John Cunningham

From Alf Askin's research notes

Reproduced as Alf wrote it, c. 2000–2005. Spelling and abbreviations are his own.

CUNNINGHAM John (Reg. No.286)

Private 12th (S) Battalion The East Yorkshire Regiment.

London Gazetted on 13th January 1917.

Born on: 28th June 1897 at Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire.

Died on: 21st February 1941 at Hull, Yorkshire. No Memorial recorded yet.

Digest of Citation reads: For most conspicuous bravery and resource during operations, On 13th November 1916 opposite Hebuterne Section, France, after the enemy's front line had been captured, Private Cunningham went with a bombing section up a communication trench where much opposition was met and all the rest of the section were either killed or wounded. Collecting all the bombs from the casualties Private Cunningham went on alone and when he had used up all the bombs he had he returned for a fresh supply and again went up the communication trench where he met a party of 10 Germans. He killed all 10 and cleared the trench up to the new line. His conduct throughout the day was magnificent.

Additional information: Private, No.12/21 Cunningham was married to Ena and lived in Hull. On behalf of Hull City, Private Cunningham was presented with an illuminated address by the Lord Mayor. It was reported in the Victoria Cross 1856-1920 that he was the first Hull man to ever win the Victoria Cross. This is incorrect, one being won by Bosun John Sheppard on the 15th July 1855 in the Crimea, and the second by Sergeant William Traynor on 6th February 1901 in the Boer War.