918.

75

Timothy O'HEA

Private. 1st Battalion. Rifle Brigade (Prince Consort's Own) London Gazetted on the 1st June 1867.

Born in 1846 at Skull, Bantry, County Cork, Ireland. Disappeared in November 1876 in Sturt's Desert, Queensland, Australia. Remarks As this act by Private 0'Hea was not performed against an enemy, he could not be originally awarded the Victoria Cross under Rule 5 of the Royal Warrant. However, on August

10th, 1858 a new clause was added to the Warrant, under which Private O'Hea was able to receive the award. Because the service medal was not issued until 1899, it was awarded only if applied for and the recipient must have: a. been on active service in the field; b. served as guard at any point where an attack from the enemy was expected; or c. been detailed for some specific service or duty.

Digest of Citation reads: For conspicuous conduct, on the 19th June 1866, on the occasion of a fire on a railway car that contained 2000lbs of ammunition, between Quebec and Montreal. On the Grand trunk Railway, at Danville Station an alarm was given that a railway carriage was on fire. The sergeant, who

had been holding the keys, had them taken from his hand by Private O'Hea, who then rushed to the car, and on opening it, called for water and a ladder. Due to his fine example the fire was suppressed.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6e/Canadian_General_Service_Medal_ribbon.PNG

76

Christopher Patrick John O'KELLY

RANK: Captain (later Major)

DECORATIONS: MC

UNIT: 52nd (96th Lake Superior Regiment)Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Winnipeg, Manitoba - November 18, 1895


DIED: Lac Seul Ontario - November 15, 1922


REMARKS


At Passchendaele in Belgium, on 26th October 1917, Captain O'Kelly led his company with extraordinary

skill and determination. After the failure of the original attack and two companies, that belonged to his

unit, had launched an attack, Captain O'Kelly advanced over 1000 yards with his command under

extremely heavy fire, not being covered by an artillery barrage and took the enemy posts situated at the

crest of the hill by storm. Captain O'Kelly organised his men and led them in a series of attacks against

enemy pillboxes. His company captured six pillboxes, 100 of the enemy and 10 machine-guns. Later,

during the afternoon, Captain O'Kelly, again leading his company, repelled a fierce enemy counter

attack, during which they took more prisoners. During the night he and his company captured a hostile

raiding party consisting of one officer, 10 men and a machine-gun. The success of these actions was due

mainly to the magnificent courage, daring and capability of Captain O'Kelly.

77

Michael John O'LEARY

RANK: Lance Corporal (later Major)

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 1st Battalion, Irish Guards

BORN: Inchigeela, County Cork - September 29, 1890

ACTION: Cuinchy, France - February 1, 1915

DIED: London, England - August 1, 1961


REMARKS He had been in the Royal Navy before joining the Irish Guards. After serving seven years he

left for Canada. Here he joined the Royal Canadian North-West Mounted Police at the outbreak of the

European War (WW I) he rejoined the Irish Guards. Served in world war two Awarded a mentioned in

dispatches in World War One


When forming one of the storming parties at Cuinchy, France, on the 1st February 1915, which advanced

against the enemy barricades, Lance-Corporal O'Leary crossed to the fore and alone killed five Germans

who were holding the first barricade. He went on to attack a second barricade, 60 yards further along

and after killing three of the enemy, captured it and took two prisoners. By his action, he practically

captured the enemy positions by himself; he also prevented the rest of the attacking party from being fired

upon by the enemy.

78

Michael James O'ROURKE

RANK: Private

DECORATIONS: MM


BORN: Limerick, Ireland – March 19, 1879

ACTION: Hill 70, France - August 15/17, 1917

DIED: Vancouver, British Columbia - December 6, 1957


REMARKS


Private O'Rourke was a stretcher bearer, who during the period 15th/17th August, 1917, worked

continuously for the three days and nights bringing in the wounded to safety, dressing their wounds and

supplying them with food and drink. During the whole of this period at Hill 60, Lens, France, the area

around where he worked was continuously shelled and swept by heavy machine gun and rifle fire. He

was, on several occasions, knocked from his feet and even partially buried by enemy shells. Seeing a

blinded comrade, who was being sniped at by the enemy, stumbling around ahead of their trench, Private

O'Rourke immediately leapt out and went to his aid, bringing the man back, all the time under sniper fire.

On a later occasion he went forward once more, a distance of 50 yards ahead of our barrage: all the time

under heavy and accurate fire from enemy machine guns and snipers and brought in another wounded

comrade. Once again, when the posts were retired to consolidate, he made his way out, again under

extremely heavy fire, to bring in a wounded man who'd been left behind. He showed an absolute

disregard for his own safety whilst going to the aid of the wounded in spite of his own exhaustion and

being continuously under heavy fire from the enemy.

79

John Robert OSBORN

RANK: Company Sergeant Major

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 1st Battalion Winnipeg Grenadiers

BORN: Norfolk England - January 2, 1899

ACTION: Mount Butler, Hong Kong - December 19, 1941

DIED: Mount Butler, Hong Kong - December 19, 1941


REMARKS Killed in this action served in world war one with the royal navy


During the attack on Mount Butler, Hong Kong on the 19th December 1941 a section of the company led

by Sergeant-Major Osborn captured and held a hill until the position became untenable. He helped the

stragglers to the new company position and whilst covering their retirement he was exposed to the enemy.

Later, when the enemy were hurling grenades at them, he picked up one and threw it back at the enemy.

One grenade landed in a position where it was impossible to retrieve it and return it in time. Sergeant-

Major Osborn shouted a warning to his comrades, then threw himself to bodily cover the grenade, which

exploded. He was killed instantly.

80

John George PATTISON

RANK: Private

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 50th (Calgary) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Woolwich, London, England - September 8, 1875

ACTION: Vimy Ridge, France - April 10, 1917

DIED: Lens, France, - June 3, 1917.


REMARKS Killed in action later in the war.


When an enemy machine gun, which had been holding up the advance of our troops and inflicting severe

casualties on 10th April 1917 at Vimy Ridge, in France, Private Pattison, without regard for his own

safety, ran forward, and making his way by jumping from shell-hole to shell-hole, managed to reach

cover only 30 yards from the enemy machine-gun. From this point, under extremely heavy fire, he hurled

bombs which killed and wounded some of the gun's crew. Private Pattison then rushed forward,

overcoming and bayoneting the surviving five gunners. His action made further advance to the objective

possible.

81

The Hon George Randolph PEARKES

RANK: Major (later Major General)

DECORATIONS: CC, CB, DSO, MC, KStJ, CD & 3 Bars.


BORN: Watford, Hertfordshire, England - February 28, 1888


DIED:Victoria, British Columbia - May 30, 1984

FOREIGN DECORATIONS: Croix de Guerre with star ( France ), Commander, Legion of Merit ( USA

)REMARKS He was the General Officer Commanding the 1st Canadian Division in 1940 and in 1942-45

he was the GOC-in-C, Pacific Command, Canada. From 1957-60 he was the Minister of National

Defence (Canada), the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia from 1960-68. He was the Overseas

Vice-Chairman of the VC and GC Association of 1956-68. Awarded a mentioned in dispatches in World

War One


Major Pearkes, although wounded in the left thigh, continued to lead his men with utmost gallantry, in

spite of many obstacles. On the 30th/31st October 1917 at Passchendaele, Belgium, when at a particular

stage of the attack further advancement was threatened by a strong point, an objective of the Battalion on

his left, but they had failed in its capture. Major Pearkes, appreciating the situation, quickly captured and

held this strong point. This enabled the advance to continue successfully forward. It was mainly due to his

personality and determination that he was able to maintain his objective with the small number of men at

his command, repeatedly beating back enemy counter attacks whilst both of his flanks were unprotected.

His repeated reports to his commanding officer giving his appreciation of the situation made it possible

for them to dispose their troops to advantage and hold the position captured.

82

John PEARSON


DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 8th Hussars (The King's Royal Irish)

BORN: Leeds, Yorkshire, England - January 19, 1825

ACTION: Gwalior, India - June 17, 1858

DIED: Lion's Head, Eastnor Twp., Bruce Co., Ontario - April 18, 1892


REMARKS:


In a gallant charge made by a squadron of the Regiment at Gwalior, India on 17th June 1858, included

Private Pearson, Captain Heneage, Sergeant Joseph Ward, and Farrier George Hollis. They were

supported by the Division of the Bombay Horse Artillery and the 95th Regiment. They routed the enemy

who were advancing upon a position held by Brigadier Smith. They charged through the rebel camp into

two batteries, capturing and bringing back two of the enemy's guns, all the time under heavy converging

fire from the fort and the town.


83

Cyrus Wesley PECK


DECORATIONS: DSO, & Bar.


BORN: Hopewell Hill, New Brunswick - April 26, 1871

ACTION: Cagnicourt, France – September 2, 1918

DIED: Sidney, British Columbia - September 27, 1956


REMARKS MP, represented Skeena in the Canadian parliament Awarded a mentioned in dispatches in

World War One


For most conspicuous bravery and skill whilst leading his men, under intense enemy fire After quickly

capturing the first objective progress, to a further objective, was hampered by enemy machine-gun fire

from the right flank. Colonel Peck went forward and made a personal reconnaissance tour, all the time

under heavy machine-gun fire and sniping across a stretch of ground which was being heavily swept by

enemy fire. Returning to the Battalion, he reorganised, and then, acting on the knowledge he'd gained

from his reconnaissance, pushed them forward, arranging to protect his flanks. Making his way out under

the most intense artillery and machine-gun fire, he intercepted our tanks and gave them the necessary

instructions to where they were to make for, thus making it possible for Canadian Infantry Battalion to

push forward. He then gave this Battalion the required support. His magnificent display of courage and

leadership allowed the advance to continue and contributed largely to the success of the brigade attacks.

84

Frederick Thornton PETERS

RANK: Captain (N)

DECORATIONS: DSO, DSC & Bar.

UNIT: HMS Walney, Royal Navy

BORN: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island - September 17, 1889

ACTION: Oran, Algeria - November 8, 1942

DIED: At sea near Gibralter - November 13, 1942

FOREIGN DECORATIONS: Distinguished Service Cross ( USA ) and Messina Earthquake Medal 1908

REMARKS killed when the Sunderland seaplane which was returning him to England crashed Awarded a

mentioned in dispatches in World War One


For Valour in taking HMS Walney, into the harbour of Oran, North Africa, on 8th November 1942. This

port was held by the Vichy French. Captain Peters led his force through the boom towards the jetty, all

the time under fire at point-blank range from the enemy shore batteries as well as fire from a Vichy

French Destroyer and a Cruiser. Although he was blinded in one eye, he was the only one of 17 officers

on the bridge that survived. HMS Walney, badly disabled and on fire, managed to make it to the jetty. She

sank with her Colours flying.

Messina Earthquake Medal 1908

http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=pis&GRid=7678152&PIgrid=7678152&PIpi=1581398&

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85

Walter Leigh RAYFIELD

RANK: Private (later Captain)

DECORATIONS:


BORN: Richmond-on-the-Thames, Surrey, UK – October 7, 1881

ACTION: Arras, France - September 2, 1918.

DIED: Toronto, Ontario - February 19, 1949

FOREIGN DECORATIONS: Silver Medal of the Royal Order of the Crown (Belgium)

REMARKS


East of Arras, France, from the 2nd to 4th September 1918, during operations, Private Rayfield rushed

ahead of his company, to a trench occupied by a large number of the enemy, where he bayoneted two of

them and took 10 prisoners. Later, on locating an enemy sniper, who was causing many casualties,

Private Rayfield, with great skill, and under constant rifle fire, engaged the sniper. Then rushing the

section of trench from where the sniper had operated, he so demoralised the enemy, by his daring and

calm, that 30 more of them surrendered to him. Regardless of his own personal safety, he left , under

cover of heavy machine-gun fire, to carry in a badly wounded comrade. "His indomitable courage, cool

foresight and daring reconnaissance were invaluable to his Company Commander and an inspiration to

all ranks."

86

Herbert Taylor READE

RANK: Surgeon (later Surgeon General)

DECORATIONS: CB

UNIT: 61st Regiment of Foot

BORN: Perth, Upper Canada - September 2, 1828

ACTION: Delhi, India - September 14, 1857

DIED: Bath, Somerset, England - June 23, 1897


REMARKS


During the Siege of Delhi, India, on 14th September 1857, Surgeon Reade was attending to the wounded,

at the end of one of the the city's streets, when a party of rebels advanced, from the direction of the Bank,

towards where he was working. Having established a position, they started firing from the roofs of the

nearby houses. This placed the wounded in extreme danger and susceptible to falling into enemy hands.

Surgeon Reade called upon the few soldiers that were there, around 10 in all , and drawing his sword led

them, under extremely heavy fire from the rebels, towards their positions and dislodged them. Two of his

own men were killed and five or six wounded. Two days later, at the assault on Delhi, Surgeon Reade was

amongst the first at the breach in the magazine, where he, and a sergeant, spiked one of the enemy's guns.


87

Arthur Herbert Lindsay RICHARDSON

RANK: Sergeant

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians).

BORN: Southport, Lancashire - September 23, 1872

ACTION: Wolwespruit, South Africa - July 5, 1900

DIED: Liverpool, England - December 15, 1932


REMARKS


At Wolwespruit, South Africa, 38 personnel of Lord Strathcona's Horse were engaged at close-quarters

by an enemy force, around 80 in number. After the order had been given to retire, Sergeant Richardson,

under very heavy crossfire, rode back and picked up a Trooper, who was wounded in two places, and

whose horse had been shot from under him, and rode with him, under fire, to safety. Sergeant

Richardson, himself, was at the time of this act of gallantry, within 300 yards of the enemy and his own

horse had been wounded.

88

George RICHARDSON


DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 34th Regiment of foot (later The Border Regiment)

BORN: Derrylane, Killyshandra, County Cavan - August 1, 1831

ACTION: Kewane Trans-Gogra, India - April 27, 1859

DIED: London, Ontario - January 28, 1923


REMARKS:


On 27th April 1859, Private Richardson showed determined courage when, although severely wounded,

one arm actually disabled, closed with, and secured a mutineer who was armed with a broad revolver.

This act took place at Keware Trans-Gogra, India.


89

James Cleland RICHARDSON

RANK: Piper

DECORATIONS:


BORN: Bellshill, Scotland - November 25, 1895

ACTION: Somme, France - October 8, 1916

DIED: near Courcelette, France- 8 or 9 October 8, 1916


REMARKS killed in this action


On 8th October, 1916 at Regina trench, Somme, France, the company was held up by very strong wire

and came under intense fire. Piper Richardson, who had obtained permission to play the company 'over-

the-top' strode up and down outside the wire playing his pipes, which so inspired the company that the

wire was rushed and the position captured. Later the piper was detailed to take back a wounded comrade

and some prisoners, but after preceding some distance he insisted on turning back to recover its pipes

which he had left behind. He was never seen again.

90

Thomas RICKETTS


DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 1st Bn, Royal Newfoundland Regiment

BORN: Middle Arm, White Bay, Newfoundland - April 15, 1901

ACTION: Ledeghem, Belgium, - October 14, 1918

DIED: St. John's, Newfoundland - February 10, 1967


REMARKS:


On 14 October 1918 at Ledeghem, Belgium, Private Rickets volunteered to go with his section

commander and a Lewis gun in an attempt to out-flank an enemy battery causing casualties at pointy

blank range. Their ammunition was exhausted when still 300 yards from the battery and the enemy began

to bring up their gun teams. Private Rickets doubled back 100 yards under the heaviest machine-gun fire,

procured ammunition and dashed back again to the Lewis gun. They then drove the enemy and gun teams

into a farm and the platoon was able to advance. They captured four field guns, four machine-guns and

eight prisoners.

91

James Peter ROBERTSON

RANK: Private

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 27th (City of Winnipeg) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Albion Mines (now called Stellarton), Pictou County, Nova Scotia - October 26, 1883

ACTION: Passchendaele, Belgium - November 6, 1917

DIED: Passchendaele, Belgium - November 6, 1917




On 6th November 1917, at Passchendaele, Belgian, when his platoon was held up by uncut barbed-wire

and an enemy machine-gun that was causing many casualties, Private Robertson rushed to an opening on

the flank, attacked the machine-gun, he struggled with the crew, killed four of them, turned the gun on the

fleeing remainder, who were terrified by his fierceness, as they ran for the safety of their own lines. His

gallant work allowed his own platoon to advance. After inflicting several casualties on the enemy, he

carried the captured machine gun to his final position and opened fire on the demoralised, retreating

enemy. His determined fire subdued the enemy snipers. His actions, of courage and calm, in the face of

the enemy were an inspiration to his comrades, spurring them on to greater efforts. Later, under

extremely heavy fire, he went out to rescue two of our snipers, from in front of the trench, badly wounded.

He was killed just as he rescued the second man.

92

Henry Howey ROBSON

RANK: Private

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 2nd Battalion, The Royal Scots (The Lothian Regiment)

BORN: South Shields -February 18, 1894

ACTION: Kemmel, Flanders/Belgium - December 14, 1914

DIED: Toronto, Ontario - March 4, 1964


REMARKS: he was the Sergeant-at-Arms for the Ontario Legislature


Private Robson climbed from his trench, under extremely heavy fire and rescued a wounded non-

commissioned officer, during an attack near Kemmel, France, on 14th December 1914. During another

attack, later, he attempted to rescue another wounded man and bring him to cover again exposed to

heavy fire. During this attempt he was wounded almost immediately, but persevered, with the attempt,

until he was made helpless when he received his second wound. On 13th November 1916, he was

seriously wounded again at Serres-on Ancre .

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:VCHenryHoweyRobson.jpg

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93

Charles Smith RUTHERFORD


DECORATIONS: MC, MM.


BORN: Haldimand Town, Ontario - January 9, 1892

ACTION: Monchy, France - August 26, 1918

DIED: Colborne, Ontario - June 11, 1989


REMARKS From 1934 to 1940, he was the Sergeant at Arms of the Ontario Legislature when Mitchell

Hepburn was Premier. He was the first sergeant at Arms to eject a member of the Legislature


Whilst in command of an assault party on 26th August 1918, at Monchy, France, Lieutenant Rutherford

found that he was a considerable distance ahead of his men. Almost at the same moment, ahead of him,

he sighted a fully armed strong enemy party outside a pillbox. With his revolver he beckoned them to

come towards him. They, in turn, indicated that they wanted him to go to them. This he did and informed

them that they were now his prisoners. The German officer disputed this and invited the lieutenant into

the pillbox. Lieutenant Rutherford declined the offer. He managed, by bluffing, to convince the officer that

they were surrounded and the whole party of the enemy, 45 in all, including two officers and three

machine-guns, surrendered to him. He also convinced the enemy officer to halt the fire of an enemy

machine gun close by, taking advantage of the situation to move his men up in support. The Lieutenant

then noticed that the right assaulting party was being held up by fire from another pillbox. He attacked

the pillbox with a Lewis gun, taking another 35 prisoners, along with their machine guns, enabling the

assault party to continue their advance. He was an inspiration to all those who saw him.

94

Francis Alexander Caron SCRIMGER


DECORATIONS:

UNIT: Canadian Army Medical Corps, Canadian Expeditionary Force, attached to 14th Battalion, (Royal

Montreal Regiment), Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Montreal, Quebec - February 10, 1880

ACTION: St. Julien, Belgium - April 25, 1915

DIED: Montreal, Quebec - February 13, 1937


REMARKS:


On 25 April 1915 at St.Julien, Belgium Captain Scrimger was in charge of an advanced dressing station.

He directed the removal of the wounded under heavy fire and carried a wounded officer out of a stable in

search of a place of greater safety. When he was unable to carry him any further, he remained with the

wounded man until help could be obtained.

95

Robert SHANKLAND

RANK: Lieutenant (later Lieutenant Colonel)

DECORATIONS: DCM

UNIT: 43rd (Cameron Highlanders of Canada) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Ayr, Scotland - October 10, 1887


DIED: Vancouver, British Columbia - January 20, 1968


REMARKS: served in world war two


Having gained a position at Passchendaele on 26th October 1917, Lieutenant Shankland organised the

remnants of his own platoon and other men from various companies to command the foreground where

they inflicted heavy casualties on the retreating Germans. He later dissipated a counter-attack, allowing

for the arrival of support troops. He then communicated to his HQ a detailed evaluation of the brigade

frontage. On its completion he rejoined his command, carrying on until relieved. His courage and his

example undoubtedly saved a critical situation.

96

Ellis Welwood SIFTON

RANK: Sergeant

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 18th (Western Ontario) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Wallacetown, Ontario - October 12, 1891

ACTION: Neuville-St.-Vaast, France - April 9, 1917

DIED: Vimy Ridge, France - April 9, 1917


REMARKS: killed in this action


During an attack on enemy trenches at Neuville-St-Vaast, France, on 9th April 1917, Lance Sergeant

Sifton's company received many casualties when they were held up by machine gun fire. There sergeant,

having located the gun, single-handedly charged at it and killed all the crew. A small party of Germans

moved down the trench towards him, these he held off using his bayonet and his rifle, as a club, until his

comrades arrived. He was killed by a dying German, who rolled over, picked up and aimed a rifle at

Lance Sergeant Sefton, during this action. His conspicuous Valour contributed greatly to the success of

the operation and undoubtedly saved many lives.

97

John Alexander SINTON

RANK: Captain (later Brigadier)

DECORATIONS: OBE

UNIT: Indian Medical Service

BORN: Victoria, British Columbia - December 2, 1884

ACTION: Orah Ruins, Mesopotamia - January 21, 1916

DIED: Cookstown, Co. Tyrone, Ireland - March 25, 1956

FOREIGN DECORATIONS: Cross, Order of St George ( Russia ), Egypt Gambia Medal

REMARKS: Awarded a mentioned in dispatches in World War One and two


On 21 January 1916 at the Orah Ruins, Mesopotamia (Iraq),although Captain Alexander had been shot

through both arms and had also been wounded in the side, he refused to be taken to hospital and

continued to attend to the wounded, under extremely heavy fire, as long as the daylight lasted. He also

displayed extreme gallantry on three previous occasions.

98

Ernest Alvia ("Smokey") SMITH


DECORATIONS: CM, OBC, CD.

UNIT: Seaforth Highlanders of Canada

BORN: New Westminster, British Columbia - 3 May 1914

ACTION: Savio River, Italy - October 21-22, 1944

DIED: Vancouver, British Columbia - August 3, 2005


REMARKS: last Canadian Victoria Cross winner


Private Smith of the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada, was in the spearhead of the attack to establish a

bridgehead over the River Savio, in Northern Italy on the night of the 21st and 22nd October 1944, which

they did, inspite of strong enemy opposition At a range of 30 feet, and in full view of the enemy, Private

Smith put a German tank out of action with a Projector, Infantry Anti-Tank gun. (PIAT). Again, he

destroyed a second tank as well as two self-propelled guns, whilst protecting a wounded soldier. He also

routed a body of enemy infantry with a Thomson machine-gun at point-blank range. He kept more enemy

infantry engaged, using some abandoned Tommy gun magazines from a ditch, until they withdrew in

disarray.

http://www.gg.ca/heraldry/pub-reg/project-pic.asp?lang=e&ProjectID=304&ProjectElementID=1256

99

Robert SPALL

RANK: Sergeant

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, (Eastern Ontario Regiment), Canadian Expeditionary

Force

BORN: Suffolk County, England - March 5, 1890

ACTION: Parvillers, France - August 13, 1918

DIED: Parvillers, France - August 13, 1918




Sergeant Spall's Platoon became isolated during an enemy counter attack on the 12th 13th August 1918

near Parvillers, France. Taking a Lewis gun, he stood on a Parapet and fired upon the advancing enemy

causing them to suffer many casualties. He came down from the trench, directing his men into a Sap, 75

yards from the enemy. Taking up another Lewis gun, he again mounted the Parapet and held up the

enemy with his fire. During this action he was killed but thanks to his courage and the giving of his life,

the platoon was saved.

100

Harcus STRACHAN

RANK: Lieutenant (later Lieutenant Colonel)

DECORATIONS: MC

UNIT: The Fort Garry Horse

BORN: Borrowstounness, West Lothian, Scotland - November 7, 1884

ACTION: Masnieres, France - November 20, 1917

DIED: Vancouver, British Columbia - May 1, 1982




Lieutenant Strachan took command of his squadron, on 20th November 1917 at Masnieres, France, when

its leader was killed galloping at the enemy line. He led the squadron through a line of enemy machine-

gun posts and then, with the remains of his squadron, led a charge on the enemy battery. Using his sword,

he killed seven gunners. Having killed all the Gunners and silenced the battery, once more the men

rallied and at night-time they fought their way back through the enemy lines, bringing back all the

unwounded to safety; along with 15 enemy prisoners. This outstanding and fearless officer had, with his

squadron, silenced the battery; killed all battery personnel; killed many Infantry and had also cut

telephone communications two miles to the rear of the enemy lines.

101

James Edward TAIT

RANK: Lieutenant

DECORATIONS: MC

UNIT: 78th (Winnipeg Grenadiers) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Dumfries, Scotland - May 27, 1886,

ACTION: Amiens, France - August 8 – 11, 1918

DIED: Amiens, France - August 11, 1918



Digest citation reads:

Lieutenant Tait rallied his company after the advance had been held up by intense machine-gun fire

during the period 8th/11th August 1918, at Amiens, France. With considerable skill and flair, he led his

company forward under a hail of bullets from the Machine-guns. One well concealed machine gun

continued to harass and cause considerable casualties. Lieutenant Tait, acquired a rifle and bayonet, and

dashing forward alone, killed the enemy machine-gunner. His men, inspired by his courage and example,

rushed the position and captured 12 machine guns and 20 prisoners. This action made it possible for the

battalion to advance. When the enemy counter-attacked the Allied lines under cover of an intense

Artillery bombardment, Lieutenant Tait again gave an exhibition of outstanding courage and leadership.

Although he was mortally wounded from shellfire, he continued, until his death, to direct and aid the men

of his company.

102

Frederick Albert TILSTON

RANK: Major (later Colonel)

DECORATIONS: KStJ, CD.

UNIT: The Essex Scottish Regiment

BORN: Toronto, Ontario - June 11, 1906

ACTION: The Hochwald, Germany - March 1, 1945

DIED: Toronto, Ontario - September 23, 1992


REMARKS:


At the Hochwald Forest, Germany, on the 1st March 1945, Major Tilston led his company in the attack,

even though he was wounded, through a tangle of 10 ft of barbed-wire, towards the enemy trenches. He

personally silenced a machine-gun and was the first to reach the enemy position. While pressing on to the

second objective, he received a severe wound in the hip but carried on regardless. His unshakeable

confidence and his own enthusiasm gave such inspiration, to the men of his company, that they

determinedly held on against greater odds. Wounded for a third time, and hardly conscious, he refused

any medical attention until he given complete instructions to his men for the holding of the position.

103

Joseph Harcourt TOMBS

RANK: Lance Corporal (later Sergeant)

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 1st Battalion, The King's (Liverpool Regiment)

BORN: Melbourne, Australia - March 23, 1888

ACTION: Rue du Bois, France - June 16, 1915

DIED: Toronto, Ontario - June 28, 1966


REMARKS: Served in the RCAF in world war 2 Awarded a mentioned in dispatches in World War One


Lance-Corporal Tombs, on his own initiative, repeatedly made his way out under extremely heavy fire,

from shell and machine-gun, in order to bring in some wounded men who were lying, approximately 100

yards, in front of our trenches. He managed to rescue four men, one of whom was so badly wounded that

had he not received Medical attention, he surely would have died. This man, Lance-Corporal Tombs

dragged back by placing a rifle sling around the man's body and his own neck.


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:King's_R_horse.png

104

Frederick George TOPHAM

RANK: Corporal

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion

BORN: Toronto, Ontario - August 10, 1917

ACTION: Rhine, Germany - March 24, 1945

DIED: Etobicoke, Ontario - May 31, 1974


REMARKS:


Two medical orderlies had been killed whilst attending to a wounded man on the 24th March, 1945 at

Diersfordter, North West Europe. On his own initiative, Corporal Topham went out to continue their

work and was injured through the nose. Despite his wound, he attended to the casualty and then brought

the man in under continuous and heavy fire, and further refusing any medical treatment himself until all

the casualties were cleared. He rescued three men from a disabled carrier, later in the day, despite the

fact that the ammunition on board the carrier was exploding.

105

Charles William TRAIN


DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 2/14th (County of London) Battalion, The London Regiment (London Scottish)

BORN: London, England - September 21, 1890

ACTION: Ein Kerem, near Jerusalem - December 8, 1917

DIED: Vancouver,, British Columbia - March 28, 1965


REMARKS:


When his company was unexpectedly engaged and brought to a halt, at close range, by the enemy with

two machine guns, at Air Karim, near Jerusalem,Palestine. Corporal Train rushed forward and engaged

the enemy with grenades, succeeding in putting some of the enemy team out of action by means of a direct

hit. He did this on his own initiative, during which, he shot and wounded an enemy officer, killing or

wounding, with grenades and rifle , most of the remainder of the team. Following this he went to the

assistance of a comrade who was also bombing the enemy from the front, Corporal Train killed one of

them who happened to be carrying his machine gun out of the action. He was no doubt responsible for

saving his battalion from receiving heavy casualties, enabling them to advance at a seemingly critical

time.


106

Paul TRIQUET

RANK: Major (later Brigadier)

DECORATIONS: KStJ, CD.

UNIT: Royal 22e Régiment

BORN: Cabano, Quebec, - April 2, 1910

ACTION: Casa Berardi, Italy – December 14, 1943

DIED: Québec City, Quebec - August 8, 1980

FOREIGN DECORATIONS: Chevalier, Legion of Honour (France)

REMARKS:


On 14th December at Casa Berardi, Italy, during the attack, and supported by a Canadian Armoured

Regiment, Captain Triquet and his company came under very heavy fire from machine guns and mortars.

When all of his company's officers and half its men had been either killed or wounded, Captain Triquet

dashed forward accompanied by the remaining men and broke through the enemy's resistance. With his

small body of men, who by this time were reduced to 15 men and two senior NCOs, they forced their way

forward gaining a position on the objective's outskirts. During the action, four tanks were destroyed and

several machine-gun nests put out of action. This small contingent, along with the remaining tanks, held

out against attacks from superior numbers of the enemy until they were relieved the following day by the

remainder of the Battalion. Captain Triquet showed an utter disregard for danger throughout the whole

of the action and filled his men with inspiration by his cheerful encouragement.

107

Sir Richard Ernest William TURNER

RANK: Lieutenant (later Lieutenant General)

DECORATIONS: KCB, KCMG, DSO, VD, CD & Bar.

UNIT: Royal Canadian Dragoons

BORN: Quebec City, Quebec - July 25, 1871

ACTION: Komati River - November 7, 1900

DIED: Quebec City, Quebec - June 19, 1961

FOREIGN DECORATIONS: Order of the White Eagle with swords (Russia, Imperial), Commander,

Legion of Honour ( 3rd Class ) ( France ), Croix de Guerre with palms ( France )

REMARKS: Lieutenant General Sir Richard Turner served in the European War (WW I), Commanding a

Canadian Brigade of Infantry and the 2nd Canadian Division: he was also the General Officer

Commanding Canadian forces in England from 1916-18 Awarded a mentioned in dispatches in World

War One


During an action at Komati River, South Africa, on 7th November 1900, the guns were in danger of being

captured by the Boers. Lieutenant Turner, although twice wounded, dismounted and by deploying his men

at close quarters was successful in driving off the enemy, thus saving the guns.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:POL_Order_Or%C5%82a_Bia%C5%82ego_BAR.svg

108

Thomas Orde Lawder WILKINSON

RANK: Lieutenant

DECORATIONS:

UNIT: 7th Battalion, The Loyal North Lancashire Regiment

BORN: Bridgnorth, England - June 29, 1894

ACTION: La Boiselle, France - July 5, 1916

DIED: La Boiselle, France - July 5, 1916


REMARKS: Killed in this action. Family moved to Canada prior to the war, and at the outbreak of the

war in 1914 Wilkinson joined the 16th Battalion, Canadian Scottish. After the regiment arrived in

England he transferred as a temporary Lieutenant to the 7th Battalion of the Loyal North Lancashire

Regiment as Gunnery Officer


On 5 July 1916 at La Boiselle, France, during an attack when a party of men from another unit were

retiring without their machine-gun, Lieutenant Wilkinson with two of his men, got the gun into action and

held up the enemy until relieved. Later he forced his way forward during a bombing attack and found four

or five men from different units stopped by a wall of earth over which the enemy was throwing bombs. He

at once mounted the machine-gun on top of the parapet and dispersed the bombers. Subsequently. In

trying to bring in a wounded man, he was killed


109

John Francis YOUNG


DECORATIONS:


BORN: Kidderminster, England, January 14, 1893

ACTION: Dury-Arras Sector, France - September 2, 1918

DIED: Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, Quebec, - November 7, 1929


REMARKS:


Throughout the operations on the 2nd 3rd and 4th September 1918, whilst acting as a stretcher bearer he

showed the greatest Valour and devotion to duty. On the 2nd September 1918, in an attack at the Dury

Arras Sector, France, whilst attached to D company, the company came under heavy shell and machine-

gun fire: causing them to suffer many casualties. Without hesitation, Private Young went out into the

open, where there was a complete absence of cover and the area was being swept with enemy fire, and

there worked ceaselessly to dress the wounds on the casualties. He returned to replenish his supplies of

bandages and dressings, all of the time under extremely heavy enemy fire, on more than one occasion.

For over an hour he continued this heroic work. When the enemy fire had died down, he personally led

parties of stretcher-bearers to bring in the casualties that he had dressed earlier.

110

Raphael Louis ZENEL

RANK: Sergeant

DECORATIONS: MM

UNIT: 5th (Western Cavalry) Battalion., Canadian Expeditionary Force

BORN: Fairbault, Minnesota, USA - November 11, 1894

ACTION: Warvillers, France - August 9, 1918

DIED: Nanaimo, British Columbia – February 25, 1977




On 9 August 1918 east of Warvillers, france, Sergeant Zengel was leading his platoon forward to the

attack when he realised that an enemy machine-gun was firing into the advancing line.He rushed forward

ahead of the platoon to the gun emplacement, killed the officer and the operator of the gun and dispersed

the crew. Later in the day he was rendered temporarily unconscious by an enemy shell but on recovering

continued to direct harassing fire on the enemy. His utter disregard for personal safety and the

confidence he inspired in all ranks greatly assisted in the outcome of the attack.

111

RIBBON CHART

Victoria Cross

Companion of the order

of Canada

Officer of the Order of

Canada

Order of the Bath (KCB,

CB)

Order of St.Michael &

St.George (KCMG. CMG.)

Order of the British

Empire (CBE, OBE)

Distinguished Service

Order (DSO)


Cross (DSC)

Military Cross (MC)

Distinguished Flying

Cross

Member, Order of Canada

Order of British

Columbia

Order of St.John

Distinguished Conduct

Medal (DCM)

Military Medal (MM)

Crimean War Medal

1854-6

India General Service

Medal 1854-95

Indian Mutiny Medal

1857-8

Abyssinian War 1867-8

North West Canada 1885

Queen’s Sudan Medal

1896-7

Queens South Africa

1899-1902

King’s South Africa 1901-

2

1914 Star

1914 – 15 Star

1914 – 18 British War

Medal

Merchant Marine Medal

1914 – 18 Victory Medal

with MiD

1918-64 General Service

Medal

39-45 Star

Atlantic Star

Air Crew Europe Star &

FG Clasp

Africa Stat

Paci fic Star

Burma Star

Italy Star

France & Germany Stat

1939 – 45 Defence Medal

Canadian Volunteer

Service Medal & overseas clasp

1939 – 45 War Medal

with MiD

Edward VII Coronation

1902

George V Coronation

1911

George V Jubilee 1935

George VI Coronation

1937

Elizabeth II Coronation

1952

1967 Centennial Medal

Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee

1977

Canada 125 medal

Elizabeth II Golden

Jubilee

Army Long Service

Medal

Volunteer Offi cers Decoration (VD)

Efficiency Decoration

(ED)

Efficiency Medal

Canadian Forces Decoration (CD)

Canadian Corps of

Commissionaires Long

Service Medal

Silver Medal of the Royal

Order of the Crown (Belgium)

Croix de Guerre

(Belgium)

Knight, Order of

Dannebrog (Denmark)

Khedives Sudan Medal

1896-1908

Commander, Legion of

Honour (3rd Class) (France)

Legion of Honour

(France)

Croix de Guerre (France)

Italian silver medals for

Military Valour

Order of the White Eagle

with swords (Russia,

Imperial)

Order of St George

(Russia)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:POL_Order_Or%C5%82a_Bia%C5%82ego_BAR.svg

112

Turkish Crimea Medal

Commander, Legion of

Merit (USA)


Cross (USA) Denotes additional

awards

New Canadian Victoria Cross

Bibliography

The register of the Victoria Cross, this England – 1988

True Canadian Victoria Cross Heroes, Arthur Bishop – 2008

Photo credits

All are Directorate Honours & Recognition – DND unless stated

Wikipedia, the free encyclopaedia – front-page, 7, 8, 12, 25, 27, 28, 35, 61, 73, 75, 82, 88, 92, 97, 103,

105.

Authors collection pg 10, 40, 77, 86, 108

Legion Magazine 30, 31

Veteran Affairs Canada – 44, 112.

Documents

Brave Hearts: Ribbon Register of the Victoria Cross to Canadians