The Times History of the War - VCs of the War, 8

VCs of the War, 8

This week's chapter explores three commanding officers, engineers' fine deeds, crosses for courageous runners, farmhouse fights, territorials' exploits, back to Le Cateau, two Leinster regiments, saving the wounded, the Lancashire Fusiliers, a company sergeant-major, oversea soldiers and the cross, the Australian Imperial force, officers' fine acts, three posthumous honours, NCOs and privates, attacks on machine-gun posts, a bomber in a German trench, men from Ontario, an Army surgeon's cross, a wounded fighter, Lieut Lyall's great deeds, more Canadian heroes, further crosses for Zeebrugge, the decoration as a fighting barometer, a case of non-award, an analysis of the total awards

Four runners in succession having been killed in trying to deliver a message to a supporting company during the attack on Marou on October 20, Private Alfred Wilkinson, 1/5th Battalion Manchester Regiment (TF), volunteered for the desperate duty. The journey which he undertook involved exposure to extremely heavy machine-gun and shell fire for 600 yards, yet he managed to escape all perils and to deliver the message

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Bill Speakman, VC, fought off enemy onslaught in Korea – obituary

Bill Speakman

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/obituaries/2018/06/21/bill-speakman-vc-fought-enemy-onslaught-korea-obituary/

Sergeant Bill Speakman, who has died aged 90, won the Victoria Cross on November 4 1951 as a private with the King’s Own Scottish Borderers during the Korean War.

From 4  o’clock on the morning of November 4, on Hill 217, north-west of Yonchon, the defensive positions held by 1st Battalion, The King’s Own Scottish Borderers, had been subjected to heavy and accurate enemy shell and mortar fire.

Three companies of the KOSB, mustering at the most some 400 men, were dug in on the forward slopes of a narrow, arrow-shaped ridge facing down into a 1,500 ft-wide valley filled with rice fields and a scattered village – no-man’s-land – with the Chinese in the hills beyond. As the defenders made their preparations they could not know that some 6,000 Chinese had been ordered to retake the ridge and had selected their positions as the main objective for the attack.

100 Years Ago - Victoria Cross

AN ENEMY OBSERVATION BALLOON BROUGHT DOWN IN FLAMES.

PIPER JAMES RICHARDSON,

Late Manitoba Regt

MAJOR W. G. BARKER, R.A.F.

A "Q" SHIP,

Having a concealed gun in the collapsible boat between funnel and mast


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VCs for machine-gun exploits

After proceeding about 200 yards Piper Richardson remembered that he had left his pipes behind. Although strongly urged not to do so, he insisted on returning to recover his pipes. He has never been seen since

October 23, 1918

War Office, Oct 22. The King has been pleased to approve of the award of the Victoria Cross to the following Non-commissioned Officers, and Men.
No. 358 Sgt Thomas James Harris, MM, late RW Kent R (Lower Halling, Kent).
For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty in attack when the advance was much impeded by hostile machine-guns concealed in crops and shell-holes. Sgt Harris led his section against one of these, capturing it, and killing seven of the enemy. Later, on two successive occasions, he attacked single-handed two enemy machine guns which were causing heavy casualties and holding up the advance. He captured the first gun and killed the crew, but was himself killed when attacking the second one. It was largely due to the great courage and initiative of this gallant NCO that the advance of the battalion was continued without delay and undue casualties. Throughout the operations he showed a total disregard for his own personal safety, and set a magnificent example to all ranks.

No. 4/100 Sgt Samuel Forsyth, late NZ Engrs.
For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty in attack.4 On nearing the objective his company came under heavy machine-gun fire. Through Sgt Forsyth’s dashing leadership and total disregard of danger three machine-gun positions were rushed and the crews taken prisoner before they could inflict many casualties on our troops. During the subsequent advance his company came under heavy fire from several machine-guns, two of which he located by a daring reconnaissance. In his endeavour to gain support from a Tank he was wounded, but after having the wound bandaged he again got in touch with the Tank, which, in the face of very heavy fire from machine-guns and anti-Tank guns, he endeavoured to lead with magnificent coolness to a favourable position. The Tank, however, was put out of action. Sgt Forsyth then organized the Tank crew and several of his men into a section, and led them to a position where the machine-guns could be out-flanked. Always under heavy fire, he directed them into positions which brought about a retirement of the enemy machine-guns and enabled the advance to continue. This gallant NCO was at that moment killed by a sniper. From the commencement of the attack until the time of his death Sgt Forsyth’s courage and coolness, combined with great power of initiative, proved an invaluable incentive to all who were with him, and he undoubtedly saved many casualties among his comrades.

No. 51396 Cpl. (L/Sgt.) Edward Smith, DCM, Lan. Fus. (Maryport).
For most conspicuous bravery, leadership and personal example during an attack and in subsequent operations. Sgt Smith, while in command of a platoon, personally took a machine-gun post, rushing the garrison with his rifle and bayonet. The enemy, on seeing him advance, scattered to throw hand-grenades at him. Regardless of all danger, and, almost without halting in his rush on the post, this NCO shot and killed at least six of the enemy. Later, seeing another platoon requiring assistance, he led his men to them, took command of the situation, and captured the objective. During the enemy counter-attack on the following day he led a section forward and restored a portion of the line. His personal bravery, skill, and initiative were outstanding, and his conduct throughout exemplified magnificent courage and skill, and was an inspiring example to all.
No. 40684 Pte. (A./Sat.) Harold John Coley, MM, Late Lan Fus (Smethwlck).
For most conspicuous bravery and initiative when in command of a platoon in support of forward platoons which had been ordered to hold on at all costs. When the enemy counter-attacked in force, he rushed forward on his own initiative to help the forward line, rallying and controlling the men holding it. The enemy by this time were advancing quickly, and had already obtained a footing in the trench. Sgt Coley then formed a defensive flank and held it. Out of the two platoons only three men remained unwounded, and he himself was dangerously wounded. It was entirely due to Sgt Colley’s action that the enemy were prevented from breaking through, and were eventually driven off. His courage and tenacity saved a very critical situation.
No. 2S930 Pte. (Piper) James Richardson, late Manitoba R.
For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty when, prior to attack, he obtained permission from his Commanding Officer to play his company - “over the top”. As the company approached the objective, it was held up by very strong wire, and came under intense fire, which caused heavy casualties and demoralized the formation for the moment. Realizing the situation, Piper Richardson strode up and down outside the wire, playing his pipes with the greatest coolness. The effect was instantaneous. Inspired by his splendid example the company rushed the wire with such fury and determination that the obstacle was overcome and the position captured. Later, after participating in bombing operations he was detailed to take back a wounded comrade and prisoners. After proceeding about 200 yards Piper Richardson remembered that he had left his pipes behind. Although strongly urged not to do so, he insisted on returning to recover his pipes. He has never been seen since, and death has been presumed accordingly owing to lapse of time.

100 Years Ago - Victoria Cross

CAPTA.IN PATON SAVES HIS POSITION

SERGT. NICHOLAS, N.Z. INF., LEAVES THE PALACE

LIEUT. McLEOD ON THE LOWER PLANE OF A HURNING MACHINE

LIEUT.·COLONEL SHERWOOD.KELLY, C.M.G., D.S.O.,

Shows his Cross to some friends.


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A dying officer’s rallying cry, ‘Come on the Tigers’

Capt Gee, finding himself a prisoner, killed one of the enemy with his spiked stick, and succeeded in escaping

January 12, 1918

The King has been pleased to approve of the award of the Victoria Cross to the following Officers, Non-commissioned Officers, and Men, for most conspicuous bravery:
Maj (A/Lt-Col) John Sherwood-Kelly, CMG, DSO, Norf. R, comd. a Bn, R Innis Fus. for most conspicuous bravery and fearless leading when a party of men of another unit, detailed to cover the passage of the canal by his battalion were held up on the near side of the canal by heavy rifle fire directed on the bridge. Lt.-Col. Sherwood-Kelly at once ordered covering fire, personally IYI the leading company of his battalion across the canal and, after crossing, reconnoitred under heavy rifle and machine-gun fire the high ground held by the enemy. The left flank of his battalion advancing to the assault of this objective was held up by a thick belt of wire, whereupon he crossed to that flank, and, with a Lewis gun team, forced his way under heavy fire through obstacles, got the gun into position on the far side, and covered the advance of his battalion through the wire, thereby enabling them to capture the position. Later, he personally lead a charge against some pits from which a heavy fire was being directed on his men, captured the pits, together with five machine-guns and forty-six prisoners, and killed a large number of the enemy. The great gallantry displayed by this officer throughout the day inspired the greatest confidence In his men, and it was mainly due to his example and devotion to duty that his battalion was enabled to capture and hold their objective.

100 Years Ago - VCs

SKIPPER JOSEPH WATT

RECIPIENTS OF THE VICTORIA CROSS IN lHE COURTYARD OF BUCKINGHAM PALACE, SEPTEMBER 26, 1917,

Photographed as the King departed. The men are wearing their crosses.

Left to right: Mrs. Ackroyd, 'Lieutenant InsalI, R.F.C., Sergeant Bye, Sergeant Cooper. Sergeant Edwards (Seaforths), Sergeant Rees, Private Edwards (K.O.Y.L.I.),

Private Ratcliffe. Company Sergeant-Major Skinner.

SERGEANT (Acting C.S.M.) JOHN SKINNER, King's Own Scottish Borderers, receives his Cross

BRIGADIER-GENERAL CLIFFORD COFFIN LEAVING BUCKINGHAM PALACE AFTER RECEIVING THE VICTORIA CROSS

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Public investiture by the King

When the widow and little son of Captain Harold Ackroyd, RAMC, were presented to his Majesty, the cheers of the spectators were loud and prolonged

September 9, 1917

The King held a public Investiture of the Victoria Cross in the forecourt of Buckingham Palace yesterday. Large numbers of the public had a good view of the ceremony from outside the groat sweep of railings of the forecourt and the high steps and terrace of the Victoria Memorial.
The forecourt was flooded with sunshine when at a quarter to 12 o’clock the King came out of the Palace, wearing the uniform of a Field-Marshal and attended his Staff. Drawn up in line with the Palace was a guard of honour supplied by the Grenadier Guards, with the hand of the regiment. The soldiers who were to receive the decoration were seated on chairs to the right. The King, with his Staff, stood in the centre of the forecourt, facing the Colour of the Grenadier Guards, which was carried in front of the guard of honour.
As each recipient of the Victoria Cross was presented to his Majesty the official account of his valour was read by an officer. Neither the name nor a word of the record could he heard by the public outside the railings, but they heartily cheered and clapped their hands all the same, well knowing that each story was one that might most fittingly be proclaimed in trumpet tones to listening London. The King pinned the Victoria Cross on each hero’s breast, and, having held him in conversation for a few moments, warmly shook him by the hand.
When at the end the widow and little son of Captain Harold Ackroyd, RAMC, were presented to his Majesty, and the widow received her husband’s Victoria Cross, the cheers of tts spectators were particularly loud and prolonged. In this instance the Military Cross had also been bestowed, and it was handed by the King to the little boy.
The names and exploits of the recipients of the decoration are given in full detail in the Court Circular in page 9. At the private investiture which took place in the Palace before the outdoor ceremony Military Crosses were presented by the King to three brothers - Captain R M Blofeld, Trench Mortar Battery, and Lieutenant H Blofeld, Royal Flying Corps, the former receiving the Cross awarded to his brother, Second Lieutenant Dudley Blofeld, London Regiment, who was killed in action on the Somme. Mr H Blofeld, The Woodlands, Sydenham-hill, SE, their father, has a fourth son, Second Lieutenant B L Blofeld, Royal Flying Corps, who has been at the front in France since January.

ORDER OF THE EMPIRE

The King will hold today the first Investiture on a large scale in connexion with the Order of the British Empire. A few of those admitted were invested in Scotland, but today practically all the remaining members will attend, and the number is estimated to be about 230. The function will begin at 10.30 and should be over by about noon. The Queen, who is a Dame Grand Cross of the Order, will be invested privately. Various members of the Royal Family are likely to be present to-day and the Home Secretary will attend.

100 Years Ago - VC crosses

PRIVATES ERN EST SYKES, Northumberland Fusiliers, (left), and MICHAEL HEAVISIDE Durham Light Infantry

CAPTAIN ALBERT BALL, R.F.C With the propeller and nose of his machine

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


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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.

100 Years Ago - VCs

V.C.'S AT THE PRESENT A TION IN HYDE PARK, JUNE 2, 1917.

In khaki, left to right: Private Hughes, Private Cunn:ngham, Capt. White, Col. Bradford,

Lieut. Palmer, and Capt. Alien.

MRS. MOTTERSHEAD RECEIVES FROM THE KING THE V.C. WON BY HER

HUSBAND, SERGEANT THOMAS MOTTERSHEAD, R.F.C.

BT. MAJ. WM. LA TOUCHE CONGREVE,

D.S.O., M.C., Rifle Brigade

SERGT. W. E. BOULTER,

Northamptonshire Regt., receiving the congratulations of his friends


http://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/the-king-and-his-brave-subjects-qzlgb539t

The King and his brave subjects

A widow came next to take the Victoria Cross from the hands of the King, 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

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 predominates. 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 made 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.