GABY, Alfred Edward. (reg No. 436).
Lieutenant. 28th Battalion, (Western Australia) Australian Imperial
Force.
London Gazetted on 30th October 1918.
Born on 25th January, 1892 at Springfield, Tasmania.
Died on 11th August, 1918 at Villers-Bretonneux, France (killed
in action).
Memorial at Heath Cemetery, Harbonnieres, France and on the Australian
War Memorial, Canberra, Australia.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 8th August, 1918 at Villers-Bretonneux, France, when the advance
was checked by a large force of the enemy about 40 yards beyond
the wire, Lieutenant Gaby found a gap and approached the strong
point under heavy machine gun and rifle fire. He emptied his revolver
into the garrison, drove the crews from their guns and captured
50 prisoners and four machine-guns. Three days later, while leading
his men during an attack, he was killed.
GAJE GHALE.(Reg.No.437)
Havildar* (later Hon. Captain) 2nd Battalion 5th Gurkha Rifles,
Indian Army
London Gazetted on 30th September 1943
Born on 1st July 1922 at Borpak, a village in the Gorkha District
of Nepal.
No record of death.
Digest of Citation reads:
During the period 24/27th May 1943 in the Chin Hills, Burma, Havildar
Gaje Ghale was in charge of a platoon of young soldiers engaged
in attacking a strong Japanese position, Wounded in the arm, chest
and leg he nevertheless continued to lead assault after assault,
encouraging his men by shouting the Gurkha's battle-cry. Spurred
on by the irresistable will of their leader, the platoon stormed
and captured the position which the havildar then held and consolidated
under heavy fire, refusing to go to the Regimental Aid Post until
ordered to do so.
*Havildar = Sergeant.
GANJU LAMA. (Reg.No.438)
Rifleman (later Hon. Captain.) 1st Battalion 7th Gurkha Rifles
Indian Army
London Gazetted on 7th September 1944
Born on 7th July 1922 at Samgmo Busty, Sikkim.
No record of death.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 12 June 1944 at Ninthoukhong, Burma, 'B' company was attempting
to stem the enemy's advance when it came under heavy machine-gun
and tank machine-gun fire. Rifleman Ganju Lama, with complete
disregard for his own safety, took his Piat gun and crawling forward
succeeded in bringing the gun into action within 30 yards of the
enemy tanks, knocking out two of them. Despite a broken wrist
and two other serious wounds to his right and left hands he then
moved forward and engaged the tank crew who were trying to escape.
Not until he had accounted for all of them did he consent to have
his wounds dressed.
Additional information: Also awarded the Military Medal. He was
PD; He was Honorary Life Aide de Camp to the President of India
as well as being the overseas VC and GC Association Chairman from
1991 to the present day.
GARDINER, George. (reg No. 439).
Sergeant. 57th Regiment (Middlesex Regiment, ( Duke of Cambridge's
Own).
London Gazetted on 2nd June 1858.
Born on in 1821 at Gelwallen, Warrenpoint, County Down, Ireland.
Died on 17th November 1891 at a Lifford, County Donegal, Ireland.
Memorial on grave at Lifford Cemetery, County Donegal, Ireland.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 22nd March, 1855 at Sebastopol, Crimea, Sergeant Gardiner acted
with great gallantry upon the occasion of a sortie by the enemy,
in having rallied the covering parties which had been driven in
by the Russians, thus regaining the trenches. On 18th June during
the attack on the Redan he himself remained and encouraged others
to remain in the holes made by the explosions of the shells, and
from whence they were able to keep up a continuous fire until
their ammunition was exhausted, and the enemy cleared away from
the Parapet.
Additional information:. Colour-Sergeant Gardiner also held the
Distinguished Conduct Medal. (DCM).
GARDNER, Philip John. (reg No. 440).
Captain. Royal Tank Regiment, RAC.
London Gazetted on 10th February, 1942.
Born on 25th December 1914 at Sydenham, London.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 23rd November, 1941 at Tobruk, Libya, Captain Gardner took
two tanks to the rescue of two armoured cars of the King's Dragoon
Guards, which were out of action and under heavy attack. Whilst
one tank gave covering fire the captain dismounted from the other,
hitched a tow rope to one of the cars, then lifted into it an
officer, both of whose legs had been blown off. The tow rope broke,
so Captain Gardner returned to the armoured car, but was immediately
wounded in the arm and leg. Despite this he managed to transfer
the wounded man to the second tank and returned to British lines
through intense shellfire.
Additional information:. Captain Gardner also held the Military
Cross.(MC).
Observers of Captain Gardner's action on the battlefield were
confident that this bravery, in saving the life of the wounded
man, was worthy of the Decoration of the Victoria Cross.
GARDNER, William. (reg No. 441).
Colour-Sergeant. 42nd Regiment.*
London Gazetted on 23rd August, 1858.
Born on 3rd March, 1821 at Nemphlar, Lanarkshire, Scotland.
Died on 24th October, 1897 at Bothwell, Lanarkshire, Scotland.
Memorial on grave at Bothwell Park Cemetery, Lanarkshire, Scotland.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 1st May, 1858 at Bareilly, India, Colour-Sergeant Gardner saved
the life of Lieutenant Cameron commanding officer who, during
the fighting at Bareilly, had been knocked from his horse, when
three fanatics rushed to attack him. Colour Sergeant Gardner ran
out and promptly bayoneted two of them and was in the act of attacking
the third when he was shot down and killed by another member of
his Regiment.
* Black Watch .
Additional information: Sergeant-Major Gardner also held the MSM.
The above record came through a letter from Captain McPherson
of the 42nd Regiment to Lieutenant Col Cameron, the Commanding
Officer of the 42nd.(Who's life Gardner saved)
GARFORTH, Charles Ernest. (reg No. 442)
Corporal. 15th Hussars (The King's).
London Gazetted on 16th November, 1914.
Born on 23rd October, 1891 at Willesden Green, London.
Died on 1st July 1973 at Beeston, Nottingham.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 23rd August, 1914 at Harmingnies, France, Corporal Garforth
volunteered to cut wire under fire, which enables his squadron
to escape. On 2nd September when under constant fire, he extricated
a sergeant who was lying under his dead horse, and carried him
to safety. The next day, when another sergeant had lost his horse
in a similar way, Corporal Garforth drew off the enemy fire and
enabled the sergeant to get away.
GARLAND, Donald Edward. (reg No. 443).
Flying Officer. 12 Squadron, Royal Air Force.
London Gazetted on 11th June 1940.
Born on 20th June 1918 at Ballinacor, County Wicklow, Ireland.
Died on 12th May, 1940 at Maastricht, Holland. (killed in action).
Memorial at Heverlee War Cemetery, Louvain, Belgium.
VCs Medal's Custodian is the RAF Museum, Hendon, London.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 12th May, 1940 over the Albert Canal, Belgium, one bridge in
particular was being used by the invading army, with protection
from fighter aircraft, anti-aircraft and machine guns. The RAF
was ordered to demolish this vital bridge, and five Fairey Battle
bombers were dispatched with Flying Officer Garland leading the
attack. They met an inferno of anti-aircraft fire, but the mission
was accomplished, due to the expert leadership of Flying Officer
Garland and the coolness and resource of his Navigator *. Only
one bomber managed to get back to base, the leading aircraft and
three others did not return.
* T. Gray. (reg No. 484).
GARVIN, Stephen. (reg No.444).
Colour-Sergeant 1st Battalion 60th Rifles ( The King's Royal Rifle
Corps.)
London Gazetted on 20th June 1860.
Born on in 1826(Actual date not known)at Cashel, Co Tipperary,
Ireland.
Died on 23rd November 1874 at Chesterton, Oxfordshire.
Grave not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 23 June 1857 at Delhi, India, Colour Sergeant Garvin volunteered
to lead a small party of men under heavy fire to the 'Sammy House'
in order to dilodge a number of the enemy who were keeping up
a destructive fire on the advanced battery of heavy guns. This
action was successful. Colour Sergeant Garvin was also commended
for gallant conduct throughout the operations before Delhi.
Further information: It is very likely that his name will be on
the memorial to the KRRC at Winchester Cathedral.
GEARY, Benjamin Handley. (reg No. 445).
Second Lieutenant. 4th Battalion, East Surrey Regiment. (attached
to 1st Battalion).
London Gazetted on 15th October, 1915.
Born on 29th June 1891 at Marylebone, London.
Died on 26th May 1976 at Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
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 expose 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.
Additional information:. Major Geary, in 1926, served as Chaplain
to the Forces. During the Second World War he served with the
Canadian Army.
GEE, Robert. (reg No. 446).
Captain. 2nd Battalion, Royal Fusiliers.
London Gazetted on 11th January 1918.
Born on 7th May 1876 at Leicester.
Died on 2nd August 1960 at Perth, Western Australia.
Memorial on the Fountain at War Veterans House, Perth, Western
Australia.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 30th November 1917 at Masnieres and Les Rues Vertes, France,
an attack by the enemy captured Brigade Headquarters and a munitions
dump. Captain Gee, finding himself a prisoner, managed to escape
and organised a party of the brigade staff with which he attacked
the enemy, closely followed by two companies of Infantry. He cleared
the locality and established a defensive flank, then finding an
enemy machine gun still in action, with a revolver in each hand,
he went forward and captured the gun, killing eight of the crew.
He was wounded, but would not have his wound dressed until the
defence was organised.
Additional information:. Captain Gee also held the Military Cross
(MC).
GIAN SINGH. (reg No. 447).
Naik * 15th Punjab Regiment, Indian Army.
London Gazetted on 22nd May, 1945.
Born on 5th October 1920 at Shapur, Jullundur, Punjab.
Died on 6th October 1996 at Jullundur, Punjab.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 2nd March, 1945 on the road between Kamye and Myingyan, Burma,
where the Japanese were strongly positioned, Naik Gian Singh who
was in charge of the leading section of his platoon, went on alone
firing his Tommy gun, and rushed enemy foxholes. In spite of being
wounded in the arm he went on, hurling grenades. He attacked and
killed the crew of a cleverly concealed anti-tank gun, and then
led his men down a lane clearing all enemy positions. He went
on to leading the section until the action had been satisfactorily
completed.
* Corporal
Additional information:. Naik Gian Singh also held the PVSM of
India.
GIBSON, Guy Penrose. (Reg.No. 448)
Wing Commander 617 Squadron Royal Air Force
London Gazetted on 28th May 1943
Born on12th August 1918 at Simla, India.
Died on 9th September 1944 near Bergen-op-Zoom, Holland
Buried in Steenbergen-en-Kruisland Roman Catholic Church.
VCs Medal's Custodian is the RAF Museum, Hendon, London.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 16/17 May 1943 over Germany, Wing Commander Gibson led the
raid on the Mohne Dam, descending to within a few feet of the
water and taking the full brunt of the enemy defences. He delivered
his attack with great accuracy and afterwards circled very low
for 30 minutes, drawing the enemy fire on himself in order to
leave as free a run as possible to the following aircraft. He
then led the remainder of his force to the Eder Dam where with
complete disregard for his own safety he repeated his tactics
and once again drew the enemy fire so that the attack could be
successfully developed.
Additional information: 19 Lancasters took part in the raid. Only
eight returned. Gibson had, apart from the VC, the DSO and Bar,
DFC and Bar and The American Legion of Merit.
Wing Commander Gibson had made raids on his so called 'rest nights'.
He made a single handed attack on Tirpitz, the German battleship
lying in Wilhelmshaven.
He was only 25 when he led the raid on the dams. He begged 'Bomber
Harris' for 'one last sortie' and it did indeed turn out to be
his last. His final words, were to his accompanying aircraft crews
by radio, "Nice work chaps, now beat it home." His Mosquito
crashed in flames. His body was never identified until the end
of the war and he was buried with honours at Steenbergen-en-Kruisland,
Holland.
.
GIFFORD The Lord Edric Frederick (Reg. No. 449)
Lieutenant (later Major) 2nd Battn. 24th Regiment.(later South
Wales Borderers)
Date of Gazette 28th March 1874.
Born on 5th July at Ropley, Hampshire..
Died on 5th June 1911 at Chichester, Sussex.
Memorials at Bosham Church and Bosham Burial Ground, Sussex; Harrow
School and Salisbury Cathedral, Rhodesia.
.Additional Informaton: Uncle of Captain J.F.P. Butler; Colonial
Secretary for Western Australia and Senior Member Legislative
Council 1880-83; Colonial Secretary for Gibralter 1883-88.
Digest of Citation reads:
: During the 1873-74 Ashanti Campaign, Lieutenant Lord Gifford
was in charge of Scouts after the Army had crossed the Prah, and
he daily took his life in his hands, performing his dangerous
duties. He ferreted out the enemy's intentions, discovered their
positions and took numerous prisoners. His courage was particularly
conspicuous at the taking of Becquah, into which he penetrated
with his scouts before the troops carried it.
Born on Edric Frederick Gifford on the 5th July 1849, he was
the eldest son of the 2nd Baron Gifford, Robert Francis and his
wife the Honourable Frederica Charlotte Fitzhardinge, eldest daughter
of the 1st Baron Fitzhardinge. After being educated at Harrow,
he joined the Army in 1869.
In 1872, the same year that he succeeded his father as the 3rd
Baron Gifford, he became a lieutenant in the 63rd Regiment. The
following year he transferred to the 24th Regiment, later to become
the South Wales Borderers.
After the Army had crossed the Prah, in the Ashanti Wars, he was
put in charge of Scouts, where he and his men showed great courage
and devotion to duty. They made daily reconnaissances into enemy
territory seeking intelligence on their positions and intentions.
With no other men with him he captured several prisoners. He was
put forward by Sir Garnet Wolsely for his conspicuous gallantry
on his penetration of Becqah, with his scouts, before the troops
actually took it For these actions he was awarded the Victoria
Cross and was personally presented with it by Her Majesty Queen
Victoria, in April 1874, at a review in Windsor Park.
He was promoted to Captain, in 1876, in the 57th Regiment and
three years later, in 1879, he was in Africa as the Zulu war was
coming to an end. They had been searching for the Zulu King, Cetshwayo
and had trailed him for fifteen days, ending in the Ngome forest.
Here, in a small insignificant kraal, the chief had taken refuge.
Cetshwayo had led the attack on the British at Isandhlwana and
massacred them. The Commander in Chief, Lord Chelmsford, was away
on a reconnaissance expedition at the time. Whilst he surveyed
the disastrous damage at the battle site another attack was taking
place at a small Swedish mission known as Rorke's Drift against
a small body of British troops under the command of Lieutenants
Chard and Bromhead. Eleven Victoria Crosses were won that Day.
As Gifford's men were exhausted, he decided to wait for nightfall
before entering the kraal to capture the warrior. As they rested
more troops arrived under the command of Major Marter. He decided
to march straight into the hideout and catch Cetshwayo, which
he did. The proud Chief was dishevelled and weary, his thighs
sore, from continuous travelling trying to avoid capture. He gave
up without a struggle.
Lord Gifford was promoted to Brevet Major in the 1st Battalion,
The Middlesex Regiment in 1880. After this, he served as Colonial
Secretary for Western Australia and Senior Member of the Legislative
Council from 1880-83 and as Colonial Secretary for Gibralter from
1883-88.
Lord Gifford Died on the 5th of June 1911 in Chichester, Sussex.
He was given full military honours for his funeral. The path to
Bosham Church was lined with Boy Scouts and The Last Post'
was sounded by a bugler from the Royal Sussex Regiment. He was
buried in the little graveyard a short way from the church.
He is remembered by his school, Harrow, where his name is on a
memorial. A Plaque, to his memory, is on the wall inside the picturesque
village church at Bosham and his grave has a stone laying above.
Footnote. The grave was damaged by the storm in 1987 when a tree
fell nearby.. Workmen, burning the tree set the fire too close
to Lord Gifford's grave causing the stone to split and crumble
away at the edges.
GILL, Albert. (reg No. 450).
Sergeant. 1st Battalion, King's Royal Rifle Corps.
London Gazetted on 26th October, 1916.
Born on 8th September 1879 at Birmingham.
Died on 27th July 1916 at Delville Wood, France
Memorials at Delville Wood Cemetery, France and on King's Royal
Rifle Corps Memorial, Winchester Cathedral.
On 27th July 1916 at Delville Wood, France, the enemy made a very
strong counter-attack on the right flank of the Battalion and
rushed the bombing post after killing all the company bombers.
Sergeant Gill rallied the remnants of his platoon, none of whom
were skilled bombers, and reorganised his defences. Soon afterwards
the enemy nearly surrounded his men and started sniping at about
20 yards range. Although it was almost certain death, Sergeant
Gill stood boldly up in order to direct the fire of his men. He
was killed almost at once, but his gallant action held up the
enemy advance.
GILL, Peter. (Reg No. 451).
Sergeant-Major. Loodiana Regiment.
London Gazetted on 23rd August 1858.
Born on in September 1831 at St Paul's, Dublin.
Died on 26th July, 1868 at Moror, Gwalior, India.
Memorial on plaque in Christ Church CP Colony, Moror, Gwalior,
MP, India.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 4th June, 1857 at the Benares, India, Sergeant-Major Gill volunteered,
with another sergeant major and a private * to rescue a paymaster
and his family from their bungalow and take them to the safety
of the barracks. During the same evening he saved the life of
a quartermaster sergeant by cutting off the head of the sepoy
who had just bayoneted him. He is also said to have twice saved
the life of a major who was being attacked by sepoys.
* M. Rosamund (reg No. 1082) and John Kirk (reg No. 700).
Additional information:. Sergeant Major Gill volunteered along
with sergeant-major Rosamund of the 37th Regiment, Bengal Light
Infantry to bring in Captain Brown, Paymaster, and his family,
from a detached bungalow in. He saved the life of a quartermaster
sergeant a of the 25th Regiment, Bengal Light Infantry. On the
same night, it is said, that armed only with a sergeant's sword
he faced a guard of 27 men. It is also said that he twice saved
the life of Major Barrett, of the 27th Regiment, Bengal Light
Infantry when he was being attacked by sepoys on his own regiment.
GLASOCK, Horace Henry. (reg No. 452).
Driver. 'Q ' Battery, Royal Horse Artillery.
London Gazetted on 26th June, 1900.
Born on 16th October, 1880 at Islington, London.
Died on 13th February, 1920 in South Africa.
Memorial at grave in Maitland Cemetery, Cape Town, South Africa.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 31st March 1900 at Korn Spruit, South Africa, two batteries
of the Royal Horse Artillery were ambushed with the loss of most
of the baggage column and five guns of the leading battery. When
the alarm was given 'Q' battery went into action 1150 yards from
the spruit, until the order to retire was received, when the major
* Commanding the battery ordered the guns and their limbers to
be run back by hand to a safe place. This most exhausting co-operation
was carried out by, among others, Driver Glasock, a sergeant*
and a Gunner * and when at last all but one of the guns and one
limber had been moved to safety, the battery was reformed.
* Along with Driver Glasock three other Victoria Crosses were
awarded by ballot. See also E J Hornby (reg No. 595) C.E.H. Parker
(reg No 962 ) and I. Lodge (reg No. 749)
William (later GOATE)(reg. No 453)
Lance Corporal 9th Lancers (Became The Queen's Royal).
London Gazetted on 24th December 1858
VC Medal's Custodian is 9th/12 Lancers Museum, The Strand,
DERBY.
Born on: 12th Jan 1836 at Long Stratton, Norfolk.
Died on: 24th October 1901 at Jarrow, County Durham.
Memorial at grave in Highland Rd., Cemetery, Portsmouth.
VCs Medal's Custodian is the 9th/12th Lancers Museum.
Citation reads
On 6th March 1858 at Lucknow, India, Lance-Corporal Goat dismounted
in the presence of the enemy in order to take up the body of a
major, which he then attempted to take off the field, but was
forced to relinquish as he was surrounded by hostile cavalry.
He did not, however give up, but went a second time under heavy
fire and recovered the body.
Additional information: He was later promoted to Corporal. The
major, whose body was recovered was named Smyth of the 2nd Dragoon
Guards. This was mentioned in the Despatch from Major-General
Sir James Hope Grant KCB, dated 8th April 1858.
His Indian Mutiny medal and his Victoria Cross were sold in London
seven months (May, 1902)after his death for £85.
GOBAR SING NEGI. (reg No. 454).
Riflemen. 2nd/39th Garhwal Rifles, Indian Army.
London Gazetted on 28th April, 1915.
Born on October 1893 at Manjaur,Takti State,Garwhal, India.
Died on 10th March, 1915 at Neuve Chapelle, France. (killed in
action).
Memorial at Neuve Chapelle Memorial, France.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 10th March, 1915 at Neuve Chapelle, France, during an attack
on the German position Rifleman Gobar Sing Negi was one of a bayonet
party with bombs who entered their main trench, and was the first
man to go around each traverse, driving back the enemy until they
were eventually forced to surrender. He was killed during this
engagement.
GOBIND SINGH. (reg No. 455).
Lance-Dafadar* 28th Light Cavalry, and attached to 2nd Lancers,
Indian Army.
London Gazetted on 11th January 1918.
Born on 7th December, 1887 at Damoe,(a village), Jodhpur, India.
Died on 9th December, 1942 at Nagaur, Rajputana, India.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 1st December, 1917 east of Peizieres, France, Lance-Dafadar
Gobind Singh three times volunteered to carry messages between
the Regiment and Brigade Headquarters, a distance of 1 1/2 miles
over open ground which was under heavy fire from the enemy. He
succeeded each time in delivering the message, although when each
occasion his horse was shot and he was compelled to finish the
journey on foot.
* Lance-Sergeant.
GODLEY, Sidney Frank. (reg No. 456).
Private. 4th Battalion, Royal Fusiliers.
London Gazetted on 25th November, 1914.
Born on 14th August, 1889 at East Grinstead, Sussex.
Died on 29th June 1957 at Epping, Essex.
Memorial on grave at Loughton Cemetery, Loughton, and on plaque
on Nimy Bridge, Mons.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 23rd August 1914 at Mons, Belgium, Private Godley took over
a machine gun on Nimy Bridge when the Lieutenant * in charge of
the section had been mortally wounded. Private Godley held the
enemy from the bridge single handed for two hours under very heavy
fire and was wounded twice. His gallant action covered the retreat
of his comrades, but he was eventually taken prisoner. His final
act and was to destroy the gun and throw the pieces into the canal.
* M.J.Dease. (reg No. 320)
Additional information: . He was the first private, in the European
War (WW I ) to be awarded the Victoria Cross. In 1938 Sidney Godley
was presented with a gold medal specially struck by the people
of Mons, Belgium.
It is believed that Private Godley was the soldier on whom Bruce
Bairnsfather based his creation,"Old Bill," the famous
'Great War' cartoon character.
GOOD, Herman James. (reg No. 457).
Corporal. 13th Battalion, Quebec Regiment (Royal Highlanders of
Canada).
London Gazetted on 27th September, 1918.
Born on 29th November, 1887 at South Bathurst, New Brunswick,
Canada.
Died on 18th April 1969 at Bathurst. New Brunswick, Canada.
Memorial on grave at St Albans cemetery, Bathurst, New Brunswick.
Digest of Citation reads:
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 charge the battery under point-blank
fire and captured the entire crew of three guns.
GOODFELLOW, Charles Augustus. (reg No. 458).
Lieutenant. Bombay Engineers.
London Gazetted on 16th April, 1863.
Born on 27th November, 1836 in Essex.
Died on 1st September, 1915 at Leamington, Warwickshire.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 6th October, 1859 during an attack on the Fort of Beyt, India,
a soldier was shot under the walls in a sharp fire of matchlock.
Lieutenant Goodfellow carried away the body of the man who was
then dead, but whom he had at first thought was only wounded.
Additional information:. Lieutenant General Goodfellow was also
a Companion (of the Order) of the Bath. (CB) .
GOODLAKE, Gerald Littlehales. (reg No. 459).
Major. Coldstream Guards.
London Gazetted on 24th February, 1857
VC Medal's Custodian is the Guards Regimental HQ..
Born on 14th May 1832 at Wadley, Berkshire.
Died on 5th April 1890 at Denham, Middlesex.
Memorial on grave at Harefield Churchyard, Middlesex.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 28th October, 1854 at Inkerman, Crimea, Major Goodlake was
in command of a party of sharpshooters which held Windmill Ravine
against a much larger force of the enemy, killing 38, including
one officer, and taking three prisoners. He also showed conspicuous
gallantry on a later occasion when his sharpshooters surprised
a picquet and seized the knapsacks and rifles of the enemy.
Additional information:. Lieutenant General Goodlake also held
the Légion d'Honneur of France.
GORDON, Bernard Sidney. (reg No. 460).
Lance-Corporal. 41st Battalion (Queensland), Australian Imperial
Force.
London Gazetted on 26th December, 1918.
Born on 16th August, 1891 at Launceston, Tasmania.
Died on 19th October, 1963 at Launceston, Tasmania.
Memorial on Australian War Memorial, Canberra, Australia.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 26/27th August, 1918 east of Bray, France, after leading his
section through heavy shellfire, Lance-Corporal Gordon, single-handed,
attacked an enemy machine-gun, killed the gunner and captured
the post, which contained an officer and 10 men. He then cleared
more trenches and captured a further 51 prisoners, including one
officer and six machine-guns.
Additional information:. Lance-Corporal Gordon also held the Military
Medal (MM).
GORDON, James Heather. (reg No. 461).
Private. 2nd/31st Battalion, (Queensland and Victoria) Australian
Military Forces.
London Gazetted on 28th October, 1941.
Born on 7th March, 1909 at Rockingham, Western Australia.
Died on 24th July, 1986 at Perth, Western Australia.
Memorial on Australian War Memorial, Canberra, Australia.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 10th July, 1941 at Djezzine, Syria, Private Gordon's company
was held up by intense machine-gun and grenade fire, but on his
own initiative, he crept forward alone and succeeded in getting
close to the machine gun post. He then charged it and killed the
four machine-gunners. His action completely demoralised the enemy
in this sector and the company advanced and took the position.
GORDON, William Eagleson . (reg No. 462).
Captain. 1st Battalion, Gordon Highlanders.
London Gazetted on 28th September, 1900.
Born on 4th May 1866 at Bridge of Allan, Stirling Shire, Scotland.
Died on 10th March 1941 in London.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 11th July, 1900 near Krugersdorp, South Africa, a party of
men had succeeded in dragging an artillery waggon under cover
when its horses were unable to do so, because of heavy and accurate
firing by the enemy. Captain Gordon then went out alone to the
nearest gun under heavy fire and then having fastened a drag rope
to the gun, he called for volunteers to come and help. While the
gun was being moved, however, a captain * and three men were hit,
and to save further casualties, Captain Gordon ordered the remainder
of the party to take cover, and having seen them wounded safely
away, he himself retired.
* D.R. Younger. (reg No. 1349).
Additional information:. Colonel Gordon was also a Commander of
the Order of the British Empire (CBE).
GORDON, William James. (reg No. 463).
Lance-Corporal. West Indian Regiment.
London Gazetted on 9th December 1892.
Born on 19th May, 1864 in Jamaica, West Indies.
Died on 15th August, 1922 in Jamaica, West Indies.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 13th March, 1892 at Toniataba, West Africa, the major who was
in command of the troops was superintending a party of 12 men
who were trying, with a heavy beam, to break down the south gate
of the town. Suddenly a number of musket-muzzles appeared through
a double row of loopholes, some of them being only two or three-yards
from the major's back and before he realised what had happened,
Lance-Corporal Gordon threw himself between the major and the
muskets, pushing that officer out of the way. At the same moment
the NCO was shot through the lungs.
GORE-BROWN, Henry George. (See Reg. No.136)
GORLE, Robert Vaughan. (reg No. 464).
Lieutenant. 'A' Battery, 50th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery.
London Gazetted on 14th December, 1918.
Born on 6th May 1896 at Southsea, Hampshire.
Died on 10th January, 1937 at Durban, Natal, South Africa.
Memorial on grave at Stella Wood Cemetery, Durban, South Africa.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 1st October, 1918 at Ledeghem, Belgium, Lieutenant Gorle was
in command of an 18-pounder gun working in close conjunction with
the infantry. He brought his gun into action in the most exposed
position on four separate occasions and disposed of enemy machine
guns by firing over open sights under direct fire. Later, when
the infantry were driven back, he galloped his gun in front of
the leading troops and twice knocked out enemy machine guns which
were causing the trouble. His disregard of personal safety was
a magnificent example to the wavering line which rallied and re-took
the northern end of the village.
GORMAN, James. (reg No. 465).
Seaman. Royal Navy (Naval Brigade.)
London Gazetted on 24th February 1857.
Born on 21st August 1834 at Islington, London.
Died on 18th October, 1882 on Spectacle Island, Parramatta River,
Sydney, Australia.
Memorial is on the War Memorial in Old Pioneers Park, Liechardt,
Sydney.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 5th November 1854 at the Battle of Inkerman, Crimea, when the
Right Lancaster Battery was attacked and many of the soldiers
were wounded, Seaman Gorman, with two other seamen * and two others
who were killed during the action, mounted the defence work Banquette
and, under withering attack from the enemy, kept up a rapid, repulsing
fire. Their muskets were reloaded for them by the wounded soldiers
under the parapets and eventually the enemy full-back and gave
no more trouble.
* T Reeves (reg No. 1034) and M. Scholefield (reg No. 1116) .
Additional information:. Gorman was later promoted to Captain
of the After Guard. It is noted that the two other seamen, who
were killed during the action, remain unrecognised. Their part
in this action was every bit as brave as the others but the Victoria
Cross, at that time, was not awarded posthumously.
The following information was sent by Letter from Sir S. Lushington
dated 7th June 1856
At the Battle of Inkerman, on the 5th November 1854, when the
Right Lancaster Battery was attacked; five men of the Royal Navy,
under heavy enemy fire, mounted the Banquet and using muskets
belonging to disabled soldiers kept up a steady firing. Other
troops, below the parapet, kept the muskets loaded for them. Two
of these men were killed in the action.
The surviving three, Thomas Reeves, James GORMAN and Mark Scholefield,
all seamen, were awarded the Victoria Cross for the bravery displayed
on that occasion. Unfortunately the two others that gave their
lives in the action and, whose names are not known, got no official
recognition as the Victoria Cross, at that time, was not awarded
posthumously.
GORT, The Viscount John Standish Surtees Prendergast Vereka.
(reg No. 466).
Lieutenant Colonel. Commanding 1st Battalion, Grenadier Guards.
London Gazetted on 27th November, 1918.
Born on 10th July 1886 on the Isle of Wight.
Died on 31st March 1946 at London.
Memorial at the St John the Baptist Church at Penshurst, Kent.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 27th September 1918 at the Canal du Nord near Flesquieres,
France, Lieutenant Colonel Gort led his battalion under very heavy
fire and although wounded, when the Battalion was held up, he
went across open ground to obtain assistance from a tank and personally
led it to best advantage. He was again wounded but after lying
on a stretcher for a while, insisted on getting up and directing
the further attack which resulted in the capture of over 200 prisoners,
two batteries of field guns and numerous machine-guns. He refused
to leave the field until the success signal had gone up on the
final objective.
Additional information:. Field-Marshal Gort was at a Knight Grand
Cross of the Bath (GCB), a Commander of the Order of the British
Empire (CBE), a holder of the Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
and 2 Bars, a Member of the Royal Victorian Order (MVO) and Military
Cross (MC).
He had an extensive military career during which time he was Chief
of the Imperial General Staff from 1937-39 after which he became
C-in-C British Field Force until 1940.
From 1940-41 he was the Inspector-General of the Home Guard as
well as having the responsibility to the Forces for training.
He served as Aide-de-Camp to King George VI until 1944, during
which time he was also C-in-C Gibraltar until 1942, followed by
C in C Malta from 1942-44.
From 1944-45 he was the High Commissioner and C-in-C for Palestine
as well as High Commissioner for Trans Jordan.
He was the Commandant the Honourable Artillery Company 1943-46.
He was the father in-law of Major W P Sidney VC. (reg No. 1143).
GOSLING, William. (reg No. 467).
Sergeant. Third Wessex Brigade, Royal Field Artillery.
London Gazetted on 14th June, 1917.
Born on 15th August, 1892 at Wanborough, Swindon, Wiltshire.
Died on 12th February, 1945 at Wroughton, Wiltshire.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 5th April, 1917 near Arras, France, a bomb which had a faulty
cartridge, fell 10 yards from the Mortar. Sergeant Gosling sprang
out, lifted the nose of the bomb which had sunk into the ground,
unscrewed the fuse and threw it on the ground where it immediately
exploded. This very gallant action undoubtedly saved the lives
of the whole detachment.
Additional information:. Later in his career he became a Major.
GOUGH, Charles John Stanley. (reg No. 468).
Major. 5th Bengal European Cavalry.
London Gazetted on 21st October, 1859.
Born on 20th January, 1832 at Chittagong, India.
Died on 6th September, 1912 at Clonmel, Tipperary, Ireland.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 15th August, 1857 at Khurkowdah, India, Major Gough saved the
life have his brother * who was wounded, and killed two of the
enemy. On 18th August he led a troop of the Guide Cavalry in a
charge and cut down two of the enemy's sowars after a hand-to-hand
combat with one of them. On 27th January, 1858, in a charge, he
attacked one of the enemy's leaders and pierced him with his sword
which was carried out of his hand in the melee. He defended himself
with his revolver and shot two of the enemy. On 23rd February
at a Meangunge he went to the assistance of a major and killed
his opponent.
* Lieutenant H H Gough (reg No. 469) brother of Major Charles
Gough VC. (above).
Additional information:. General Charles Gough VC was also a holder
of the Knight Grand Cross of the Bath (GCB). He was also the father
of Brevet-Major John Edmond Gough VC.
GOUGH, Hugh Henry. (reg No. 469).
Lieutenant. 1st Bengal European Light Cavalry.
London Gazetted on 24th December 1858.
Born on 14th November, 1833 in Calcutta, India.
Died on 12th May, 1909 in London, England.
Memorial on grave in Kensal Green Cemetery, London.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 12th November 1857 Alumbagh, India, Lieutenant Gough charged
across the swamp and captured two guns which were defended by
a vastly superior body of the enemy. His horse was wounded in
two places and he himself received sword cuts through his turban.
On 25th every 1858 at Jallalabad he set a magnificent example
to his regiment when he was ordered to charge a the enemy's guns.
He engaged himself in a series of single combats until at length
he was disabled by a musket ball through his leg whilst charging
two Sepoys with fixed bayonets.
Additional information:. General Sir Hugh Gough VC also was a
holder of the Knight Grand Cross of the Bath. (GCB). From 1898-1909
he was the Keeper of the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London.
He was the brother of General Sir Charles Gough VC. And was the
uncle of Brevet-Major John Gough VC.
GOUGH, John Edmond. (reg No. 470).
Brevet-Major. The Rifle Brigade. (Prince Consort's Own).
London Gazetted on 15th January 1904.
Born on 25th October 1871 at Muree, India.
Died on 22nd February, 1915 at Estaires, France (Died on of wounds).
Memorial at Estaire's Communal Cemetery, France and on the Rifle
Brigade Memorial at Winchester Cathedral.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 22nd April, 1903 after the action at Daratoleh, Somaliland,
Major Gough who was in charge of the column, came back to help
two captains * who were with a mortally wounded officer. They
managed to get him on a camel, but he was wounded again and Died
on immediately.
* Captain W.G. Walker (reg No. 1261) and Captain G M Rolland (reg
No. 1179) who were both awarded the Victoria Cross for their gallantry
in this situation.
Additional information:. Brigadier General Sir John Gough was
also a Knight Commander of the Bath (KCB) and a Companion of St
Michael and St George. (CMG).
From 1907-09 he was Inspector-General of the King's African Rifles.
His first active service was in British Central Africa during
the period 1896-97. He was with the expedition that saw service
against Chitsusi and Chilwa. He also saw service at the Battle
of Khartoum, Sudan in 1898 as well as being at the South Africa
War in the defence of Ladysmith. He was also in the actions that
took place at Laing's Nek, Belfast and Lydenberg. He received
the Queen's and King's medals with five clasps and had been mentioned
in Despatches three times.
He Died on in his wounds, received in France, on 22nd February
1915 at the age of 43. His obituary appeared in the Times on 24th
February 1915.
GOULD, Thomas William. (reg No. 471).
Petty Officer. Royal Navy.
London Gazetted on 9th June 1942.
Born on 28th December, 1914 at Dover.
Died on 6th December, 2001
Digest of Citation reads:
On 16th February, 1942 north of Crete, HM Submarine Thrasher,
after attacking and sinking a supply ship, was itself attacked,
and later, after surfacing, two unexploded bombs were discovered
in the gun casing. The first Lieutenant * and Petty Officer Gould
removed the first one without too much difficulty, but the second
was lying in a very confined space and they had to approach it
lying full length. Petty Officer Gould then lay on his back with
the bomb in his arms while the Lieutenant dragged him along by
the shoulders. It was 40 minutes before they got the bomb clear
and dropped it over the side.
* beat P.S.W.Roberts (reg No. 1063).
Additional information:. Lieutenant Commander Gould was deeply
attached to his Jewish roots. He fought continually for the right's
of the Jewish people in Palestine from the time he left the service
in 1946 until the Jewish nation of Israel was established in 1948.
He was a proud member of the following service associations, the
Royal British Legion, Royal Naval Association and the International
Submarine Association.
In 1941 he married Phyllis Eldridge and they had one son. Phyllis
passed away in 1985. His younger brother, who was also in the
Royal Naval Submarine Service was lost during the war.
At the time of this entry, December 10th, 2001, Lieutenant Commander
Gould's death at the age of 86 years leaves 19 holders of the
Victoria Cross still living.
GOURLEY, Cyril Edward. (reg No. 472).
Sergeant. 'D' Battery, 276th (West Lancs.). Brigade, Royal Field
Artillery.
London Gazetted on 13th February, 1918.
Born on 19th January, 1893 at Wavertree, Liverpool, Lancashire.
Died on 30th January, 1982 at Haslemere, Surrey.
Memorial at Grayswood College, Chiddingfold, Surrey and at the
Memorial College at West Kirby, The Wirral.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 30th November 1917 that Little Priel Farm, East of Epehy, France,
Sergeant Gourley was in command of a section of howitzers. During
an enemy advance, when their forces were within a few hundred
yards of him, both to the front and on one flank, and though plagued
by snipers, Sergeant Gourley managed to keep one gun firing. At
one point he pulled the gun out of the pit and engaged a machine
gun at 500 yards, knocking it out with a direct hit. All day he
held the Germans in check, firing over open sights on enemy parties,
thereby saving his guns, which were withdrawn at night fall.
Additional information: Captain Gourley also was awarded the Military
Medal (M M).
GRADY, Thomas. (reg No. 473).
Private. 4th Regiment. (King's Own (Royal Lancaster) Regiment).
London Gazetted on 23rd June, 1857
VC Medal's Custodian is the Australian War Memorial, Canberra,
Australia..
Born on 18th September, 1835 at it Cheddah, Galway, Ireland.
Died on 18th May 1891 at Victoria, Australia.
Memorial on grave at Melbourne General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria,
Australia and at The Priory, Lancaster.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 18th October, 1854 in the Crimea, Private Grady volunteered
to repair the embrasures of the Sailor's Battery on the Left Attack
and carried out this task under very heavy fire from a line of
batteries. On 22nd November during the repulse of a Russian attack,
although severely wounded, Private Grady refused to leave the
front and his example encouraged the weak force which was engaging
the enemy to maintain their position.
Additional information:. Sergeant Grady also held the Distinguished
Conduct Medal. (DCM)
GRAHAM, Gerald. (reg No. 474).
Lieutenant. Corps of Royal Engineers.
London Gazetted on 24th February, 1857.
Born on 27th June 1831 at Acton, London.
Died on 17th December, 1899 at Acton, London.
Memorial on grave at St Mary's Church, Bideford, Devon.
. Digest of Citation reads:
On 18th June, 1855 in the Crimea, Lieutenant Graham, accompanied
by a Sapper * showed determined gallantry at the head of a ladder
party at the assault on the Redan at Sebastopol. He also went
out on numerous occasions to bring in wounded officers and men.
* J Perie. (reg No. 983).
Additional information:. Lieutenant General Sir Gerald Graham
was a Knight Grand Cross of the Bath (GCB), also a Knight Grand
Cross of St Michael and St George. (G C M G) and the Légion
d'Honneur of France.
GRAHAM, John Reginald Noble. (reg No. 475).
Lieutenant. 9th Battalion, Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders attached
to 136th Company, Machine-Gun Corps.
London Gazetted on 14th September, 1917.
Born on 17th September, 1892 at Calcutta, India.
Died on 6th September, 1980 at Edinburgh.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 22nd April, 1917 at Istabulat, Mesopotamia, Lieutenant Graham
was in command of a machine gun section which came under very
heavy fire. When his men became casualties he insisted on carrying
the ammunition and although twice wounded, he continued in control
and with one gun opened accurate fire on the enemy. This gun was
put out of action and he was again wounded and forced to retire,
but before doing so he disabled his gun and then brought a Lewis
gun into action with excellent effect until all the ammunition
was expended. He was wounded yet again and was again forced to
retire.
Additional information:. Lieutenant Colonel Graham also held the
Order of the British Empire (O B E).
He also served in World War II. In peacetime, from 1959 to 1979
he was a Gentleman Usher of the Green Rod to the Most Noble Order
of the Thistle.
GRAHAM, Patrick. (reg No. 476). (or GRAHAME)
Private. 90th Regiment. Scottish Rifles. Perthshire Volunteer
Light Infantry.
London Gazetted on 24th December 1858.
Born on in 1837 at St Michael's, Dublin, Ireland.
Died on 3rd June 1875 at Dublin, Ireland.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 17th November, 1857 at Lucknow, India, Private Graham brought
in a wounded comrade under very heavy fire.
Private Graham was elected by the private soldiers of his regiment
for the Victoria Cross.
GRANT, Charles James William. (Reg No:477)
Lieutenant (later Brevet -Colonel) Indian Staff Corps.
London Gazetted on 26th May 1891.
Born on: 14th October 1861 at Bourtie, Aberdeen, Scotland.
Died on : 23rd November 1932 at Sidmouth in Devon.
Memorial not recorded.
Digest of Citation reads:
During the period 21 March to 9 April 1891 after the disaster
at Manipur, Burma, Lieutenant Grant volunteered to attempt the
relief of the British captives with 80 native soldiers. Inspiring
his men with his example of personal daring and resource, the
lieutenant captured Thobal near Manipur, and held it against a
large force of the enemy.
Additional information: He was the son of Lieutenant-General P.C.S.
St .J. Grant and his wife Helen (She was the daughter of Col.
William Bursett) He had a private education followed by the Royal
Military College at Sandhurst.
On the 10th May 1882 he joined the Suffolk Regiment. He transferred
to The Madras Staff Corps in 1884 where he was in the Burmese
Expedition, gaining the Medal and Clasp for 1885-87.
The VC was awarded for gong to assist the Chief Commisioner's
escort, which had suffered a defeat. With his native troops, a
mix of Punjabis and Gurkhas he stormed Thobal, although wounded,
until they were relieved (9th April); He had his horse shot from
under him on the following 13th April; was severely wounded on
the 25th of the same month. He was awarded a clasp to his Burma
Medal.
He was promoted Captain on the 10th May 1891, the following day
he was made Brevet-Major; Mentioned in Despatches the following
August the 14th.
The men who had served under him and survived were awarded the
Order of Merit for their devotion and heroism in the taking and
holding of Thobal.
He was made ADC to Lt.-Gen. Sir J.C.Dormer, C-in-C, Madras.
In 1891 he married Mary Langlois, the widow of Mr.J.W.Langlois
and the daughter of Mr.T. Denton Scholes.
He was promoted Lieut.-Colonel on the 1st June 1904 and a year
later a Brevet-Colonel.
He retired on the 22nd October 1913, but during the European War
(WWI) he served as the DCO, attached to the 3rd Royal Scots.
GRANT, John Duncan. (Reg.No.478)
Lieutenant (later Colonel) 8th Gurkha Rifles, Indian Army.
London Gazetted on 24th January 1905.
Born on: 28th December1877 at Roorkie, India.
Died on: 20th February 1967 at Tunbridge Wells in Kent.
No recorded Memorial
Digest of Citation reads:
On 6 July 1904 at the storming of the Gyantse Jong, Tibet, the
storming company, led by Lieutenant Grant, had to advance up a
bare,almost precipitous rock-face with little cover and under
heavy fire. Showers of rock and stones were being hurled down
the hillside by the enemy and only one man could go up at a time,
crawling on hands and knees, Lieutenant Grant and a havildar*
attempted to scale the final defensive curtain, but on reaching
the top they were both wounded and hurled back. Regardless of
their injuries, they made another attempt and, covered by fire
of the men below, were at last successful (*Havildar Karbir Pun
of the 8th Gurkha Rifles, awarded Indian Order Of Merit.).
Additional information: He was the son of Colonel suene Grant,
Royal Engineers. His education was at Manor House School, Hastings
followed by Cheltenham college anf the Royal Military College,
Sandhurst. His Army career began as a 2nd Lieutenant on the 22nd
January 1898 and being unattached, to any specific regiment, in
1899 he joined the Indian Army in the Staff Corps. He became a
Lieutenant in the Indiamn Army the following year. He was wounded
whilst serving in Tibet (1903-4) and was Mentioned in Despatches
as well as winning the Victoria Cross. He also held the CB and
the DSO.
He married Kathleen Mary Freyer, daughter of Lt.-Colonel P.J.Freyer.
CB.,MD., IMS. at All Saints Church in Margaret St., London on
the 19th January 1907. They had two children. A boy Hugh Duncan
and a girl, Madeline.
In 1907 he was promoted Captain; As Brigade-Major to the 35th
Brigade of the Imperial Expeditionary Force he served in Mesopotamia
(Iraq) from the 30th November 1915 to13th January 1916 when he
was wounded at Orah and was Mentioned in Despatches.
He went on to become Assistant Adjutant General at Army HQ, India
from 1925 to 1928 then on to be Deputy Director of the Auxiliary
and Territorial Indian Forces (1928-1929) before becomong a Colonel
in the 10th Gurkha Rifles 1934-1947.
GRANT, John Gilroy (Reg. No.479)
Sergeant (later Lieutenant) 1st Battalion, Wellington Infantry
Regiment, NZEF.
London Gazetted on 27th November 1918.
Born on 26th August 1889 at Hawera, New Zealand.
Died on 25th November 1970 at Auckland, New Zealand.
Memorial at Headquarters, Dunedin RSA, New Zealand.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 1 september 1918 near Bancourt, France, the leading wave of
the battalion on reaching a crest of high ground, found that a
line of enemy machine-guns offered a serious obstacle to further
advance. Thecompany, however, advanced against these posts under
point -blank fire, and when about 20 yards away Sergeant Grant,
closely followed by a comrade, rushed ahead of his platoon, entering
the centre post and demoralising the garrisonso that the platoon
were able to mop up the positions. In the same manner he rushed
the post on the left and the remaining posts were quickly occupied
and cleared by his company.
Additional information: The Victoria Cross 1856-1920 states a
more detailed citation than the above, adding, "Throughout
the whole operation on this and the two previous days, Sergeant
Grant sisplayed coolness, determination and valour of the highest
order, and set a splendid example to all."
GRANT, Peter (Reg. No.480)
Private 93rd Foot Regiment (to become The Argyll and Sutherland
Highlanders.....Princess Louise's)
London Gazetted on 24th December 1858.
Born on: a date unknown in 1824 in Ireland.
Died on: 10th January 1868 at Dundee, Scotland.
Memorials not recorded.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 16 November 1857 at Lucknow, India, Private Grant showed great
personal gallantry at the Secundra Bagh in killing five of the
enemy with one of their own swords when they weere attempting
to follow the colonel as that officer was carrying a Colour which
he had captured. (He was elected by the regiment for the VC)
Additional information: He served in the Indian Mutiny. He Died
on the 10th January 1868 by drowning, aged 44.
GRANT, Robert. (Reg.No. 481)
Sergeant 1st Battalion 5th Regiment (becoming The Northumberland
Fusiliers)
London Gazetted on 19th June 1860.
Born on: a date unknown, in 1837 at Harrogate, Yorkshire.
Died on: 23rd November 1874 at London.
Memorial at Alnwick Castle, Northumberland, the Regimental Museum
of the Northumberland Fusiliers.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 24 September 1857 at Alumbagh, India, Sergeant Grant went,
under very heavy fire, to save the life of a private+ whose leg
had been shot away. With the help of a lieutenant,* Sergeant Grant
carried his wounded man to the safety of the camp. *(Lieutenant
Brown.) +(Private E Deveney)
Additional information: There was an error in the announcement
of the award of the VC in the London Gazette dated 19th June 1860.
On the 2nd of October a correction appeared. "For 1st Battn.
5th Regt. Sergt. Robert Ewart, read 1st. Battn. 5th Regt. Sergt.
Robert Grant. Erratum in London Gazette of Tuesday 19th June 1860."
Robert Grant Died on the 23rd, November 1874, at the age of 37,
whilst serving as a Police Constable in 'Y' Division.
GRATWICK, Percival Eric. (reg No. 482).
Private. 2nd/4th Battalion (South Australia). Australian Military
Forces.
London Gazetted on 28th January, 1943.
Born on 19th October 1902 at Katanning, Western Australia.
Died on 25th/26th October, 1942 at Miteiriya Ridge, Libya. (killed
in action).
Memorial at El Alamein War Cemetery, Egypt and on the Australian
War Memorial, Canberra, Australia.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 25th/26th October, 1942 during the attack at Miteiriya Ridge,
Western Desert, the platoon to which Private Gratwick belonged
suffered a considerable number of casualties, including the platoon
commander and sergeant. Private Gratwick, realising the seriousness
of the situation, charged on alone and with hand-grenades, killed
the crew of an enemy machine gun and an entire mortar crew. Under
heavy machine-gun fire he then charged the second post with a
rifle and bayonet. In inflicting further casualties he was killed
by machine-gun fire, but his brave and determined action enabled
his company to capture the final objective.
GRAY, Robert Hampton. (reg No. 483).
Lieutenant Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve. 1841 Squadron,
Fleet Air Arm.
London Gazetted on 13th November, 1945.
Born on 2nd November, 1917 at Trail, British Columbia, Canada.
Died on 9th August 1945 at Honshu, Japan. (killed in action).
Memorial on Halifax Memorial, Nova Scotia, Canada.
Digest of Citation reads:
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.
Additional information:. Lieutenant Gray also held the Distinguished
Service Cross (DSC).
GRAY, Thomas. (reg No. 484).
Sergeant . 12 Squadron, Royal Air Force.
London Gazetted on 11th June 1940.
Born on 17th May 1914 at Urchfont, Devizes, Wiltshire.
Died on 12th May, 1940 at Maastricht, Holland.
Memorial at Heverlee War Cemetery, Louvain, Belgium. (killed in
action).
Digest of Citation reads:
On 12th May, 1940, over the Albert Canal, Belgium, one bridge
in particular was being used by the invading army, with protection
from fighter aircraft, anti-aircraft and machine guns. The RAF
was ordered to demolish this vital bridge, and five Fairey Battle
bombers were dispatched with Sergeant Gray as the navigator in
the plane leading the bombing attack. They met an inferno of anti-aircraft
fire, but the mission was accomplished, much of the success being
due to the coolness and resource of the pilot * of the leading
aircraft and the navigation of Sergeant Gray. Unfortunately the
leading aircraft and three others did not return.
* D.E. Garland (reg No. 443).
Additional information:. In the aircraft with Flying Officer Garland
and Sergeant Gray was Leading Aircraftman Lawrence Reynolds, the
air gunner.
LAC Reynolds was not even mentioned in the citation, although
along with Garland and Gray he was a vital part of this brave,
but suicidal, attack. He is recorded here as my tribute to the
third-man.
It is fitting that the three men, crew of the Fairey Battle, are
buried side by side in the Belgian graveyard at Louvain, the Heverlee
War Cemetery, as they all bravely Died on together.
GRAYBURN, John Hollington. (reg No. 485).
Lieutenant. The Parachute Regiment (Army Air Corps).
London Gazetted on 25th January 1945.
Born on 30th January 1918 on the island of Manora, India.
Died on 20th September, 1944 at Arnhem, Holland. (killed in action).
Memorial at Arnhem Oosterbeek War Cemetery, Holland and in the
Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank, in Gracechurch Street, London.
Digest of Citation reads:
During the period 17th/20th September, 1944 at Arnhem, Holland,
at the assault on the bridge over the Rhine, Lieutenant Grayburn
led his men with supreme gallantry and determination. Although
wounded early in the action, in pain, short of food and without
sleep, his courage never flagged. He constantly exposed himself
to the enemy's fire, moving among his men encouraging them, and
seemed oblivious to danger. If it had not been for his inspiring
leadership and personal bravery, the Arnhem Bridge could never
have been held for this time.
GREAVES, Fred. (reg No. 486).
Corporal. 9th Battalion. Sherwood Foresters. (Notts and Derby
Regiment).
London Gazetted 26th November, 1917.
VC Medal's Custodian is the Sherwood Forester's Museum, Nottingham
Castle, Nottingham.
Born on 16th May, 1890 at Killamarsh, Derbyshire.
Died on 11th June 1973 at Chesterfield, Derbyshire.
Memorial on grave at Brimington, Derbyshire.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 4th October 1917 at Poelcapelle, east of Ypres, Belgium, when
the platoon was held up by machine-gun fire from a concrete stronghold
and the platoon commander and sergeant were casualties, Corporal
Greaves followed by another NCO, rushed forward, reached the rear
of the building and bombed the occupants, killing or capturing
the garrison and the machine-gun. Later, at a most critical period
of the battles, during a heavy counter-attack, all the officers
of the company became casualties and Corporal Greaves collected
his men, threw out extra posts on the threatened flank and opened
up rifle and machine-gun fire to enfilade their advance.
GREEN, John Leslie. (reg No. 487).
Captain. Royal Army Medical Corps, attached 1st Battalion, Sherwood
Foresters. (Notts and Derby Regiment).
London Gazetted on 5th August, 1916.
Born on 4th December, 1888 at St Neots, Huntingdonshire.
Died on 1st July, 1916 at Foncquevillers, France.
Memorial at Foncquevillers Military Cemetery, France.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 1st July, 1916 at Foncquevillers, France, Captain Green, although
wounded himself, rescued an officer who had been wounded and was
caught up in the enemy's wire entanglements. He dragged him to
a shell-hole where he dressed his wounds, notwithstanding the
bombs and grenades being thrown at him the whole time. Captain
Green then tried to bring the wounded officer to safety and had
nearly succeeded when he was himself killed.
GREEN, Patrick. (reg No. 488).
Private. 75th Regiment (Gordon Highlanders).
London Gazetted on 26th October 1858.
Born on in 1824 at Ballinasloe, County Galway, Ireland.
Died on 19th July, 1889 at Cork, Ireland.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 11th September, 1857 at Delhi, India, when a picket at Koodsia
Bagh, Private Green although surrounded by many of the enemy,
successfully rescued a comrade who had fallen, wounded, as a skirmisher.
Additional information:. Copy of a general order issued by the
Commander in Chief in India reads:
General Order, headquarters, Allahabad. 28th July 1858. The Commander
In Chief in India is pleased to approve that the undermentioned
soldier is presented in the name of Her Most Gracious Majesty,
with a medal of the Victoria Cross, for Valour and daring in the
field, viz., Private Patrick Green, her Majesty's 75th Foot, for
having, on 11th September, 1857, when the picket at Koodsia Baugh,
at Delhi, was hotly pressed by a large body of the enemy, successfully
rescued a comrade who had fallen wounded as a skirmisher. (signed)
C.Campbell, General, Commander In Chief, East India. Patrick Green
was promoted to Colour-Sergeant later in his career. He Died on
19th July 1889 at the age of 65.
GREENWOOD, Harry. (reg No. 489).
Lieutenant Colonel Commanding 9th Battalion, King's Own Yorkshire
Light Infantry.
London Gazetted on 26th December, 1918.
Born on 25th November, 1881 at Windsor, Berkshire.
Died on 5th May 1948 at Wimbledon, Surrey.
Memorial on grave at Putney Vale Cemetery and at Victoria Barracks,
Windsor.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 23rd October 1918 at Ovillers, France, when the advance of
the Battalion was checked by enemy machine-gun fire, Lieutenant
Colonel Greenwood single-handed rushed the position and killed
the crew. Subsequently, accompanied by two runners he took another
machine-gun post, but then found that his command was almost surrounded
by the enemy who started to attack. Repulsing this attack, the
Colonel led his troops forward, capturing the last objective with
150 prisoners, eight machine-guns and one field gun. On 24 October
he again inspired his men to such a degree that the last objective
was captured and the line held in spite of heavy casualties.
Additional information:. Lieutenant Colonel Greenwood held the
Distinguished Service Order (DSO) and Bar, the Order of the British
Empire (OBE) and the Military Cross. (MC).
During World War II, from 1940-45, he served with the Pioneer
Corps.
GREGG, Milton Fowler. (reg No. 490).
Lieutenant. Royal Canadian Regiment. Canadian Expeditionary Force.
London Gazetted on 6th January, 1919.
Born on 10th April, 1892 at Mountain Dale, New Brunswick, Canada.
Died on 13th March, 1978 at Fredricstown, New Brunswick, Canada.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
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.
Additional information:. Brigadier Gregg was a Commander of the
Order of British Empire (CBE), held the Military Cross (MC) and
Bar.
Serving in World War II from 1939-45 he became Commandant of the
Canadian Officer Cadet Training Unit in England in 1941. He was
Colonel Commandant of the Officers' Training Centre in Canada
in 1942 and in 1943 he was Brigadier Commandant at the Canadian
School of Infantry.
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.
GREGG, William. (reg No. 491).
Sergeant. 13th Battalion, Rifle Brigade (Prince Consort's Own).
London Gazetted on 28th June, 1918.
Born on 27th January, 1890 at Heanor, Derbyshire.
Died on 10th August, 1969 at Heanor, Derbyshire.
Memorial on the Rifle Brigade Memorial at Winchester Cathedral
and at the Swimming Baths, Heanor, Derbyshire.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 6th May, 1918 at Bucquoy, France, when all the officers of
Sergeant Gregg's company had been hit during an attack on an enemy
outpost, he took command, rushing two enemy posts, killing some
of the gun teams, taking prisoners and capturing a machine gun..
He then started to consolidate his position until driven back
by a counter-attack, but as reinforcements had by now come up,
he led a charge, personally bombed a hostile machine-gun, killed
the crew and captured the gun. When driven back again, he led
another successful attack and held on to his position until ordered
to withdraw.
Additional information:. Company Sergeant-Major Gregg was also
awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM) and the Military
Medal (MM).
He was the son of Mr and Mrs William Gregg of 97, Yorke Street,
Mansfield Woodhouse, Derbyshire. He attended Mundy Street School,
Heanor after which he became a Miner at Shipley Colliery. On 25th
June 1910 he married Sarah Hardy, daughter of Mr and Mrs William
Hardy at Heanor Church, Derbyshire.
He enlisted on the 24th November 1914 as a private in the Rifle
Brigade. While serving in the European War (WW 1) he was wounded
on the Somme. On 4th February 1917 he went on a dangerous daylight
patrol and obtained useful intelligence. For this he was awarded
the Military Medal. On 30th November 1917 when the the enemy attacked
in force, Sergeant Gregg seeing the Battalion on the left under
heavy pressure, carried several messages across a road swept by
a devastating machine-gun fire and was cut off from his company.
He led a counter-attack, killing many and driving off the enemy.
He was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal.
GRENFELL, Francis Octavus. (reg No. 492).
Captain. 9th Lancers (Queen's Royal).
London Gazetted on 16th November, 1914.
VC Medal's Custodian is 9th/12 Lancers Museum, The Strand, DERBY(Reg
HQ).
Born on 4th September, 1880 at Hatchlands, Guildford, Surrey.
Died on 24th May 1915 at Hooge, Belgium. (killed in action).
Memorial on grave at Hooge, Belgium.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 24th August, 1914 at Audregnies, Belgium, Captain Grenfell
rode with the Regiment in a charge against a large body of unbroken
German infantry. The casualties and were very heavy and the captain
was left as the senior officer. He was rallying part of the regiment
behind a railway embankment when he was twice hit and severely
wounded. In spite of his injuries, however, when asked for help
in saving the guns, by the commander * of the 119th Battery, Royal
Field Artillery, he and some volunteers, under a hail of bullets,
help to manhandle and push the guns out a range of enemy fire.
* See E W Alexander (reg No. 16).
GRIBBLE, Julian Royds. (reg No. 493).
Captain. 10th (Service) Battalion. Royal Warwickshire Regiment.
London Gazetted on 28th of June, 1918.
Born on 5th January 1897 in London.
Died on 25th November 1918* in Germany (Died on of his wounds
whilst a prisoner of war).
Memorial on grave at Niederzwehren Cemetery, Germany.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 23rd March, 1918 at Beaumetz, Hermies Ridge, France, Captain
Gribble was in command of a company which was ordered to hold
on at all costs. They were eventually isolated and he could easily
have withdrawn when the Battalion on his left was driven back,
but he obeyed his orders to the letter and when his company was
finally surrounded by the enemy he was seen fighting to the last.
He was taken prisoner and Died on in Germany of his wounds.
Additional information: . Captain Gribble was educated at Eton
College and at the Royal Military College at Sandhurst. He joined
the Royal Warwickshire Regiment on 15th May, 1915 as a Second
Lieutenant and went off to serve in the European War (WW 1), In
France.
Using a runner, to the company fighting on his left, he intimated
his intention to hold the position until he received further orders
from Battalion HQ. He fought to the last and was eventually taken
prisoner. By a splendid example of courage and grit, and he was
instrumental in delaying, for some hours, the enemy from taking
the ridge. It was his self sacrifice that made it possible for
the remainder of his own Brigade bob bob what will be to withdraw
as well as a three batteries or Field Artillery and another garrison.
* According to the reports in "The Victoria Cross 1856-1920"
Captain Gribble Died on Armistice Day 1918.
GRIEVE, John. (reg No. 494).
Sergeant-Major. 2nd Dragoons (Royal Scots Greys).
London Gazetted on 24th February, 1857.
Born on 3rd May, 1822 at Musselburgh, Midlothian, Scotland.
Died on 1st December, 1863 at Inveresk, Midlothian, Scotland.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 25th October, 1854 at Balaclava, Crimea, an officer in the
heavy cavalry charge was surrounded by Russian cavalry and in
great danger. Sergeant-Major Grieve rode up to his rescue, cutting
off the head of one Russian and dispersing the others.
Additional information:. Before enlisting in the Grey's it is
said, that as a young man, "he ran through a small fortune."
It was while serving in the Crimean War that he rose to the rank
of sergeant major. When offered a commission, and coming into
more money, he accepted it. On 18th February, 1859 He was made
adjutant of his regiment, a position he held until his death in
1863 at the age of 41.
He was the great uncle of Captain Robert Cuthbert Grieve VC. (reg
No. 495).
GRIEVE, Robert Cuthbert. (reg No. 495).
Captain. 37th Battalion (Victoria), Australian Imperial Force.
London Gazetted on 2nd August 1917.
Born on 19th June 1889 at Brighton, Melbourne, Australia.
Died on 4th October 1957 at Melbourne, Australia.
Memorial on grave at Spring Vale Cemetery, Melbourne and on the
Australian War Memorial, Canberra, Australia.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 7th June, 1917 at Messines, Belgium, during an attack on the
enemy's position, and after his own company had suffered very
heavy casualties, Captain Grieve located two hostile machine guns
which were holding up his advance. Under continuous heavy fire
from the two guns, he succeeded in bombing and killing the two
gun crews, then reorganised the remnants of his own company and
gained the original objective. Captain Grieve set a splendid example
and when he finally fell, wounded, the position had been secured.
Additional information:. Captain Grieve was the son of John and
Annie Deas Grieve. Educated at Caulfield Grammar-School and also
at Wesley College, Victoria, Australia. On 9th June 1915 he enlisted
in the Australian Imperial Force as a Private. He was given a
commission in January 1916 in the 37th Battalion (Victoria). He
was promoted to Lieutenant in May 1916 and to Captain in February
the following year, 1917. He was sent to France and saw service
to Armentieres, Bois Grenier, L'Epinette,Ploogsteert Wood, Messines,
(where he won the VC), La Basse Ville and Warneton.
He was married to Mary Isabel, daughter of Mr and Mrs A.C.M.Bowman
of Plinlimmon, Kurrajong, Australia, at Scots Church, Sydney,
on 7th August 1918. Mrs Isabel Grieve served as a nursing sister
with the AIF the three years. She had first met her husband at
a casualty clearing centre and had nursed him through very serious
illness. He was discharged from the army as medically unfit on
28th June 1918. He held the rank of Captain in the Australian
Army Reserve. He was a member of the firm Grieve, Gardner and
Company.
He was the great nephew of Sergeant-Major John Grieve VC. (reg
No. 494).
GRIFFITHS, William. (reg No. 496).
Private. 2nd Battalion, 24th Regiment (South Wales Borderers).
London Gazetted on 17th September, 1867.
Born on in 1841 at County Roscommon, Ireland.
Died on 22nd January, 1879 at Isandhlwana. Zululand.
Tribute on the Regimental Memorial at Isandhlwana, Zululand.
Digest of Citation reads:
On some of May 1867 at the Island of a little Andaman, Bay of
Bengal, Private Griffiths was one of a party of five * of the
2nd/24th Regiment, who 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.
* See David Bell (reg No. 75), J Cooper (reg No. 252), C M Douglas
(reg No. 340) and T Murphy (reg No. 904).
His Victoria Cross was awarded, not in battle, but along with
four others, for saving the lives of 17 officers and men who would
otherwise been at risk from hostile natives (cannibals).
He held the rank of Cergeant when he was killed in the massacre
at Isandhlwana, Zululand on 22nd January 1879.
GRIMBALDESTON, William Henry. (reg No. 497).
Company Quartermaster Sergeant. 1st Battalion, King's Own Scottish
Borderers.
London Gazetted on 14th September, 1917.
Born on 19th September, 1889 at Blackburn, Lancashire.
Died on 13th August, 1859 at Blackburn, Lancashire.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 16th August, 1917 at Wijdendrift, Belgium, Company Quartermaster-Sergeant
Grimbaldeston noticed that the unit on his left was held up by
enemy machine-gun fire from a Blockhouse. Arming himself with
a rifle and hand-grenade he started to crawl towards his objective,
and when he had advanced about 100 yards another soldier came
forward to give covering support. Although wounded, he pushed
on to the Blockhouse, threatened the machine-gun teams inside
with a hand-grenade and forced them to surrender. This action
resulted in the capture of 36 prisoners, six machine-guns, and
one trench mortar.
Additional information:. Company Quartermaster Sergeant Grimblaldeston
also held the Croix de Guerre of France.
GRIMSHAW, John Elisha (reg. No. 498).
Corporal. 1st Battalion The Lancashire Fusiliers.
London Gazetted on 15th March 1917.
Born on: Abram, Wigan Lancs on the 20th January 1893
Died on: Isleworth, London on the 20th July 1980.
Memorial Cremated at S.W. London Crematorium, Hamwell, Middlesex.
One other decoration: The Distinguished Conduct Medal
Digest of Citation reads:
On the 25th April 1915 west of Cape Helles, Gallipoli, three companies
and the Headquarters of the 1st Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers,
when landing on West Beach, were met by very deadly fire from
hidden machine-guns which caused a large number of casualties.
The survivors however, rushed up and cut the wire entanglements
not withstanding the terrific fire from the enemy and after overcoming
supreme difficulties the cliffs were gained and the position maintained.
(Corporal Grimshaw was one of the six members of the Regiment
elected for the award. The other five* were BROMLEY. C; KENEALLY,
W; RICHARDS A.J; STUBBS, F.E; and WILLIS, R.R). * SEE INDIVIDUAL
CITATIONS.
. He was mentioned in Sir Ian Hamilton's Despatch. Corporal Grimshaw's
own account. given at the time, was as follows, "In boats
we got within 200 or 300 yards from the shore when the Turks opened
a terrible fire. Sailors were shot deed at their oars. With rifles
held over our heads we struggled through the barbed wire in the
water to the beach and fought a way to the foot of the cliffs
leaving the biggest part of our meen dead and wounded." He
would say nothing of his own experiences.
He had been content with his DCM until he was informed by the
Hull representative of the Daily Despatch that he had been elected
by his comrades for the VC. His comment was, "Whose leg are
you pulling."
He was presented with a gold watch by the people of Abram and
district in Lancashire. He was one of 32 survivors from a body
of 800 men who had been in the landing on West Beach.
Corporal Grimshaw came from a large family and all the males worked
down the mine. He joined the army on the 13th August 1912 at the
age of 19 and was serving in India, at the outbreak of the European
War (WW I), and from there he was sent to Gallipoli.
After recovering from severe frost-bite he was posted to Hull
as a Musketry Instructor. It was here he met and married, within
three months, Miss Margaret Stout (Maggie). They had two children,
a daughter Mary and a son Leslie.
He continued his military career finishing as a Lieutenant Colonel.
Lt. Col Grimshaw was said by his niece, Mrs Louie Davis, to be
a very private man who shunned publicity. He spent his last days
at Twickenham and nobody there knew that he held the Victoria
Cross.
GRISTOCK, George. (reg No. 499).
Company Sergeant-Major. Royal Norfolk Regiment.
London Gazetted on 23rd August, 1940.
Born on 14th January, 1905 at Pretoria, Transvaal, South Africa.
Died on 16th June 1940 at Brighton, Sussex. (Died on of wounds)
.
Memorial on grave at Bear Road Cemetery, Brighton, Sussex.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 21st May, 1940 near the River Escaut, Belgium, Company Sergeant-Major
Gristock organised a party of eight Riflemen and went forward
to cover the company's right flank, where the enemy had broken
through. He then went on with one man under heavy fire and was
severely wounded in both legs, but having gained his fire position
undetected, he managed to put out of action a machine gun, which
was inflicting heavy casualties and kill the crew of four. He
then dragged himself back to the right flank position but refused
to be evacuated until contact with the battalion had been established.
He later Died on of his wounds.
GROGAN, George William St George. (reg No. 500).
Brigadier-General. Worcestershire Regiment, Commanding the 23rd
Infantry Brigade.
London Gazetted on 25th July 1918.
Born on 1st September, 1875 at Plymouth, Devonshire.
Died on 3rd January 1962 at Sunningdale, Berkshire.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 27th May, 1918 at the River Aisne, France, Brigadier-General
Grogan was in command of the remnants of the infantry of a division
and attached troops. His utter disregard for personal safety combined
with sound practical ability helped to stay the onward thrust
of the enemy. He rode up and down the front line encouraging his
troops under artillery, trench mortar, rifle and machine-gun fire
and when one horse was shot under him, he continued encouraging
his men on foot until another horse was brought. As a result of
his actions the line was held.
Additional information:. Brigadier-General Grogan was a Companion
of the Order of the Bath (CB), a Companion of St Michael and St
George (C M G). He also held the Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
and a Bar. For the period 1933-1945 he was a member of His Majesty
King George V's Body Guard
From 1938-45 he was Colonel,Worcestershire Regiment. He was a
Member of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen-at-Arms.
On the 5th September 1896 he was made Second Lieutenant in the
West India Regiment becoming a Lieutenant on 22nd December, 1897.
In 1898 he saw service in Sierra Leone and in West Africa 1898-99
where he got the Medal.
As a captain he worked with the Egyptian army from May 1902 to
May 1907. On 27th March in 1907 he transferred to the Yorkshire
Light Infantry and the following year, on 18th January, he transferred
to the Worcestershire Regiment.
From 1914 the served in the European War (WW1) being promoted
to Major on 28th September 1914 and to Temporary Lieutenant Colonel
on 22nd March 1915.
In 1916 he was created a Companion of the Order of St Michael
and St George and was mentioned in Despatches and was also awarded
the Distinguished Service Order. It was as a Temporary Brigadier-General
when he was awarded the Victoria Cross. Just two days later he
was awarded a Bar to his DSO.
In 1919 he was given the command of the 1st Brigade of the Russian
Relief Force and was created a Companion of the Order of the Bath.
GUISE, John Christopher. (reg No. 501).
Major. 90th Regiment. (Cameronians...... Scottish Rifles).
London Gazetted on 24th December, 1858.
Born on 27th July, 1826 at Highnam, Gloucestershire.
Died on 5th February 1895 at Gorey, County Wexford, Ireland.
Memorial at Elmore Church, Gloucestershire.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 16th and 17th November, 1857 at Lucknow, India, Major Guise,
together with a sergeant *, saved the life of a captain at the
storming of the Secundra Bagh and also went in under heavy fire
to help two wounded men. In fact he acted with gallantry throughout
the operation for the relief of the Lucknow garrison.
* S Hill (reg No. 569). Both Major Guise and Sergeant Hill were
elected by the Regiment for the Victoria Cross.
Lieutenant General Sir John Guise was also a Companion (of the
Order) of the Bath. (CB). From 1890 he was the Colonel of the
Leicestershire Regiment.
GUNN, George Ward. (reg No. 502).
Second Lieutenant. 3rd Regiment. Royal Horse Artillery.
London Gazetted on 21st April, 1942.
Born on 26th July 1912 at Muggleswick, County Durham.
Died on 21st November, 1941 at Sidi Rezegh, Libya. (killed in
action) .
Memorial on grave at Knightsbridge War Cemetery, Acroma, Libya.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 21st November, 1941 at Sidi Rezegh, Libya, an attack by 60
German tanks was countered by four anti-tank guns under the command
of Second Lieutenant Gunn. During the engagement this officer
drove from gun to gun in an unarmoured vehicle, encouraging his
men, and when three of his guns were destroyed and the crew the
fourth, except there sergeant, were all dead or disabled, he took
charge of the remaining weapon the portee of which was alight.
There was danger of the flames exploding the ammunition with which
the portee was loaded, but he managed to fire 50 rounds and set
two enemy tanks on fire before he himself was killed.
Additional information:. Second Lieutenan Gunn also held the Military
Cross (MC).
GURNEY, Arthur Stanley (Reg. No.503)
Private 2/48th Battalion (Southern Australian) Australian Military
Forces.
London Gazetted on 14th September 1942.
VC Medal's Custodian is the Australian War Memorial, Canberra,
Australia.
Born on 15th December 1908 at Day Dawn, in the Murchison Goldfields,
Western Australia.
Died on 22nd July 1942 at Tel-el-Eisa in Egypt. (Killed in Action)
Memorials are on Grave 21, Row H, Plot XVI, in El Alamein War
Cemetery and also on the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 22 July 1942 at Tel-el-Eisa, Egypt, the company to which Private
Gurney belonged was held up by intense machine-gun fire, heavy
casualties being suffered, including all the officers,. Private
Gurney, realizing the seriousness of the situation, charged the
nearest machine-gun post, silencing the guns and bayoneting three
of the crew. He bayoneted two more at a second post, and was then
knocked down by a grenade, but picked himself up and charged a
third post. Nothing more was seen of him until later, when his
body was found by his comrades, whose advance he had made possible.
GUY, Basil John Douglas. (reg No. 504).
Midshipman. Royal Navy.
London Gazetted on 1st January 1901.
Born on 9th May 1882 at Bishop Auckland, County Durham.
Died on 29th December, 1956 at London.
Memorial on grave at Pirbright, Surrey and on the family memorial
at Christ Church, Harrogate.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 13th July, 1900 during the attack on Tientsin, China, a very
heavy crossfire was brought to bear on the Naval Brigade and there
were several casualties. Among those who fell was an able seaman,
shot about 50 yards short of cover. Midshipman Guy stopped with
him and tried, unsuccessfully, to lift him up, so after bandaging
his wounds he ran to get help. During this time the enemy were
concentrating their fire on the two men. Shortly after Mr Guy
got under cover the stretchers arrived, and he again ran out and
helped to bring in the wounded man, who was unfortunately shot
again and Died on before he could be got to safety.
Additional information:. Commander Guy also held the Distinguished
Service Order.
Updated:15.1.03