PRIVATES ERN EST SYKES, Northumberland Fusiliers, (left), and MICHAEL HEAVISIDE Durham Light Infantry
V.C.'s WAITING TO BE DECORATED BY THE KING, JULY 21, 1917. Left to right: Lieut. Donald Stuart, Lance-Corporal W. Parker, Seaman Williams, Brig.-General Lumsden, Major Thain McDowell, Capt. Pollard, Capt. Newlands, Lieut. F. Harvey, Second Lieut. Haine, Sergt. Whittle, Corporal Howell, Company-Srgt.·Major Edward Brooks.
CARRYING IN WOUNDED UNDER FIRE
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/captain-balls-fate-zwntl8tmf?CMP=TNLEmail_118918_1913566
Captain Ball’s fate
Beyond doubt his was the most wonderful series of victories yet achieved by a flying man of any nation
May 18, 1917
As already announced in The Times, Captain Albert Ball, Royal Flying Corps, has been missing since May 7, but no news of him has been received since his failure to return from his last expedition. So far as is known, the facts are as follows:
On the evening of May 7 he had gone out in company with another machine, flown by a pilot whom we will call “M”. They met an enemy machine, which they attacked and drove down, riddled with bullets. Then a party of four Germans hove in sight, with whom the British fliers promptly closed. “M” found one enemy machine in such a favourable position that he was practically at its mercy, so he put his own machine into a spin and began to go down. It must be an unpleasant experience, but it was successful in shaking off the enemy. “M” regained control of his machine, climbed up again, and re-entered the fight. He tackled one of the Germans, and, after a long fight, sent it down crashing to earth. Then he turned to engage another machine, but, on closing with it, a bullet broke his wrist and another carried away the top of his control lever. Thus crippled he could fight no more, but, though in great pain and unable to control his machine, he managed to get over the lines and land his aeroplane undamaged in our own territory. Then he fainted.
What happened after “M” was obliged to leave the field of battle is a mystery. Captain Ball was then left with three enemy machines to fight. Such odds were nothing new in Captain Ball’s experience, for only two days before, namely, on May 5, he had driven down two enemies, and, to make sure, he had gone down close to the ground and saw the two huddled wrecks lying within 400 yards of each other. One of the two had put a bullet into his engine and Captain Ball had been covered with oil. As no more enemies were in sight he came home for a wash.
The next day Captain Ball again went out and met a party of four Germans, and promptly diving into the centre of their formation, sent them scattering. He picked out one, chased it, and sent it crashing down. Then he looked for the others, but they were not fighting that day and made for home as fast as they could. The precise number of enemy machines Captain Ball brought down during his career is not known. There are records of 41 quite certain, and 10 more morally certain, with a large number of probabilities as well. Beyond doubt his was the most wonderful series of victories yet achieved by a flying man of any nation.
On the evening of May 7 he had gone out in company with another machine, flown by a pilot whom we will call “M”. They met an enemy machine, which they attacked and drove down, riddled with bullets. Then a party of four Germans hove in sight, with whom the British fliers promptly closed. “M” found one enemy machine in such a favourable position that he was practically at its mercy, so he put his own machine into a spin and began to go down. It must be an unpleasant experience, but it was successful in shaking off the enemy. “M” regained control of his machine, climbed up again, and re-entered the fight. He tackled one of the Germans, and, after a long fight, sent it down crashing to earth. Then he turned to engage another machine, but, on closing with it, a bullet broke his wrist and another carried away the top of his control lever. Thus crippled he could fight no more, but, though in great pain and unable to control his machine, he managed to get over the lines and land his aeroplane undamaged in our own territory. Then he fainted.
What happened after “M” was obliged to leave the field of battle is a mystery. Captain Ball was then left with three enemy machines to fight. Such odds were nothing new in Captain Ball’s experience, for only two days before, namely, on May 5, he had driven down two enemies, and, to make sure, he had gone down close to the ground and saw the two huddled wrecks lying within 400 yards of each other. One of the two had put a bullet into his engine and Captain Ball had been covered with oil. As no more enemies were in sight he came home for a wash.
The next day Captain Ball again went out and met a party of four Germans, and promptly diving into the centre of their formation, sent them scattering. He picked out one, chased it, and sent it crashing down. Then he looked for the others, but they were not fighting that day and made for home as fast as they could. The precise number of enemy machines Captain Ball brought down during his career is not known. There are records of 41 quite certain, and 10 more morally certain, with a large number of probabilities as well. Beyond doubt his was the most wonderful series of victories yet achieved by a flying man of any nation.
The King and his brave subjects
The band struck up “A Life on the Ocean Wave,” but the jaunty quickstep was sad in contrast to the halting gait of Private Thomas Hughes, of the Connaught Rangers, who limped up to the pavilion on crutches
June 4, 1917
There has been little or no pageantry connected with this war. Battle pictures, parades, guard mountings are all studies in drab colours, and always the unimpressive khaki note pre- dominates. Much ceremony has gone by the board. But on Saturday there was held one of the most impressive military functions of the last three years, when the King decorated over 300 of his sailor and soldier subjects and 50 relatives of men who have died after winning decorations for valour. Twelve nurses also received the Royal Red Cross.
Early in the afternoon there was a bustle and a stir round Buckingham Palace and Wellington Barracks, and at 2 o’clock a detachment of Scots Guards, headed by the massed bands of the Brigade of Guards, marched up Constitution Hill to Hyde Park Comer and so along the Row to the enclosure fenced in for the investiture. There was a soft wind blowing, just enough to straighten out the folds of the Colour carried by a tall lieutenant of the Scots Guards. The Colour party entered the Park to the music of brass and reed instruments, but they marched along the Row to the skirl of the pipes. It was a scene to remember. Overhead there was a blue sky, blocked in with great white masses of clouds. The trees, in their best leaf and not yet spoiled by the dust of summer, made a cool canopy. The Row itself was lined with an expectant crowd, and the massed bands in their scarlet uniforms, the gold-laced coats of the drum-majors, and the line on line of bearskin busbies, made a fine showing by very contrast with the khaki of the guard. The pipers, each with the wonderfully worked silken bannerette fluttering from the drone, and the drummers with their painted drums, looked the proudest men in the procession. With a right wheel the party swung into the enclosure and the lines of sentries presented arms to the colours. The tune they marched in to was an American one, and the compliment was appreciated to the full by the little group of United States Army nurses and men of the medical corps to the right of the dais.
The scene was changed from moment to moment during the next half-hour, but by half-past 2 most of the spectators had settled into their places. To the right of the dais as one fronted it was a gay group of military uniforms with much gold oak-leaf braid, many medal ribbons and red tabs. On the other side were the representatives of the Navy, while farther to their right again were the American nurses in their sober blue uniform and workmanlike wide-awake hats. Just near them was a splash of colour rnade by the scarlet cloaks of a group of children from the home for soldiers’ orphans. The main colour of the big circle was blue, for on each side, sitting in chairs and lying full length on the grass, there were 300 wounded soldiers in their hospital kit. The bright blue tunic with its white lapels and lining and the scarlet ties gave a most pleasing effect.
AN HONOURED GROUP.
But the chief interest centred in a group of men and women in a block of chairs fronting the dais. The group of men and women were those whom the King delighted to honour. It was a quaint gathering, for there were men of every class and from many walks in life. Men who, before the war, had had no thought beyond peaceful employment were gathered here to receive from their King, and the highest officer in the land, decorations for acts of war which three years ago would have seemed impossible to them. There were men in khaki there; men in mufti; men in the kilt; men in naval blue; and civilians, who were to receive their dead relatives’ medals. Near the back row were a dozen nurses, with their white folded kerchiefs fluttering in the breeze above their scarlet cloaks.
In the row behind the note of colour ceased, for all the men and women there but one wore black. They were mothers, fathers, brothers, widows, and sisters of men who are dead, but who need no printed roll of honour to keep their memory bright.
From the Row, again, there came a flourish, of trumpets and the jingle of steel trace-chains and bits. The King was arriving. Cheers heralded his approach down the avenue like waves of sound-waves which broke thunderously as the Royal landau pulled up at the pavilion and the bands played the National Anthem. The thousands of watchers saluted or uncovered, and the King stood at attention and at the salute as the folds of the silken Royal Standard were broken from the staff in the centre of the ground. His Majesty talked for a while to those on the dais and then inspected the guard.
On his return to the pavilion the first recipient marched up the inclined way, saluted, and shook hands with the King. This was Major Henry Murray, of the Australian Infantry, a man with as fine a record of “sheer valour” (the words of the London Gazette) as any in the field. He has won the Distinguished Service Order, a bar to it, and the Victoria Cross, and to do this he seems to have accomplished nearly every task it was possible to set himself in an attack. He “made his presence felt throughout the line, encouraging his men, heading bombing parties, leading bayonet charges, and carrying wounded to places of safety.” Again these are the words of the London Gazette, in which are stated all war’s most wonderful deeds in the bald and unconvincing phraseology of Army officialdom.
The next man to be decorated was Lieutenant-Colonel James Forbes-Robertson of the Border Regiment. Ho was given the DSO and the MC and he came down the incline with a jaunty step and a smiling face.
CAPTAINS COURAGEOUS.
The two next officers were men whose names are known throughout the Empire and whose deeds are fresh in the minds of every Briton. The first was Captain Ambrose Peck, of the Swift, and the second was Captain Edward Evans - “Teddy” Evans - of the Broke. Both officers were loudly cheered, and their happy faces showed that they had a full sense of the honour done them. Captain Evans rose from his seat smiling. He smiled as he saluted and shook hands with the King, and as he walked down from the platform with the cross of the Order shining in the sun he beamed at the crowd.
Another VC came after six more DSOs. He was Captain William Allen, of the RAMC, already the wearer of the Military Cross. He dressed the wounds of many men while he himself was suffering from four wounds and had two broken ribs. When his work was over and there was nothing more for him to do, he went back to his dug-out and reported his injury.
But one cannot tell all their stories. Second Lieutenant Frederick Palmer, VC, when he was Lance-Sergeant “Fred” Palmer, of the Royal Fusiliers, saved his portion of the line from disaster. Lieutenant (temporary Lieutenant-Colonel) Roland Bradford, MC, Durham Light Infantry, took on the leadership of two battalions, rallied an attack, captured, secured, and held his objective, and made the flank safe for all time. He won the VC. Captain Archie White, Yorkshire Regiment, for four days and nights held a position that the Germans wanted badly. He risked his life continually, and was the life and soul of the defence. Private John Cunningham, East Yorkshire Regiment, came next, and he also was given the bronze cross for magnificent conduct. When the writer of the London Gazette notice let himself go a little in describing this soldier’s exploit: “This gallant soldier went on alone. Having, expended all his. bombs, he returned for a fresh supply, and again proceeded to the communication trench, where he met a party of 10 of the enemy. These he killed, and cleared the trench up to the enemy line.” He was cheered to the echo as he limped down to his seat again.
The band struck up “A Life on the Ocean Wave,” but the jaunty quickstep was sad in contrast to the halting gait of Private Thomas Hughes, of the Connaught Rangers, who limped up to the pavilion on crutches. The salute he gave almost made him lose his balance, but the King shook the private’s hand warmly and spoke to him sympathetically. Then came a Iong list of Distinguished Conduct Medallists and afterwards many sailors, Petty Officers, Able Seamen, Stokers, Yeomen of Signals Armourers, Mates, Telegraphists, and “tiffies,” all to receive the Distinguished Service Cross.
It is not given to many men in the Navy to rise to commissioned rank in the Army, but Second Lieutenant Reginald Stewart, of the Royal Engineers, won his DSM as a second-class engine-room artificer in the Senior Service. His old comrades in blue cheered him loudly.
AN AERIAL ESCORT. About this time there was a stir in the crowd, and heads were turned upwards towards the clouds. There, high above the earth, hung four aeroplanes. One says hung, for they were so high that they seemed almost motionless. They flew in perfect formation, now in echelon, now with one machine ahead, two flanking, and one bringing up the rear. The King had clattered up to the ground with an escort of the 1st Life Guards, and now he was still guarded by a Sovereign’s Escort in the clouds. They weaved slow circles through the clouds, and later, far above them. They turned, crossed the City, and came back, keeping a ceaseless watch over the King, and ready to give warning of the approach of any danger in the air.
Then there was a long list of Military Medals. Often the men were lame, often they were maimed or had lost an arm; but whoever they were and of whatever rank the onlookers applauded them heartfully. A murmur ran round the crowd once, for an orderly was loading a blind man to the King’s presence. It was Corporal Albert Mason, in mufti, for he is a soldier no longer, but he won the Military Medal when in the London Regiment. He was halted in front of the King, who spoke to him for some time and reached down and grasped the wounded man’s hand.
The nurses to be decorated were cheered loudly as they curtseyed to the King. They looked more than picturesque in their different uniforms, for although there were but 10 of them they represented Britain, Canada, Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand. The wounded men sitting on the grass cheered each one, with the remembrance of the women who watched over them and made whole men of them again.
Mr George Cates, father of Second Lieutenant George Cates, VC, late Rifle Brigade, received his son decoration. Lieutenant Cates it was who put his foot on a bomb which was about to burst. He gave his own life, but he saved the lives of his comrades. A Scottish mother, Mrs Elizabeth Erskine, took her son’s Victoria Cross from the hands of the King with the sure knowledge that it was well won when Sergeant John Erskine shielded they body of his officer with his own and brought him into safety. It was a widow next, Mrs Lilian Mottershead, whose husband, Sergeant Thomas Mottershead, VC, Royal Flying Corps, died of burns after bringing back his blazing aeroplane and saving the life of his observer.
One of the decorations will be long remembered by all who saw the ceremony. Private James Fynn, VC, late of the South Wales Borderers, performed a dozen deeds of heroism at Sanna-i-yat in Mesopotamia, when he bandaged wounded men under continuous fire. He was killed over a year afterwards in Mesopotamia, and on Saturday his father, Private John Fynn, was present to receive the Victoria Cross. He was an old man, and his hair was grey, but he was young in body and mind and brisk in his step, and his salute as he approached and left the dais amidst rousing cheers. It would surely be a fine thing if Fynn was allowed to wear his son’s VC.
The line of women in black filed slowly up before his Majesty, and each came away with the medal and many memories.
Then the band formed up, and the King left though a line of cheering people. The men who had been decorated gave three well-timed and deep-voiced cheers for their Sovereign and sat down and waiting until the crowd thinned, and in the back row of seats women waited, each holding tightly a disc of metal or a cross with a coloured ribbon attached - the best heirloom of any that a soldier’s wife or mother may hand down to her children’s children.
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/eleven-vcs-and-bar-to-captain-chavasses-cross-rj0630pl6?CMP=TNLEmail_118918_1913566
The King has been pleased to approve of the award of a Bar to the Victoria Cross to Capt. Noel Godfrey Chavasse, VC, MC, late RAMC, attd. L’pool R. For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty when in action. Though severely wounded early in the action whilst carrying a wounded soldier to the Dressing Station, Capt Chavasse refused to leave his post, and for two days not only continued to perform his duties, but in addition went out repeatedly under heavy fire to search for and attend to the wounded who were lying out. During these searches, although practically without food during this period, worn with fatigue and faint with his wound, he assisted to carry in a number of badly wounded men, over heavy and difficult ground. By his extraordinary energy and inspiring example he was instrumental in rescuing many wounded who would have otherwise undoubtedly succumbed under the bad weather conditions. This devoted and gallant officer subsequently died of his wounds.
The King has been pleased to approve of the award of the Victoria Cross to the following Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers, and Men:
Lt.-Col (T./Brig-Gen.) Clifford Coffin, DSO, RE.
For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty. When his command was held up in attack owing to heavy machine-gun and rifle fire from front and right flank, and was establishing itself in a forward shell hole line, he went forward and made an inspection of his front posts. Though under the heaviest fire from both machine-guns and rifles, and in full view of the enemy, he showed an utter disregard of personal danger, walking quietly from shell holo to shell hole, giving advice generally, and cheering the men by his presence. His very gallant conduct had the greatest effect on all ranks, and it was largely owing to his personal courage and example that the shell hole line was held in spite of the very heaviest fire. Throughout the day his calm courage and cheerfulness exercised the greatest influence over all with whom he came in contact, and it is generally agreed that Brigadier-General Coffin’s splendid example saved the situation, and had it not been for his action the line would certainly have been driven back.
Lt. John Reginald Noble Graham, Arg. and Suthd. Highrs, attd MGC.
For most conspicuous bravery, coolness, and resource when in command of a Machine Gun Section. Lt Graham accompanied his guns across open ground, under very heavy rifle and machine gun fire, and when his men became casualties, he assisted in carrying the ammunition. Although twice wounded he continued during the advance to control his guns and was able, with one gun, to open an accurate fire on the enemy, who were massing for a counter-attack. This gun was put out of action by the enemy’s rifle fire, and he was again wounded. The advancing enemy forced him to retire, but before doing so he further disabled his gun, rendering it useless. He then brought a Lewis gun into action with excellent effect till all the ammunition was expended. He was again severely wounded, and forced through loss of blood to retire. His valour and skilful handling of his guns held up a strong counter-attack which threatened to roll up the left flank of the Brigade, and thus averted what might have been a very critical situation.
Sec. Lt. Dents George Wyldbore Hewitt, late Hamps. R.
For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty when in command of a company in attack. When his first objective had been captured he re-organized the company and moved forward towards his objective. While waiting for the barrage to lift he was hit by a piece of shell, which exploded the signal lights in his haversack, and set fire to his equipment and clothes. Having extinguished the flames, in spite of his wound and the severe pain he was suffering, he led forward the remains of the company under very heavy machine gun fire, and captured and consolidated his objective. He was subsequently killed by a sniper, while inspecting the consolidation and encouraging his men. This gallant officer set a magnificent example of coolness and contempt of danger to the whole Battalion, and it was due to. his splendid leading that the final objective of his Battalion was gained.
No. R.2794 Sgt. Edward Cooper, KRRC (Stockton).
For most conspicuous bravery and initiative in attack. Enemy machine guns from a concrete blockhouse, 250 yards away, were holding up the advance of the battalion on his left, and were also causing heavy casualties to his own battalion. Sgt Cooper, with four men, immediately rushed towards the blockhouse, though heavily fired on. About 100 yards distant he ordered his men to lie down and fire at the blockhouse. Finding this did not silence the machine guns, he immediately rushed forward straight at them and fired his revolver into an opening in the blockhouse. The machine guns ceased firing and the garrison surrendered. Seven machine guns and 45 prisoners were captured in this blockhouse. By this magnificent act of courage he undoubtedly saved what might have been a serious check to the whole advance, at the same time saving a great number of lives.
No. 265473 Sgt. Alexander Edwards, Sea. Highrs. (Lossiemouth).
For most conspicuous bravery in attack, whon having located a hostile machine gun in a wood, he, with great dash and courage, led some men against it, killed all the team, and captured the gun. Later, when a sniper was causing casualties, he crawled out to stalk him, and although badly wounded in the arm, went on and killed him. One officer only was now left with the company, and, realizing that the success of the operation depended on the capture of the furthest objective, Sgt.. Edwards, regardless of his wound, led his men on till this objective was captured. He subsequently showed great skill in consolidating his position, and very great daring in personal reconnaissance. Although again twice wounded on the following day, this very gallant NCO maintained throughout a complete disregard for personal safety, and his high example of coolness and determination engendered a fine fighting spirit in his men.
No. 13531 Sgt. (acting CQ.MS.) William H. Grimbaldeston, KO Sco. Bord. (Blackburn).
For most conspicuous bravery in attack. Noticing that the unit on his left was held up by enemy machine gun fire from a blockhouse, though wounded, he collected a small party to fire rifle grenades on this blockhouse. He then got a volunteer to assist him with rifle fire. ln spite of very heavy fire from the blockhouse he pushed on towards it, and made for the entrance, from which he threatened with a hand grenade the machine gun teams inside the blockhouse. These he forced to surrender one after another. The extraordinary courage and boldness of CQMS. Grimbaldeston resulted in his capturing 36 prisoners, six machine guns, and one trench mortar, and enabled the whole line to continue its advance.
No. 20002 Sgt. Ivor Rees, S. Wales Bord. (Lianelly).
For most conspicuous bravery in attack. A hostile machine gun opened fire at close range, inflicting many casualties. Leading his platoon forward by short rushes, Sergeant Rees gradually worked his way round the right flank to the rear of the gun position. When he was about 20 yards from the machine gun he rushed forward towards the team, shot one, and bayoneted another. He then bombed the large concrete emplacement, killing five, and capturing 30 prisoners, of whom two were officers, in addition to an undamaged machino gun.
No. 6895 Sgt. (Actg. C.S.-M.) John Skinner, KO Sco. Bord. (Pollokshields, Glasgow).
For most conspicuous bravery and good leading. Whilst his company was attacking, machine gun fire opened on the left flank, delaying the advance. Although CSM Skinner was wounded in the head, he collected six men, and with great courage and determination worked round the left flank of three blockhouse from which the machine gun fire was coming, and succeeded in bombing and taking the first blockhouse singlehanded; then, leading his six men towards the other two blockhouses, he skilfully cleared them, taking sixty prisoners, three machine guns, and two trench mortars. The dash and gallantry displayed by this warrant officer enabled the objective to be reached and consolidated.
No. 2O017 Cpl. (L-Sgt.) Tom Fletcher Mayson, R Lanc. R. (Silecourt, Cumberland).
For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty when with the leading wave of the attack his platoon was held up by machine gun fire from a tank. Without waiting for orders, L Sgt. Mayson at once made for the gun, which he put out of action with bombs, wounding four of the team. The remaining three of the team fled, pursued by L Sgt. Mayson to a dugout, into which he followed them and disposed of them with his bayonet. Later, when clearing up a strong point, this non-commissioned officer again tackled a machine gun single-handed, killing six of the team. Finally, during an enemy counter-attack, he took charge of an isolated post, and successfully held it till ordered to withdraw as his ammunition was exhausted. He displayed throughout the most remarkable valour and initiative.
No. 13303 Pte. Wilfrid Edwards, KO York. LI (Leeds).
For most conspicuous bravery whon under ,heavy machine gun and rifle fire from a strong concrete fort. Having lost all his company officers, without hesitation he dashed forward at great personal risk, bombed through the loopholes, surmounted the fort, and waved to his company to advance. By his splendid example he saved a most critical situation at a time when the whole battalion was held up and a leader urgently needed. Three officers and thirty other ranks were taken prisoner by him in the fort. Later, Pte. Edwards did most valuable work as a runner, and he eventually guided most of the battalion out through very difficult ground. Throughout he set a splendid personal example to all, and was utterly regardless of danger.
No. 16805 Pte. Arnold Loosemore, W. Rid. R. (Sheffield).
For most conspicuous bravery, and initiative during the attack on a strongly-held enemy position. His platoon having been checked by heavy machine-gun fire, he crawled through partially cut wire, dragging his Lewis gun with him, and single-handed dealt with a strong party of the enemy, killing about twenty of them, and thus covering the consolidation of the position taken up by his platoon. Immediately afterwards his Lewis gun was blown up by a bomb, and three enemy rushed for him, but he shot them all with his revolver. Later, he shot several enemy snipers, exposing himself to heavy fire each time. On returning to the original post he also brought back a wounded comrade under heavy fire at the risk of his life. He displayed throughout an utter disregard of danger.
Early in the afternoon there was a bustle and a stir round Buckingham Palace and Wellington Barracks, and at 2 o’clock a detachment of Scots Guards, headed by the massed bands of the Brigade of Guards, marched up Constitution Hill to Hyde Park Comer and so along the Row to the enclosure fenced in for the investiture. There was a soft wind blowing, just enough to straighten out the folds of the Colour carried by a tall lieutenant of the Scots Guards. The Colour party entered the Park to the music of brass and reed instruments, but they marched along the Row to the skirl of the pipes. It was a scene to remember. Overhead there was a blue sky, blocked in with great white masses of clouds. The trees, in their best leaf and not yet spoiled by the dust of summer, made a cool canopy. The Row itself was lined with an expectant crowd, and the massed bands in their scarlet uniforms, the gold-laced coats of the drum-majors, and the line on line of bearskin busbies, made a fine showing by very contrast with the khaki of the guard. The pipers, each with the wonderfully worked silken bannerette fluttering from the drone, and the drummers with their painted drums, looked the proudest men in the procession. With a right wheel the party swung into the enclosure and the lines of sentries presented arms to the colours. The tune they marched in to was an American one, and the compliment was appreciated to the full by the little group of United States Army nurses and men of the medical corps to the right of the dais.
The scene was changed from moment to moment during the next half-hour, but by half-past 2 most of the spectators had settled into their places. To the right of the dais as one fronted it was a gay group of military uniforms with much gold oak-leaf braid, many medal ribbons and red tabs. On the other side were the representatives of the Navy, while farther to their right again were the American nurses in their sober blue uniform and workmanlike wide-awake hats. Just near them was a splash of colour rnade by the scarlet cloaks of a group of children from the home for soldiers’ orphans. The main colour of the big circle was blue, for on each side, sitting in chairs and lying full length on the grass, there were 300 wounded soldiers in their hospital kit. The bright blue tunic with its white lapels and lining and the scarlet ties gave a most pleasing effect.
AN HONOURED GROUP.
But the chief interest centred in a group of men and women in a block of chairs fronting the dais. The group of men and women were those whom the King delighted to honour. It was a quaint gathering, for there were men of every class and from many walks in life. Men who, before the war, had had no thought beyond peaceful employment were gathered here to receive from their King, and the highest officer in the land, decorations for acts of war which three years ago would have seemed impossible to them. There were men in khaki there; men in mufti; men in the kilt; men in naval blue; and civilians, who were to receive their dead relatives’ medals. Near the back row were a dozen nurses, with their white folded kerchiefs fluttering in the breeze above their scarlet cloaks.
In the row behind the note of colour ceased, for all the men and women there but one wore black. They were mothers, fathers, brothers, widows, and sisters of men who are dead, but who need no printed roll of honour to keep their memory bright.
From the Row, again, there came a flourish, of trumpets and the jingle of steel trace-chains and bits. The King was arriving. Cheers heralded his approach down the avenue like waves of sound-waves which broke thunderously as the Royal landau pulled up at the pavilion and the bands played the National Anthem. The thousands of watchers saluted or uncovered, and the King stood at attention and at the salute as the folds of the silken Royal Standard were broken from the staff in the centre of the ground. His Majesty talked for a while to those on the dais and then inspected the guard.
On his return to the pavilion the first recipient marched up the inclined way, saluted, and shook hands with the King. This was Major Henry Murray, of the Australian Infantry, a man with as fine a record of “sheer valour” (the words of the London Gazette) as any in the field. He has won the Distinguished Service Order, a bar to it, and the Victoria Cross, and to do this he seems to have accomplished nearly every task it was possible to set himself in an attack. He “made his presence felt throughout the line, encouraging his men, heading bombing parties, leading bayonet charges, and carrying wounded to places of safety.” Again these are the words of the London Gazette, in which are stated all war’s most wonderful deeds in the bald and unconvincing phraseology of Army officialdom.
The next man to be decorated was Lieutenant-Colonel James Forbes-Robertson of the Border Regiment. Ho was given the DSO and the MC and he came down the incline with a jaunty step and a smiling face.
CAPTAINS COURAGEOUS.
The two next officers were men whose names are known throughout the Empire and whose deeds are fresh in the minds of every Briton. The first was Captain Ambrose Peck, of the Swift, and the second was Captain Edward Evans - “Teddy” Evans - of the Broke. Both officers were loudly cheered, and their happy faces showed that they had a full sense of the honour done them. Captain Evans rose from his seat smiling. He smiled as he saluted and shook hands with the King, and as he walked down from the platform with the cross of the Order shining in the sun he beamed at the crowd.
Another VC came after six more DSOs. He was Captain William Allen, of the RAMC, already the wearer of the Military Cross. He dressed the wounds of many men while he himself was suffering from four wounds and had two broken ribs. When his work was over and there was nothing more for him to do, he went back to his dug-out and reported his injury.
But one cannot tell all their stories. Second Lieutenant Frederick Palmer, VC, when he was Lance-Sergeant “Fred” Palmer, of the Royal Fusiliers, saved his portion of the line from disaster. Lieutenant (temporary Lieutenant-Colonel) Roland Bradford, MC, Durham Light Infantry, took on the leadership of two battalions, rallied an attack, captured, secured, and held his objective, and made the flank safe for all time. He won the VC. Captain Archie White, Yorkshire Regiment, for four days and nights held a position that the Germans wanted badly. He risked his life continually, and was the life and soul of the defence. Private John Cunningham, East Yorkshire Regiment, came next, and he also was given the bronze cross for magnificent conduct. When the writer of the London Gazette notice let himself go a little in describing this soldier’s exploit: “This gallant soldier went on alone. Having, expended all his. bombs, he returned for a fresh supply, and again proceeded to the communication trench, where he met a party of 10 of the enemy. These he killed, and cleared the trench up to the enemy line.” He was cheered to the echo as he limped down to his seat again.
The band struck up “A Life on the Ocean Wave,” but the jaunty quickstep was sad in contrast to the halting gait of Private Thomas Hughes, of the Connaught Rangers, who limped up to the pavilion on crutches. The salute he gave almost made him lose his balance, but the King shook the private’s hand warmly and spoke to him sympathetically. Then came a Iong list of Distinguished Conduct Medallists and afterwards many sailors, Petty Officers, Able Seamen, Stokers, Yeomen of Signals Armourers, Mates, Telegraphists, and “tiffies,” all to receive the Distinguished Service Cross.
It is not given to many men in the Navy to rise to commissioned rank in the Army, but Second Lieutenant Reginald Stewart, of the Royal Engineers, won his DSM as a second-class engine-room artificer in the Senior Service. His old comrades in blue cheered him loudly.
AN AERIAL ESCORT. About this time there was a stir in the crowd, and heads were turned upwards towards the clouds. There, high above the earth, hung four aeroplanes. One says hung, for they were so high that they seemed almost motionless. They flew in perfect formation, now in echelon, now with one machine ahead, two flanking, and one bringing up the rear. The King had clattered up to the ground with an escort of the 1st Life Guards, and now he was still guarded by a Sovereign’s Escort in the clouds. They weaved slow circles through the clouds, and later, far above them. They turned, crossed the City, and came back, keeping a ceaseless watch over the King, and ready to give warning of the approach of any danger in the air.
Then there was a long list of Military Medals. Often the men were lame, often they were maimed or had lost an arm; but whoever they were and of whatever rank the onlookers applauded them heartfully. A murmur ran round the crowd once, for an orderly was loading a blind man to the King’s presence. It was Corporal Albert Mason, in mufti, for he is a soldier no longer, but he won the Military Medal when in the London Regiment. He was halted in front of the King, who spoke to him for some time and reached down and grasped the wounded man’s hand.
The nurses to be decorated were cheered loudly as they curtseyed to the King. They looked more than picturesque in their different uniforms, for although there were but 10 of them they represented Britain, Canada, Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand. The wounded men sitting on the grass cheered each one, with the remembrance of the women who watched over them and made whole men of them again.
Mr George Cates, father of Second Lieutenant George Cates, VC, late Rifle Brigade, received his son decoration. Lieutenant Cates it was who put his foot on a bomb which was about to burst. He gave his own life, but he saved the lives of his comrades. A Scottish mother, Mrs Elizabeth Erskine, took her son’s Victoria Cross from the hands of the King with the sure knowledge that it was well won when Sergeant John Erskine shielded they body of his officer with his own and brought him into safety. It was a widow next, Mrs Lilian Mottershead, whose husband, Sergeant Thomas Mottershead, VC, Royal Flying Corps, died of burns after bringing back his blazing aeroplane and saving the life of his observer.
One of the decorations will be long remembered by all who saw the ceremony. Private James Fynn, VC, late of the South Wales Borderers, performed a dozen deeds of heroism at Sanna-i-yat in Mesopotamia, when he bandaged wounded men under continuous fire. He was killed over a year afterwards in Mesopotamia, and on Saturday his father, Private John Fynn, was present to receive the Victoria Cross. He was an old man, and his hair was grey, but he was young in body and mind and brisk in his step, and his salute as he approached and left the dais amidst rousing cheers. It would surely be a fine thing if Fynn was allowed to wear his son’s VC.
The line of women in black filed slowly up before his Majesty, and each came away with the medal and many memories.
Then the band formed up, and the King left though a line of cheering people. The men who had been decorated gave three well-timed and deep-voiced cheers for their Sovereign and sat down and waiting until the crowd thinned, and in the back row of seats women waited, each holding tightly a disc of metal or a cross with a coloured ribbon attached - the best heirloom of any that a soldier’s wife or mother may hand down to her children’s children.
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/eleven-vcs-and-bar-to-captain-chavasses-cross-rj0630pl6?CMP=TNLEmail_118918_1913566
Eleven VCs and bar to Captain Chavasse’s cross
He won his VC for bravery in searching for and attending to wounded under fire
September 15, 1917
The King has been pleased to approve of the award of a Bar to the Victoria Cross to Capt. Noel Godfrey Chavasse, VC, MC, late RAMC, attd. L’pool R. For conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty when in action. Though severely wounded early in the action whilst carrying a wounded soldier to the Dressing Station, Capt Chavasse refused to leave his post, and for two days not only continued to perform his duties, but in addition went out repeatedly under heavy fire to search for and attend to the wounded who were lying out. During these searches, although practically without food during this period, worn with fatigue and faint with his wound, he assisted to carry in a number of badly wounded men, over heavy and difficult ground. By his extraordinary energy and inspiring example he was instrumental in rescuing many wounded who would have otherwise undoubtedly succumbed under the bad weather conditions. This devoted and gallant officer subsequently died of his wounds.
The King has been pleased to approve of the award of the Victoria Cross to the following Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers, and Men:
Lt.-Col (T./Brig-Gen.) Clifford Coffin, DSO, RE.
For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty. When his command was held up in attack owing to heavy machine-gun and rifle fire from front and right flank, and was establishing itself in a forward shell hole line, he went forward and made an inspection of his front posts. Though under the heaviest fire from both machine-guns and rifles, and in full view of the enemy, he showed an utter disregard of personal danger, walking quietly from shell holo to shell hole, giving advice generally, and cheering the men by his presence. His very gallant conduct had the greatest effect on all ranks, and it was largely owing to his personal courage and example that the shell hole line was held in spite of the very heaviest fire. Throughout the day his calm courage and cheerfulness exercised the greatest influence over all with whom he came in contact, and it is generally agreed that Brigadier-General Coffin’s splendid example saved the situation, and had it not been for his action the line would certainly have been driven back.
Lt. John Reginald Noble Graham, Arg. and Suthd. Highrs, attd MGC.
For most conspicuous bravery, coolness, and resource when in command of a Machine Gun Section. Lt Graham accompanied his guns across open ground, under very heavy rifle and machine gun fire, and when his men became casualties, he assisted in carrying the ammunition. Although twice wounded he continued during the advance to control his guns and was able, with one gun, to open an accurate fire on the enemy, who were massing for a counter-attack. This gun was put out of action by the enemy’s rifle fire, and he was again wounded. The advancing enemy forced him to retire, but before doing so he further disabled his gun, rendering it useless. He then brought a Lewis gun into action with excellent effect till all the ammunition was expended. He was again severely wounded, and forced through loss of blood to retire. His valour and skilful handling of his guns held up a strong counter-attack which threatened to roll up the left flank of the Brigade, and thus averted what might have been a very critical situation.
Sec. Lt. Dents George Wyldbore Hewitt, late Hamps. R.
For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty when in command of a company in attack. When his first objective had been captured he re-organized the company and moved forward towards his objective. While waiting for the barrage to lift he was hit by a piece of shell, which exploded the signal lights in his haversack, and set fire to his equipment and clothes. Having extinguished the flames, in spite of his wound and the severe pain he was suffering, he led forward the remains of the company under very heavy machine gun fire, and captured and consolidated his objective. He was subsequently killed by a sniper, while inspecting the consolidation and encouraging his men. This gallant officer set a magnificent example of coolness and contempt of danger to the whole Battalion, and it was due to. his splendid leading that the final objective of his Battalion was gained.
No. R.2794 Sgt. Edward Cooper, KRRC (Stockton).
For most conspicuous bravery and initiative in attack. Enemy machine guns from a concrete blockhouse, 250 yards away, were holding up the advance of the battalion on his left, and were also causing heavy casualties to his own battalion. Sgt Cooper, with four men, immediately rushed towards the blockhouse, though heavily fired on. About 100 yards distant he ordered his men to lie down and fire at the blockhouse. Finding this did not silence the machine guns, he immediately rushed forward straight at them and fired his revolver into an opening in the blockhouse. The machine guns ceased firing and the garrison surrendered. Seven machine guns and 45 prisoners were captured in this blockhouse. By this magnificent act of courage he undoubtedly saved what might have been a serious check to the whole advance, at the same time saving a great number of lives.
No. 265473 Sgt. Alexander Edwards, Sea. Highrs. (Lossiemouth).
For most conspicuous bravery in attack, whon having located a hostile machine gun in a wood, he, with great dash and courage, led some men against it, killed all the team, and captured the gun. Later, when a sniper was causing casualties, he crawled out to stalk him, and although badly wounded in the arm, went on and killed him. One officer only was now left with the company, and, realizing that the success of the operation depended on the capture of the furthest objective, Sgt.. Edwards, regardless of his wound, led his men on till this objective was captured. He subsequently showed great skill in consolidating his position, and very great daring in personal reconnaissance. Although again twice wounded on the following day, this very gallant NCO maintained throughout a complete disregard for personal safety, and his high example of coolness and determination engendered a fine fighting spirit in his men.
No. 13531 Sgt. (acting CQ.MS.) William H. Grimbaldeston, KO Sco. Bord. (Blackburn).
For most conspicuous bravery in attack. Noticing that the unit on his left was held up by enemy machine gun fire from a blockhouse, though wounded, he collected a small party to fire rifle grenades on this blockhouse. He then got a volunteer to assist him with rifle fire. ln spite of very heavy fire from the blockhouse he pushed on towards it, and made for the entrance, from which he threatened with a hand grenade the machine gun teams inside the blockhouse. These he forced to surrender one after another. The extraordinary courage and boldness of CQMS. Grimbaldeston resulted in his capturing 36 prisoners, six machine guns, and one trench mortar, and enabled the whole line to continue its advance.
No. 20002 Sgt. Ivor Rees, S. Wales Bord. (Lianelly).
For most conspicuous bravery in attack. A hostile machine gun opened fire at close range, inflicting many casualties. Leading his platoon forward by short rushes, Sergeant Rees gradually worked his way round the right flank to the rear of the gun position. When he was about 20 yards from the machine gun he rushed forward towards the team, shot one, and bayoneted another. He then bombed the large concrete emplacement, killing five, and capturing 30 prisoners, of whom two were officers, in addition to an undamaged machino gun.
No. 6895 Sgt. (Actg. C.S.-M.) John Skinner, KO Sco. Bord. (Pollokshields, Glasgow).
For most conspicuous bravery and good leading. Whilst his company was attacking, machine gun fire opened on the left flank, delaying the advance. Although CSM Skinner was wounded in the head, he collected six men, and with great courage and determination worked round the left flank of three blockhouse from which the machine gun fire was coming, and succeeded in bombing and taking the first blockhouse singlehanded; then, leading his six men towards the other two blockhouses, he skilfully cleared them, taking sixty prisoners, three machine guns, and two trench mortars. The dash and gallantry displayed by this warrant officer enabled the objective to be reached and consolidated.
No. 2O017 Cpl. (L-Sgt.) Tom Fletcher Mayson, R Lanc. R. (Silecourt, Cumberland).
For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty when with the leading wave of the attack his platoon was held up by machine gun fire from a tank. Without waiting for orders, L Sgt. Mayson at once made for the gun, which he put out of action with bombs, wounding four of the team. The remaining three of the team fled, pursued by L Sgt. Mayson to a dugout, into which he followed them and disposed of them with his bayonet. Later, when clearing up a strong point, this non-commissioned officer again tackled a machine gun single-handed, killing six of the team. Finally, during an enemy counter-attack, he took charge of an isolated post, and successfully held it till ordered to withdraw as his ammunition was exhausted. He displayed throughout the most remarkable valour and initiative.
No. 13303 Pte. Wilfrid Edwards, KO York. LI (Leeds).
For most conspicuous bravery whon under ,heavy machine gun and rifle fire from a strong concrete fort. Having lost all his company officers, without hesitation he dashed forward at great personal risk, bombed through the loopholes, surmounted the fort, and waved to his company to advance. By his splendid example he saved a most critical situation at a time when the whole battalion was held up and a leader urgently needed. Three officers and thirty other ranks were taken prisoner by him in the fort. Later, Pte. Edwards did most valuable work as a runner, and he eventually guided most of the battalion out through very difficult ground. Throughout he set a splendid personal example to all, and was utterly regardless of danger.
No. 16805 Pte. Arnold Loosemore, W. Rid. R. (Sheffield).
For most conspicuous bravery, and initiative during the attack on a strongly-held enemy position. His platoon having been checked by heavy machine-gun fire, he crawled through partially cut wire, dragging his Lewis gun with him, and single-handed dealt with a strong party of the enemy, killing about twenty of them, and thus covering the consolidation of the position taken up by his platoon. Immediately afterwards his Lewis gun was blown up by a bomb, and three enemy rushed for him, but he shot them all with his revolver. Later, he shot several enemy snipers, exposing himself to heavy fire each time. On returning to the original post he also brought back a wounded comrade under heavy fire at the risk of his life. He displayed throughout an utter disregard of danger.
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