RABY, Henry James. (reg No 1014).
Lieutenant. Royal Navy. *
London Gazetted on 24th February 1857.
Born on the 26th September, 1827 at Boulogne, France.
Died on 13th February 1907 at his home, 8, Clarence Parade, Southsea, Hampshire.
Memorial on grave at Highland Road Cemetery, Portsmouth, Hampshire and in the Town Hall, Llanelli, Wales.
Digest of Citation reads:
After the assault on Sebastopol on 18th June 1855, a soldier of the 57th Regiment, who had been shot in both legs, was seen calling for assistance. Commander RABY and two other men, Captain of the Forecastle John Taylor and Boatswain's Mate Henry CURTIS, climbed over the breastwork, all three then proceeding the 70 yards across the open space, all the time under continuous heavy fire from the enemy, making their way towards the salient angle of the Redan. They succeeded in getting the wounded man to a place of safety, all the time under the imminent risk of losing their own lives.
* Naval Brigade.
Additional information:. Rear Admiral RABY was the first person, ever, to receive the Victoria Cross at an Investiture on Hyde Park on 26th June 1857. It was presented by Her Majesty Queen Victoria. (Even though he was not the first person to be awarded the VC, that honour going to Mate Charles Davis LUCAS).
He was made a Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB). He also held the Légion d'Honneur of France, the Order of Medjidie, the Crimean, Sardinian and Turkish Medals with Clasps for Sebastopol and Inkerman
He was the son of Arthur Turnour Raby, of Llanelli, Carmarthen, Wales. He was educated at Sherborne School, entering the Navy in 1842 when he joined HMS Monarch. In 1848 he was on Mates rate, being promoted to Lieutenant in 1850. He served aboard HMS Wasp on Africa's West Coast until 1854 when the Crimean War began. He was sent to the Black Sea, where he fought in the trenches from 23rd October 1854 to 16th September 1855. It was as second-in-command of a ladder party on the Redan, that he won his VC.
More to be added.

RAMAGE, Henry. (reg No. 1015).
Sergeant. 2nd Dragoons. *
London Gazetted on the 2nd June 1858.
Born in 1827 at Morningside, Edinburgh, Scotland.
Died on 29th December 1859 at Newbridge, County Kildare, Ireland.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 25th October 1854, at the Battle of Balaclava, Sergeant Ramage galloped to the assistance of Private McPherson, also of the 2nd Dragoons, when he saw that he was surrounded by seven Russians. By his gallantry, he dispersed the Russians and saved McPherson's life. On the same day, when the Heavy Brigade was rallying, and the enemy retiring, dismounted and brought in a Russian prisoner. Also on the same day, as the Heavy Brigade was covering the retreat of the Light Cavalry, he dismounted and lifted Private Gardiner, whose leg had a severe fracture, from his horse. Sergeant Ramage then carried him bodily to the rear, under a heavy crossfire, thus saving his life. The spot where Private Gardiner would have fallen was immediately afterwards covered by the Russian Cavalry.
* Royal Scots Greys.

RAMBAHADUR LIMBU. (reg.No.1016).
Lance-Corporal. 2nd Battalion. 10th Princess Mary's Gurkha Rifles.
London Gazetted on 21st April 1966.
Born in July or August 1939 at Chyangthapu village , Yangrop Thum, East Nepal.
Attended VC dedication at Westminster Abbey on 14th May 2003.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 21st November 1965, Lance-Corporal Rambahadur Limbu, along with a party 16 Gurkhas when they discovered and attacked about 30 Indonesians located in the border area. They were holding position on a jungle hilltop. Their approach was a knife-edge, which would only allow three men to be abreast. The Lance-Corporal and two men went forward, he saw a sentry and a machine gun in the nearest trench. Edging forward until he was only 10 yards from the trench, they were spotted by the sentry, who fired and hit Bijuliparsad Rai, his comrade to his right. The NCO ran forward, jumped into the trench and killed the sentry. The enemy, now alerted, opened fire on the small party, wounding the other two. From his position in the trench, he realised that he could not support his platoon. Leaving the trench, he led the platoon to a better position. He then began his crawl to rescue the two wounded comrades. Realising that stealth, under the heavy fire from two machine guns, was impossible, he jumped to his feet and ran, calling for support from his own machine-gunners. Under their covering fire he picked up the first wounded man and carried him to safety, returning, still under heavy fire, for the second. That he was able to achieve what he did, against such overwhelming odds, without being hit, was miraculous.
Additional information:. Rambahadur Limbu was made a Member of the Royal Victorian Order.(MVO)

RAM SARUP SINGH. (reg No. 1017).
Subadar. 1st Punjab Regiment. Indian Army.
London Gazetted on 8th February 1945.
Born on 13th April 1919 at Khere, Patiale State, India.
Killed in action on the 25th October 1944 at Kennedy Peak, Burma.
Memorial on the Rangoon Memorial, Burma.
Digest of Citation reads:
At Kennedy Peak in the Tiddim area of Burma, on 25th October 1944, two platoons of the Indian Army attacked a particularly strong enemy position. The platoon under the command of Subadar Ram Sarup Singh completely routed the enemy and achieved its objective. The Subadar was wounded in both legs but he insisted in carrying on. A fierce counter-attack by the enemy was halted by Subadar Ram Sarup Singh's dashing account charge, during which he killed four of the enemy himself. A further wound, in the thigh, however, did not prevent him from continuing to lead his men, killing two more of the enemy before he, himself, was mortally wounded.

RAMSDEN, Horace Edward. (reg No. 1018).
Trooper. Protectorate Regiment. South African Forces.
London Gazetted on 6th July 1900.
Born on 15th December 1878 at Chester.
Died on 3rd August 1948 at Wynberg, Cape, South Africa.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
During the fight at Game Tree near Mafeking on 26th December 1899, after the order had been given to retire. Trooper Ramsden picked up his brother, Trooper A E Ramsden, who had been shot through both legs and lay some 10 yards from the Boer trenches. He then carried him not less than 600 yards, all the time under extremely heavy fire. Occasionally, he placed his brother on the ground, in order to rest. Eventually he met some men who helped him to get to a place of safety.
Additional information:. Trooper H E Ramsden was the second man to be decorated with the Victoria Cross for saving his brother. The first was General Sir Charles Gough VC, his brother being General Sir Hugh Gough VC.

RANDLE, John Neil. (reg No. 1019).
Captain. 2nd Battalion. Royal Norfolk Regiment.
London Gazetted on 12th of December 1944.
Born on the 22nd December, 1917 at Benares, India.
Killed in action on the 6th May, 1944 at Kohima, Assam, India.
Memorial on grave at Kohima War Cemetery, Assam, India.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 4th May 1944 at Kohima, Assam, India, a company of the Royal Norfolk Regiment, which was leading the attack against Japanese positions on a nearby ridge, was taken over by Captain Randle after his company Commander had been severely wounded. Although he had been wounded in the knee by a grenade splinters, he handled a very difficult situation, in the face of extremely heavy fire from the enemy, by outstanding leadership, initiative and courage he continued to inspire his company. Going forward, he brought in all wounded men who were lying outside the perimeter. Although suffering from pain from his wound, he refused to be evacuated, reconnoitring enemy positions, prior to the attack by his company. The attack opened on 6th May 1944, at dawn, with Captain Randle leading. One of the platoons reached the crest of the hill, whilst another ran into heavy machine-gun fire from a bunker. Captain Randle realised that the object must be to destroy this position, as it covered his line of communication as well as the rear of his position. Captain Randle, single-handedly, charged the enemy machine gun post, armed with a rifle and bayonet. Mortally wounded by continuous bursts of machine-gun fire he managed to reach the bunker. He then threw a grenade into the bunker, throwing his body across the slit in order to completely seal the blast.
Additional information:. Captain Randle was the brother-in-law of another VC., Flying Officer Leslie Thomas Manser, who was killed when his aircraft crashed in flames after he ordered the crew to bail out.
Captain Randall graduated from Oxford just prior to the commencement of the World War Two. He was called up and serve with the East Surrey's. He attended an OTC and was commissioned to the 2nd Battalion, Royal Norfolk Regiment. The Regiment was ordered to India in 1942.
It is believed by some, that Randle's sacrifice was one of the most heroic of the 2nd World War, along with the courage shown by Sapper William Hackett, who, in World War One, sacrificed his life, to stay with a wounded comrade in a collapsing tunnel, when he could have quite easily have saved his own life.

RANKEN, Harry Sherwood. (reg.No.1020).
Captain Royal Army Medical Corps attached to 1st Battalion King's Royal Rifle Corps
London Gazetted on 16th November 1914.
Born on: 3rd September 1883 at Glasgow, Scotland.
Died on: 25th September 1914 at Braine, France.
Memorial at Braine Cemetery, France.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 19 and 20 September 1914 at Haute-Avesnes, France, Captain Ranken was severely wounded in the leg whilst attending to his duties on the battlefield under shrapnel and rifle fire. He arrested the bleeding from this and bound it up, then continued to dress the wounds of his men, sacrificing his own chance of survival to their needs. Wheen he finally permitted himself to be carried to the rear his case had become almost desperate and he Died on within a short period. (More to follow)

RATCLIFFE, William. (reg No. 1021).
Private. 2nd Battalion. South Lancashire Regiment *
London Gazetted on the 2nd August 1917.
Born on 21st March 1882 at West Derby, Liverpool.
Died on 26th March 1963 at Liverpool, Lancashire.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
After an enemy trench had been captured at Messines, Belgium, on the 14th June 1917, a machine-gun position was firing on his comrades from the rear. Private Ratcliffe located the gun's position and single-handedly charged it, bayoneting the crew. He then brought the enemy gun into action in the front line. This soldier had displayed gallantry and great resource on many previous occasions, setting a fine example to his comrades.
*Prince of Wales' Volunteers.
Additional information:. No. 2251 Private Ratcliffe was the subject of an article in the Observer on 14th October 1917.
"Lord Derby was present yesterday evening at a dinner and presentation given at Liverpool by the National Union of Dock Labourers to one of their members, Private Ratcliffe, of the South Lancashire Regiment, who won the Victoria Cross for brave and distinguished conduct in the Messines ridge fighting. Lord Derby, responding to the toast of 'Navy and Army,' said that he was glad to find the proposed monetary presentation to Private Ratcliffe was not to take place, as it was against the military regulations to reward a man with money for doing his duty. But he cordially approved, as everyone else would, of the proposal to recognise their hero's bravery by making the presentation when he returned to civil life. He ventured to hope that at the present time there were no social graces. They were all British, fighting for a good cause. Many honours carried little weight in foreign countries, but the Victoria Cross was a soldier's honour known throughout the world as one which carried real merit, and if he could do anything by granting extra leave to enable Private Ratcliffe to earn the suggested Bar by matrimony, he would be pleased to do so. (Laughter).

RATTEY, Reginald Roy. (reg No. 1022).
Corporal. 25th Battalion. Australian Military Forces.
London Gazetted on 26th August 1945.
Born on 28th March 1918 at Barmedman, New South Wales, Australia.
Died on 8th January 1986 at West Wyalong, New South Wales, Australia.
Memorial on Australian War Memorial, Canberra, Australia.
Digest of Citation reads:
An Australian infantry company was making attack on a strongly held enemy position at Bougainville, in the Solomon Islands on 22nd March 1945, when they were subjected to extremely heavy fire. Corporal Rattey realised that any advance would be halted and heavy casualties inflicted by this fire, and rushing forward, nullified the enemy fire from the three forward bunkers, whilst firing his Bren gun from the hip. Then using a grenade he silenced one bunker, on fetching two more grenades silenced the remaining two bunkers. These obstacles removed, the company was able to continue advancing. At a later time, Corporal Rattey captured an enemy machine-gun and 2000 rounds of ammunition.

RAVENHILL, George. (reg No. 1023).
Private. 2nd Battalion. Royal Scots Fusiliers.
London Gazetted on 4th June 1901.
Born on 21st February 1872 at Birmingham.
Died on 14th April 1921 at Birmingham.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:.
Private Ravenhill left his sheltered position, several times on the 15th December, 1899 at Colenso, under extremely heavy fire, to assist the officers and drivers who were trying to withdraw several guns of the 14th and 66th Batteries, Royal Field Artillery, when the personnel serving them had been killed, wounded or driven back by infantry fire from point-blank range. He helped limber up one of the guns that were saved .
Additional information:. The Victoria Cross was presented to Private Ravenhill by the Duke of York (King George V) at Pietermaritzburg, South Africa on 4th June 1901. He was the son of Mr T Ravenhill, Warren Road, Washwood. He enlisted in the Royal Scots Fusiliers in May 1889, in the 1st Battalion. He served in the 1st Battalion, for almost six years, in India, and with the 2nd Battalion in the Boer War (1899-1902) for two years. He was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM), for action at Frederickstad, South Africa but on winning the Victoria Cross, this was cancelled. For the Relief of Ladysmith, the Transvaal and Cape Colony he received the Queen's and King's Medals with all three clasps.

RAYFIELD, Walter Leigh. (reg No. 1024).
Private. 7th Battalion. British Columbia Regiment. Canadian Expeditionary Force.
London Gazetted on 14th December 1918.
Born on 7th October 1881 at Richmond, Surrey.
Died on 19th February 1949 at Toronto, Canada.
Memorial on grave in Soldier's Plot, Prospect Cemetery, Toronto, Canada.
Digest of Citation reads:
East of Arras, France, from the 2nd to 4th September 1918, during operations, Private Rayfield rushed ahead of his company, to a trench occupied by a large number of the enemy, where he bayoneted two of them and took 10 prisoners. Later, on locating an enemy sniper, who was causing many casualties, Private Rayfield, with great skill, and under constant rifle fire, engaged the sniper. Then rushing the section of trench from where the sniper had operated, he so demoralised the enemy, by his daring and calm, that 30 more of them surrendered to him. Regardless of his own personal safety, he left , under cover of heavy machine-gun fire, to carry in a badly wounded comrade. "His indomitable courage, cool foresight and daring reconnaissance were invaluable to his Company Commander and an inspiration to all ranks."
Additional information:. No. 2204279, Private W. L. Rayfield was presented with the Victoria Cross at an Investiture held a Buckingham Palace on 8th March 1919, by His Majesty King George V.
He was promoted Corporal on 27th September, 1918 and then to Acting Sergeant on 7th January 1919. He left the Army on 25th May 1919. He was unmarried.

RAYMOND, Claud. (reg No. 1025).
Lieutenant. Corps of Royal Engineers.
London Gazetted on the 28 Memorial Rental and run in the Royal at Russia sower th June 1945.
Born on 2nd October 1923 at Mottistone, Isle of Wight.
Died of his wounds on 22nd March 1945 at Talaku, Burma, aged 21.
Memorial on grave at Taukkyan War Cemetery, Burma and in the Royal Engineers Museum at Rochester, Kent digest of Citation reads one second in command a reconnaissance patrol on 21st March 1945 at Telecom Burma and acting in conjunction with a large ditch and these have a special force they were fired on by strongly entrenched enemy detachment Kent .
Digest of Citation reads:
Whilst second in command of a reconnaissance patrol on 21st March 1945, at Talaku, Burma, and acting in conjunction with a larger detachment of a special force, they were fired upon by a strongly entrenched enemy detachment on the jungle slopes. Lieutenant Raymond immediately charged in the direction of the fire, being wounded in the right shoulder as he began to climb the hill. Ignoring his wound, and firing his rifle from the hip, he advanced up the hill. He had moved but a few yards, when a grenade, thrown by Japanese soldier, burst his face, severely wounding him. Getting to his feet, he continued, in spite of his loss of blood, to lead his section under intense fire. Hit a third time in the wrist, shattering it, he, unwavering, carried on into the enemy position, and was personally responsible for killing two Japanese and wounding a third. Lieutenant Raymond refused all offers of treatment, until several of those wounded, of his section, had been attended to. He died, the following day, from his wounds.

RAYNES, John Crawshaw. (reg No. 1026)
Sergeant. 'A' Battery. * Royal Field Artillery.
London Gazetted on 18th November 1915.
Born on 28th April 1887 at Ecclesall, Sheffield, Yorkshire.
Died on 13th November 1929 at Leeds, Yorkshire.
Memorial on grave at Harehills Cemetery, Leeds, Yorkshire.
Digest of Citation reads:
At Fosse 7 de Bethune, in France, on 11th October 1915 , Sergeant Raynes' battery was under heavy bombardment by armour- piercing and gas shells. 'Cease fire ' was ordered and the sergeant, under intense shellfire, went out, forty yards,to the aid of Sergeant Ayres, who was wounded. Bandaging the wounded man, he then returned to his gun when it was ordered into action. Another ceasefire order was given and Sergeant Raynes, with the help of two gunners, went out and brought Sergeant Ayres to safety. Both the other rescuers were killed a little later. When a gas shell burst at the entrance to the dug-out, Sergeant Raynes ran again, over open ground, to fetch his own smoke helmet and place it on Sergeant Ayres. Although badly gassed himself, he managed to stagger back to serve his gun. The following day, at Quality Street, a house was demolished by a heavy shell, burying four men. The first one rescued was Sergeant Raynes, and although wounded in both head and leg, he insisted assisting in the rescue of the others, under heavy shell fire. Once his wounds were dressed, he returned to his own gun, which was still being heavily shelled.
* 71st Brigade.
Additional information:. He was the son of Mr and Mrs Stephen Raynes of Sheffield. He married Mabel Dawson at the Leeds Registry Office on the 24th April 1907. They had one son John Kenneth who was born on 30th January 1912.

RAYNOR, William. (reg No. 1027).
Lieutenant. Bengal Veteran Establishment.
London Gazetted on 18th June 1858.
Born in July 1795 at Plumtree, Nottinghamshire.
Died on 13th December 1860 at for Ferozepore, India.
Memorial on Tablet erected over the old Gateway of the Delhi Magazine. *
Digest of Citation reads:
For gallant conduct in the defence of the Delhi Magazine on 11th May 1857. Nine men, one of whom was Lieutenant Raynor, defended the magazine for more than five hours against superior numbers of rebels. There being no hope of help coming, they fired the magazine, and when the magazine blew up, five of them died with it. The explosion also killed 1000 mutineers.
Additional information:. Rayner, Buckley, Willoughby and Forrest, all survived and were awarded the Victoria Cross.
A Tablet was erected over the old Gate of the Delhi Magazine. It contains the inscription:

On 11th May, 1857,
Nine Resolute Englishmen,
George Dobree Willoughby, Bengal Artillery,
in Command .
Lieut. William Raynor, Lieut. George Forrest, Conductor G. William Shaw, Conductor John Buckley, Conductor John Scully, Sub-Conductor William Crow, Sergt. Bryan Edwards, Sergt. Peter Stewart, defended the Magazine of Delhi for more than five hours against large number of rebels and mutineers, until, the wall being scaled, and all hope of succour gone, these brave men fired the Magazine. Five of the gallant band perished in the explosion, which at the same time destroyed many of the enemy.
This tablet,
marking the former entrance gate to the Magazine, is placed here by the Government of India.

READ, Anketell Moutray. (reg No. 1028).
Captain. 1st Battalion. Northamptonshire Regiment.
London Gazetted on 18th November 1915.
Born on 27th October 1884 at Bampton, Devon.
Killed in action on 25th September 1915 at Hulloch, France.
Memorials on his grave at Dud Corner Cemetery, France, on the War Memorial at Cheltenham, Gloucestershire and at Bampton Church, Devon.
Digest of Citation reads:
Although partially gassed, Captain Read went out several times on 25th September 1915, near Hulloch, France, to rally parties of disorganised units which were retiring. He led them back into the line and moved amongst them, encouraging them, regardless of any danger to himself. He was mortally wounded during this time. Captain Read had shown conspicuous bravery on the 29th 30th and 31st August 1915 during the digging operations. On the night of the 29th/30th July 1915, he displayed further courage when he carried out of action, a mortally wounded officer under a hail of bullets and grenades.
More to be added.

READE, Herbert Taylor. (reg No. 1029).
Surgeon. 61st Regiment. *
London Gazetted on 5th February 1861.
Born on 20th September 1828 at Perth, Canada.
Died on the 23rd June, 1897 at Bath, Somerset.
Memorial on grave at Locksbrook Cemetery, Bath..
Digest of Citation reads:
During the Siege of Delhi, India, on 14th September 1857, Surgeon Reade was attending to the wounded, at the end of one of the the city's streets, when a party of rebels advanced, from the direction of the Bank, towards where he was working. Having established a position, they started firing from the roofs of the nearby houses. This placed the wounded in extreme danger and susceptible to falling into enemy hands. Surgeon Reade called upon the few soldiers that were there, around 10 in all , and drawing his sword led them, under extremely heavy fire from the rebels, towards their positions and dislodged them. Two of his own men were killed and five or six wounded. Two days later, at the assault on Delhi, Surgeon Reade was amongst the first at the breach in the magazine, where he, and a sergeant, spiked one of the enemy's guns.
* Gloucestershire Regiment.
Additional information:. Surgeon-General Reade was a Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB). He was Principal Medical Officer of the Southern District from 1886 to his retirement in 1887. In 1895 he was the Hon. Surgeon to Queen Victoria.

READITT, John. (reg No. 1030).
Private. 6th Battalion. South Lancashire Regiment. *
London Gazetted on 5th July 1917.
Born on 19th January 1897 at Manchester, Lancashire.
Died on the 9th June 1964 at Clayton Bridge, Manchester.
Memorial on grave at Gorton Cemetery, Manchester.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 25th February 1917, whilst working down a deep water course, Private Readitt went forward five times at Alqayat-al-Gaharbigah Bend in Mesopotamia, (Iraq), each time in the face of very heavy machine-gun fire at close range. He was the sole survivor on each occasion. These advances drove back the enemy machine-guns, allowing 300 yards of water course to be made good in one hour. Private Readitt, on his own initiative, after his officer had been killed, organised and carried out several more advances. When he reached the enemy barricade, a counter attack forced him to retire, which he did by slowly giving ground, and continuously throwing bombs. When support reached him, he held a forward bend, using bombs, until the position had been consolidated. This action saved the Left flank, enabling his battalion to maintain the position.
* Prince of Wales Volunteers.
Additional information:. Sergeant Readitt received his Victoria Cross from King George V in November 1919, in an Investiture at Buckingham Palace.
Just months before the European War (WW I) started, he and his father, at their cobblers shop in Ashton New Road, Clayton, had 'clinched a deal ' to make, and maintain, football boots for Manchester United FC. Unfortunately John joined the South Lancashire Regiment and went off to war.. (This information was in the Manchester Evening News 21st March, 2000.
In 1921 he married and had three children, two sons and a daughter.
In April, 2000, his Victoria Cross was put up for auction at Spinks and raised £40,000.( See VC's at Auction Page)

REED, Hamilton Lyster. (reg No. 1031).
Captain. 7th Battery. Royal Field Artillery.
London Gazetted on 2nd February 1900.
Born on the 23rd May, 1869 at Dublin.
Died on 7th March 1931 at London.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
At the Battle of Colenso, South Africa, on 15th December, 1899, when many of the horses had become casualties, Captain REED who had heard of the difficulty, brought three teams of his own battery to see if they could be any use. He and five of his men, out of the 13, who rode with him, were wounded. Before he could get halfway to the guns, one was killed, and 13 of the 21 horses, including his own, were killed and they were compelled to retire.
Additional information:. Major General REED was made a Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB). And a Companion of the order of St Michael and St George (CMG). He was the son of Inspector-General of the Royal Irish Constabulary, Sir Andrew and Elizabeth (née Lyster ) Reed.
He was presented with the Victoria Cross by General Sir Redvers Buller VC on 4th March 1900 at Ladysmith, South Africa.
More to be added

REES, Ivor. (reg No. 1032).
Sergeant. 11th Battalion. South Wales Borderers.
London Gazetted on 14th September 1917.
Born on 18th October 1893 at Felinfoel, near Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, Wales.
Died on 12th March 1967 at Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, Wales.
Memorial in Havard Chapel, Brecon Cathedral and Llanelli Town Hall, Carmarthenshire.
At Pilkem, Belgium, on 31st July 1917, an enemy machine gun inflicted many casualties when it opened fire at close range. Sergeant Rees, leading his platoon, gradually worked his way round the right flank, by making short rushes, to the rear of the gun position. At 20 yards from the machine gun, Sergeant Rees rushed forward towards it, shooting one of the crew, and bayoneting the other. He bombed a large concrete emplacement, killing five of the enemy and taking 30 prisoners, including two officers and capturing a machine gun, undamaged.
Additional information:. In the Second World War, he served as a Sergeant-Major in the Home Guard.

REES, Lionel Wilmot Brabazon. (reg No. 1033).
Captain. Royal Artillery and Royal Flying Corps. *
London Gazetted on 5th August 1916.
Born on 31st July 1884 at Caernarfon, North Wales.
Died on the 28th September 1955 in the Bahamas.
On grave at Nassau War Cemetery, Bahamas and in St George's Royal Garrison Church, Woolwich, London.
Digest citation reads:
Sighting what he thought was a bombing party of our own aircraft returning from a bombing run, only to discover, as he approached to escort them, that they were 10 enemy machines. Captain Rees was attacked by one of the machines, and after a short fight, disappeared behind enemy lines, damaged. He was then attacked by five other aircraft at long range, but on coming closer, they dispersed. After seriously damaging two of the machines, he gave chase to another two, who he saw flying westwards. On getting closer, he got a wound in the thigh, which caused him to lose control of his aircraft, temporarily. When he managed to get it righted, he closed with the enemy, firing from the close range of a few yards, until all his ammunition was spent. He returned home, landing his machine safely in our lines.
* 32 Squadron.
Additional information:. Group Captain Rees also held the Order of the British Empire (OBE), the Military Cross (MC) and the Air Force Cross (AFC). Other 1st May 1917 he was made a Wing Commander in the Royal Flying Corps, carrying the same rank into the Royal Air Force when it was formed on the 1st April 1918. He went on to serve in the Royal Air Force until 1931, during which time he served as the Assistant Commandant at the Royal Air Force College, Cranwell from 1923-24. From 1926-29 the Commanded, as a Group Captain, the Headquarters of RAF Transjordan and Palestine , during which time, from 1925 he also served as ADC to King George V until 1931. He also commanded RAF Uxbridge from 1929-30 followed by the Command of 21 Group until 1931. He served in the Second World War in the Royal Air Force from 1941-42.
He sailed single-handed across the Atlantic, which took from late 1933 to January 1934 and he was awarded the Blue Water Medal for the feat. He also wrote a book called Fighting in the Air.

REEVES Thomas (Reg. No. 1034)
Seaman Royal Navy.*
London Gazetted on 24 February 1857.
Born in 1828 at Portsmouth, Hampshire
Died on 4th August1862 at Portsea, Hampshire.
Memorial He was Buried at Portsea Island General Cemetery. This cemetery was turned into Mile End Gardens then further changed into a Car Park. Finally it became the Cross Channel Ferry Port where a Plaque was placed in honour of Thomas Reeves.
Digest of Citation reads:
At the Battle of Inkerman, Crimea, On the 5th November,1854, when the Right Lancaster Battery was attacked and many of the soldiers were wounded, Seaman Reeves, along with four other Seamen, J.Gorman, M. Scholefield and two un-named others, who were killed during the action, mounted the defence work banquette** and, under withering fire from the enemy, kept up a rapid, repulsing fire. Their muskets being reloaded for them by the injured soldiers under the parapet and eventually the enemy fell back and gave no more trouble.
* Naval Brigade.
** Banquette:- A platform lining a trench, or parapet wall, where soldiers may stand whilst firing..
Additional Information: Died on of TB in 1862. Plaque unveiled at Ferry Port.. (See Below)

*Report in the journal (Horndean) 10th November 1999

Resting place of Crimean VC War hero is finally recognised.

A plaque has been unveiled commemorating the Portsmouth sailor who was one of the first military men to be awarded the Victoria Cross.
Exactly 145 years after naval gunner Thomas Reeves bravely fought off Russian troops, who had killed scores of soldiers from the Right Lancaster Battery, a ceremony was held at his final resting place in the city.
The 26 year old fired a barrage of shots at the enemy to defend the British position during the Battle of Inkerman in 1854.
He retired to Portsmouth but Died on of tuberculosis in 1862 and was buried at Portsea Island General Cemetery. This was later turned into Mile End Gardens; a Car Park and now the Cross Channel Ferry Terminal.
The plaque paying homage to his heroism was unveiled at the City's ferry port, where a car park has been built on the site of the sailor's last resting place.
It was paid for by the Royal Naval Association Victoria Cross Memorial Fund which works to ensure all graves of holders of the highest military bravery award in Britain.
Admiral Sir Derek Reffell, President of the RNA in the south, unveiled the plaque after a brief memorial service on Friday.
Thos Reeves was originally buried at Portsea Island General Cemetery. This was later turned into Mile End Gardens; then a Car Park and is now the Cross Channel Ferry Terminal.
The plaque paying homage to his heroism was unveiled at the City's ferry port, where a car park has been built on the site of the sailor's last resting place.(Photo.)

REID, Oswald Austin (Reg. No 1035)
Captain (later Major) 1st Battalion King's Liverpool Regiment attached tom the 6th Battn. The Loyal North Lancashire Regiment.
London Gazetted on 8th June 1917.
Born on: 2nd November 1893 at Johannesburg, South Africa.
Died on: 27th October 1920 at Johannesburg, South Africa.
Memorial at Braamfontein Cemetery, Johannesburg, S. Africa.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 8/10 March 1917 at Dailah River, Mesopotamia, Captain Reid consolidated a small post with the advanced troops on the opposite side of the river to the main body, after his lines of communication had been cut by the sinking of the pontoons. He maintained this position for 30 hours against constant attacks by bombs, machine-guns and rifle fire, with the full knowledge that repeated attempts at relief had failed and that his ammunition was all but exhausted. It was greatly due to his tenacity that the crossing of the river was effected the next night. During the operation he was wounded.
Additional information: Oswald Austin Reid was the son of Harry Austin Reed, one of the pioneers of Johannesburg and his wife Alice Gertrude Reid. He was formerly a Captain in the C-in-C's Bodyguard. (Lord Roberts' Regiment.) His mother, Gertrude was a pioneer of both Johannesburg and Kimberley. She was the daughter of the Mayor of Kimberley, George Bottomly, Justice of the Peace.
Oswald Reid was educated at the Diocesan College in Cape Town; St. John's College in Johannesburg and Radley College. He was senior prefect as well as being the Captain of the Football and cricket teams at Radley College.
In 1913 he played against the MCC for the Public Schools Eleven as captain.
On the 14th August 1914 he joined the 4th Battalion of the Liverpool Regiment as a 2nd Lieutenant where he went to fight in the European War (WW1) He was wounded in April 1915 and on his recovery he was joined the 1st Battalion of the Reiment only to be wounded again a year later.
The death of his CO in the line prevented him being Mentioned in Despatches on two occasions.
He went to Peshawar, serving in the Mohmand operations. At the formation of the Mesopotamian Expeditionary Force he was serving with the 6th Battalion of the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment seeing action at Kut, Baghdad and Samarah.
In December 1917 he was Mentioned in Despatches for his part in the capture of Baghdad by Sir Frederick Stanley Maude. He was wounded again in October 1917.
In April 1919 he went to Russia. His Father was presented with a sword for Captain Reid VC by the people of Johannesburg. He also held the King of Italy's Silver Medal for Military Valour.
He Died on the 27th of October 1920, six days before his 27th birthday. He is buried in the Braamfontein Cenetery in Johannesburg, South Africa.

REID, William. (Reg. No. 1036.)
Acting Flight Lieutenant 61 Squadron The Royal Air Force VR.
London Gazetted on 14th December 1943.
Born on 21st December 1921 at Glasgow, Scotland.
Died on 28th November 2001
Memorial not yet known
Digest of Citation reads:
On 3 November 1943 on the way to Dusseldorf, Germany, Flight Lieutenant Reid's was shattered by fire from a Messerschmitt and the gun turrets and cockpit badly damaged. Saying nothing of his multiple injuries, he comtinued on his mission and soon afterwards was attacked again, his navigator being killed and the wireless operator fatally wounded. He was wounded again, and also the flight engineer, while the Lancaster received more serious damage. Pressing on to his target, Flight Lieutenant Reid released his bombs, then set course for home and in spite of growing weakness from loss of blood, managed to land his crippled aircraft safely.
Additional information: His VC was presented a few days before his 22nd Birthday. He continued to serve as a pilot through several more raids on enemy targets before being shot down on the 31st July 1944. Reid and the radio operator were the only survivors and they were taken as prisoners of war.
He was the third son of William Reid, blacksmith of Glasgow (Baillieston). He was educated in Coatbridge secondary-school up in Baillieston. He joined the RAF V R in 1940.
four
He has one of the founder members of the Aircrew Association and was made a vice-president for life. In 1972 he went to Africa on promotional tour for the VC 10.
After the war he stuDied on and Glasgow University, graduating in 1949. In 1952 he married Violet Campbell Gallagher. It is said that she knew nothing of his Victoria Cross until they were married.
He joined the MacRobert Trust Farms Ltd and went to Australia, America, Canada, India and New Zealand to see their agricultural installations. He continued his work with the MacRobert Trust for nine years as an adviser on agriculture. (1950-9) for 20 years he worked for Spillers, running the milk production trial in London and Kenilworth at the National Dairy Event.
On his retirement in 1988 he moved Crieff .
He appeared on several occasions in public. He was last reported as one of the last 21 living VCs and was seen on TV in the 'Heroes' programme.
Two of the survivors from the raid on November 3rd 1943 were also decorated. Flight Sergeant James Norris, the flight engineer, got the CGM and Flight Sergeant Alfred Emerson, one of the aircraft's gunners got the DFM.
Flight Lieutenant Reid flew operations against V1 Rocket sites that were based in Occupied France.

RENDLE, Thomas Edward. (reg No. 1037).
Bandsman . 1st Battalion. Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry.
Born on the 14th December, 1884 at Bedminster , Bristol.
Died on 1st June 1946, at Cape Town, South Africa.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 20th November 1914, Bandsman Rendle attended to the wounded, near Wulverghem, Belgium, all the time under heavy rifle and shellfire. He rescued men, who had been buried in the trenches when the enemy heavy howitzer fire had blown in the parapets, causing the debris to envelop the occupants.
Additional information:. Sergeant Rendle held the Russian Order of St George, 4th Class. He was the son of James and Charlotte Rendle, his father being a painter and decorator. He was one of three sons and four daughters. On 7th February 1906, he married Lilian Crowe, daughter of a fellow bandsman W. Crowe . They had two children, a girl, Ruby Lilian Jessie (D O B., 23rd May, 1907) and a son, Edward William Wootton (D O B., 10th October, 1909).
More to be added.

RENNIE, William. (reg No. 1038).
Lieutenant. 90th Regiment *
London Gazetted on 24th December 1858.
Born on 31st October 1822 at Elgin, Morayshire, Scotland.
Died on 22nd August 1896 at Elgin, Morayshire, Scotland.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
In the advance upon Lucknow, India on 21st September 1857, he displayed great gallantry in having charged the enemy guns, in advance of the 90th Regiment's skirmishers, whilst under heavy musketry fire, he prevented them from taking away one of the guns, which was consequently captured. Again on the 25th September 1857, ahead of the 90th Column, he charged in the face of a very heavy fire of grapeshot, forcing the enemy to abandon their guns.
* Cameronians.
More to be added .

RENNY, George Alexander. (reg No. 1039).
Lieutenant. Bengal Horse Artillery.
London Gazetted on the 12th of April 1859.
Born on the 12th May 1825 at Riga, Russia.
Died on 5th January 1887 at Bath, Somerset.
Memorial on grave at Locksbrook Cemetery, Bath.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 16th September 1857 an attack was made, in the morning, on the Delhi Magazine, by the enemy. The attack was maintained for some time without the slightest chance of success. Under cover of continuous crossfire, the rebels advanced to the high wall of the Magazine and attempted to set alight the thatched roof. The thatch, which partially caught by fire, was extinguished by a Sepoy, a previous attempt by a soldier of the 61st Regiment having failed. When the roof was set on fire again, Lieutenant Renny, with great gallantry, reached the top of the wall of the Magazine, from where he flung many shells , with fuses lit, amongst the attacking force. The effect on the assault was immediate, it becoming weaker and eventually ceasing altogether at this point.
Additional information:. Major-General Rennie was educated at Addiscombe. He joined the Bengal Horse Artillery. He was promoted Lieutenant on 6th October 1846. He served at the Battle of Sobraen and throughout the Indian Mutiny between 1857-58. He was Mentioned in Despatches and received the Indian Mutiny Medal and Clasps.

REYNOLDS, Douglas. (reg No. 1040).
Captain. 37th Battery. Royal Field Artillery.
London Gazetted on 16th November 1914.
Born on 20th September 1882 at Clifton, Bristol.
Died of septicaemia, after being gassed, on 23rd February 1916 at Le Touquet, France.
Memorial on grave at Etaples Military Cemetery, France; On the War Memorial, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire: and on a headstone at Leckhampton Churchyard, Cheltenham.
Digest of Citation reads:
At Le Cateau, France, on 26th August 1914, Captain REYNOLDS took two teams of horses, along with volunteer drivers, Driver Luke and Driver Drain, to recapture two British guns,and limbered up two guns, under both heavy artillery and infantry fire, and in spite of the enemy being only 100 yards away, he got one gun away. On 9th September ,at Pysloup, France, he reconnoitred, at close range and under fire, and discovered a battery which was holding up the advance and silenced it.
Additional information:. Captain REYNOLDS was the son of Lieutenant Colonel H C REYNOLDS and his wife Eleanor, and the grandson of General REYNOLDS of the 11th Hussars. Educated at Cheltenham College, the Royal Military Academy at Woolwich he then oined the Royal Field Artillery in 1899 .

REYNOLDS, Henry. (reg No. 1041).
Captain. 12th Battalion. Royal Scots.
London Gazetted on 8th November, 1917.
Born on 16th August 1879 at Whilton, Northamptonshire.
Died on 26th March 1948 at Carshalton, Surrey.
Memorial on grave at St Giles Churchyard, Ashtead, Surrey.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 20th September 1917, Captain Reynold's company were suffering heavy casualties caused by a machine-gun and an enemy pillbox, at Zonnebeke, which had been missed by the first wave of the attack. Captain Reynold's men were scattered and disorganised. He got the men organised and then, proceeded alone, dashing from shell-hole to shell-hole, all the time under constant fire from a machine-gun. As he closed on the pillbox, he threw a grenade, unfortunately the entrance had been blocked by the enemy. Crawling to the entrance of the pillbox, he forced a phosphorus grenade inside. This caused the strong point to be set on fire, killed three of the enemy and forced the remaining seven or eight to surrender, along with two machine-guns. Although wounded, he led his company against another objective, and on its capture, took 70 prisoners and two more machine-guns. Captain Reynolds kept complete control of his men throughout the action, even though they were under heavy machine-gun fire, from the flanks, continuously.
Additional information:. Captain Reynolds also held the Military Cross (MC). He was the son of Thomas and Tryphena (née Godson) Reynolds. On 3rd October 1905, he married Gwendolen Jones and had three children, Thomas Henry William; Gwendolen Tryphena and Velia Rosemary .
He was recommended for a Commission in the Regular Army, in 1919, by Lieutenant Colonel Ritson, Commanding 12th Battalion, the Royal Scots.

REYNOLDS, James Henry. (reg No. 1042).
Surgeon Major. Army Medical Department. *
London Gazetted on the 17th June 1879.
Born on 3rd February 1844 at Kingsdown, Dublin.
Died on 4th March 1932 at London.
Memorial on grave at St Mary's Roman Catholic Cemetery, Kensal Rise, London.
On the 22nd/23rd January in 1879, at the Swedish Mission at Rorke's Drift, Surgeon Major Reynolds attended constantly to the wounded under fire. He also exposed himself to enemy crossfire, going and returning, as he conveyed ammunition from the store to the defenders.
* now Royal Army Medical Corps.
Additional information:. Lieutenant Colonel Reynolds was the son of Mr L Reynolds JP, Daliston House, Granard, Ireland. In 1880 he married Elizabeth McCormick.
His education was first at Castle Knock and then at Trinity College in Dublin.
More to be added.

REYNOLDS, William. (reg No. 1043).
Private. Scots Fusilier Guards.
London Gazetted on 24th February, 1857.
Born in 1827 at Edinburgh, Scotland.
Died on 20th October 1869 at London.
Memorial on grave at Brookwood cemetery, Woking, Surrey.
Digest of Citation reads:
At the Battle of Alma, in the Crimea, on the 20th September, 1854, Private Reynolds behaved in a conspicuous manner in rallying the men round the Colours, after the formation of the line had been disordered.
Additional information:. He enlisted in the Foot Guards of the Scots Fusiliers on 2nd April 1846. Served in the East from 1854-56. Saw action at the Battle of Alma, 15 miles north of Sebastopol, where 362 British were killed and 1621 wounded. Also at Balaclava, Inkerman and Sebastopol.
On the 15th October, 1867 , at his own request, he was discharged with a pension of 10 pence per day for life, aged 40. He completed 21 years service, with two Good Conduct Badges.

RHODES John Harold (Reg. No.1044)
Lance-Sergeant 3rd Battalion Grenadier Guards.
London Gazetted on 6th September 1918.?(1917)
VC Medal's Custodian is the Grenadier Guards Regimental HQ.
Born on 17th May 1891 at Mellor St., Packmore, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs.
Died on 27th November at Fontaine Notre Dame, France
Memorial at Rocquigny-Equancourt British Cemetery, France.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 9 October 1917 near Houthulst Forest, east of Ypres, Belgium, Lance-Sergeant Rhodes was in charge of a Lewis Gun covering the consolidation of the right front company. He accounted fro several of the enemy with his rifle as well as by Lewis gun fire and on seeing three of the enemy leave a pill-box he went alone through our barrage and hostile machine-gun fire and got into the pill-box. There he captured nine of the enemy including a forward observation officer connected by telephone to his battery. Lance-Sergeany Rhodes brought back these prisoners together with valuable information.
Additional information: 15122 L-Sgt J.H.Rhodes was the son of Ernest and Sarah Rhodes of Mellor St., Packmore, Staffs.. He attended Church Schools Newchapel. He married Lizzie Mier, daughter of Aaron and Elizabeth Mier on 11th Dec 1915 and had a son called John. He enlisted in the Grenadier Guards for three years on the 17th February 1911. He rejoined the Regiment from the Reservists at the beginning of hostilities in Europe in 1914. Whilst serving in France he was wounded in July 1915. On two occasions he showed great gallantry and was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal and Bar He was pothumously awarded the Victoria Cross..

RHODES-MOOREHOUSE William Bernard (reg,No. 888)
Second Lieutenant.* 2 Squadron, Royal Flying Corps.
London Gazetted on22 May 1915
Born on 26th September 1887 in London
Died on 27th April 1915 Merville, France.
Buried at his family home, Parnham House, Dorset; also a tribute at theTangmere Air Museum,.
Other Decorations
Additional Information: The first airman to perform an action subsequently rewarded with the VC; the ashes of his his son (Flying Officer W. Rhodes-Moorehouse), killed in action during the Battle of Britain, are interred by the side of his father at Parnham.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 26 April 1915 at Cortrai, Belgium, Second Lieutenant Rhodes-Moorehouse swept low over the rail junction which he had been ordered to attack. He released his 100lb. bomb, but was immediately plunged into a heavy barrage of small arms fire from rifles and machine-gun in the belfry of Cortrai Church, he was severely wounded by a bullet in his thigh and his plane was also badly hit. Returning to the Allied lines, he again ran into heavy fire from the ground and was wounded twice more. He managed to get his aircraft back, and insisted on making his report before being taken to Casualty Clearing Station where he Died on the next day.
*(Promoted Lieutenant w.e.f. 24 April 1915. He is listed amongst the RFC and RAF VCs at Tangmere Air Museum.

RICHARDS, Alfred Joseph. (reg No. 1045).
Sergeant. 1st Battalion. Lancashire Fusiliers.
London Gazetted on 24th August 1915.
Born on 21st June 1879 at Plymouth, Devon.
Died on 21st May 1953 at Southfields, London.
Memorial on grave at Putney Vale Cemetery, London.
Digest of Citation reads:
On the 25th April 1915, three companies and the Headquarters of the 1st Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers, whilst affecting a landing to the west of Cape Helles on the Gallipoli Peninsula, received a large number of casualties when they were met by an extremely deadly fire from hidden machine-guns. The survivors, amongst whom were, Sergeant Richards, Major Bromley, Corporal Grimshaw, Private Keneally, Sergeant Stubbs and Captain Willis, rushed forward and cut the enemy wire entanglements. In spite of the terrific fire from the enemy, and after overcoming the uttermost difficulties, they gained the cliffs and maintained the position.
Additional information:. This action was recorded in the newspapers as, "Five VCs before breakfast." Sergeant Richards, along with those mentioned above, were elected under Rule 13 of the Royal Warrant of 29th January 1856.
On the 30th of September 1916, he married Miss Dora Coombs, whom he'd met during his convalescence in a local hospital. The Guard of Honour, at his wedding, was formed by his wounded comrades.
His right leg had to be removed owing to the severity of the wounds he'd received at Gallipoli.

RICHARDSON, Arthur Herbert Lindsay. (reg No. 1046).
Sergeant. Lord Strathcona's Horse. Canadian Forces.
London Gazetted on 14th September 1900.
Born on the 23rd September, 1872 at Southport, Lancashire.
Died on 15th December 1932 at Liverpool, Lancashire.
Memorial on grave at St James's Cemetery, Liverpool.
Digest of Citation reads:
At Wolwespruit, South Africa, 38 personnel of Lord Strathcona's Horse were engaged at close-quarters by an enemy force, around 80 in number. After the order had been given to retire, Sergeant Richardson, under very heavy crossfire, rode back and picked up a Trooper, who was wounded in two places, and
whose horse had been shot from under him, and rode with him, under fire, to safety. Sergeant Richardson, himself, was at the time of this act of gallantry, within 300 yards of the enemy and his own horse had been wounded.

RICHARDSON, George. (reg No. 1047).
Private. 34th Regiment. *
London Gazetted on 11th November 1859.
Born on 1st August 1831 at Derrylane, Killashandra, County Cavan, Ireland.
Died on 28th January 1923 at Ontario, Canada.
Memorial on grave at Veteran's Section, Prospect Cemetery, Toronto, Canada.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 27th April 1859, Private Richardson showed determined courage when, although severely wounded, one arm actually disabled, closed with, and secured a mutineer who was armed with a broad revolver. This act took place at Keware Trans-Gogra, India.
* Border Regiment.

RICHARDSON, James Cleland (reg No. 1048)
Piper 16th Battalion Manitoba Regiment (Canadian Scottish) C E F.
Born on 25th November 1895 at Bellshill, Lanarkshire, Scotland.
Died on 9th October 1916 at Regina trench, Somme, France.
Memorial at Adanac Military Cemetery, France.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 8th October, 1916 at Regina trench, Somme, France, the company was held up by very strong wire and came under intense fire. Piper Richardson, who had obtained permission to play the company 'over-the-top' strode up and down outside the wire playing his pipes, which so inspired the company that the wire was rushed and the position captured. Later the piper was detailed to take back a wounded comrade and some prisoners, but after preceding some distance he insisted on turning back to recover its pipes which he had left behind. He was never seen again.

RICHHPAL RAM. (reg No. 1049).
Subadar * 6th Rajputana Rifles. Indian Army.
London Gazetted on 4th July 1941.
Born on 27th August 1899 atTehsil, Patiala State, India.
Killed in action on 12th February, 1941 at Keren, Eritrea.
Memorial at Keren Cremation Memorial, Eritrea.
Digest of Citation reads:
Subadar Richhpal Ram led a successful attack on the enemy on 7th February 1941, at Keren, Eritrea, and subsequently repelled six counter-attacks. Then, with no shots left, brought the few surviving members of his company back. On the 12th February, 1941, whilst leading an attack against the enemy, his right foot was blown off. He continued to give encouragement to his men, until he died from his wounds.
*Captain

RICKARD, William Thomas. (reg No. 1050).
Quartermaster. Royal Navy.
London Gazetted on 24th February 1857.
Born on 10th February 1828 at Stoke Damarel, Devonport, Devonshire.
Died on 21st February 1905 at Ryde, Isle of Wight.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
In the Sea of Azov, in the Crimea, Quartermaster Rickard of HMS Weser, went with Commander Commerell and Able-Seaman Milestone to destroy large quantities of forage stored on the shore of the Sivash. They eventually reached the objective, a corn magazine, after a difficult and dangerous journey in a small boat, hauled across the Spit of Arabat, sailing across the Sivash to the shore. They managed to set fire to the stacks, but this alerted the guards and they gave chase, firing on the three men. The Seaman, badly fatigued by the frenzy of the pursuance, fell in the mud and was unable to free himself. Quartermaster Rickard, himself exhausted, went back to assist the seaman. The three men finally reached HMS Weser. The lookouts reported that the storage magazine had burned to the ground.
Additional information:. Quartermaster Rickard also held the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal (CGM) and the French Légion d'Honneur.

RICKETTS, Thomas. (Reg. No. 1051)
Private 1st Battalion Royal Newfoundland Regiment. CEF.
London Gazetted on 6th January 1919.
Born on: 15th April 1901 at Middle Arm, White Bay, Newfoundland.
Died on: 10th February 1967 at St John's, Newfoundland.
Memorial at: Anglican Cemetery, Forest Rd., St. John's, Newfoundland.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 14 October 1918 at Ledeghem, Belgium, Private Rickets volunteered to go with his section commander and a Lewis gun in an attempt to out-flank an enemy battery causing casualties at pointy blank range. Their ammunition was exhausted when still 300 yards from the battery and the enemy began to bring up their gun teams. Private Rickets doubled back 100 yards under the heaviest machine-gun fire, procured ammunition and dashed back again to the Lewis gun. They then drove the enemy and gun teams into a farm and the platoon was able to advance. They captured four field guns, four machine-guns and eight prisoners.
Additional information: Thomas Ricketts was the son of John and Amelia Ricketts. His father was a fisherman of Middle Arm, Newfoundland. He joined the army at the age of 15, whilst still a schoolboy, giving his age as 18. Whilst serving in the European War (WW1) he was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal and the French Croix de Guerre(with Golden Star) When he was presented with his Victoria Cross by King George V at the investiture in York Cottage at Sandringham, the King introduced Private Rickets to a Bishop, who was also in the room, saying, "This is the youngest VC in my Army."

RIDGEWAY, Richard Kirby. (reg No. 1052).
Captain. Bengal Staff Corps. *
London Gazetted on 11th May, 1880.
Born on 18th August 1848 at Oldcastle, County Meath, Ireland.
Died on 11th October 1924 at Harrogate, Yorkshire.
Memorial at Lawnswood Crematorium, Leeds , Yorkshire.
Digest of Citation reads:
Captain Ridgeway showed conspicuous gallantry throughout the attack on Konoma, India, on 22nd November 1879. In the final assault he rushed up to a barricade, attempting to tear down the surrounding planking, in order to gain entrance. It was during this act that he received a severe bullet wound in his left shoulder.
* And 44th Gurkha Rifles.
Additional information:. Colonel Ridgeway was created Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG). He was the son of Richard and Annette (née Adams) Ridgeway of Cavanagh, County Cavan, Ireland. In 1871 he married Amy, (Emily Maria) Fallan.
Educated at a private school he then went on to the Royal Military College, Sandhurst. He joined the 96th Regiment as an Ensign (8th January 1868)-- promoted Lieutenant (14th Feb 1870)-- transferred to Indian Staff Corps (1872)-- became Adjutant 44th Gurkha Rifles (1874-80).
He served in both of the Naga Hills Expeditions, he was Mentioned in Despatches in the first (1875), and in the second expedition (1879-80), he was severely wounded, was Mentioned in Despatches, recieved the Medal and clasp and was awarded the Victoria Cross. In 1891-95 he commanded the 44th Gurkha Rifles. He took part in the Manipur Expedition in 1891 and in 1897 in the Tirah Campaign, receiving Medals and Clasps for each.

RIGGS, Frederick Charles. (reg No. 1053).
Sergeant. 6th Battalion. York and Lancaster Regiment.
London Gazetted on 6th January 1919.
Born on 28th July 1888 at Bournemouth, Hampshire.
Killed in action on the 1st October 1918 at Epinoy, France.
Memorial on Vis-en-Artois Memorial, France.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 1st October 1918, near Epinoy, France having led his platoon, under heavy fire, through strong uncut barbed-wire, kept straight on and although losing heavily from the flanking fire, successfully reached the objective, where he rushed and captured a machine-gun. Using two captured machine guns to great effect, he caused the surrender of 50 of the enemy. When the enemy again advanced in force, Sergeant Riggs cheerfully encouraged his men to withstand the attack. Whilst strongly urging his men to resist to the last, Sergeant Riggs was killed.
Additional information:. Sergeant Riggs also held the Military Medal. He was the son (adopted when he was five years old) of Mrs Burgam of 39, Capstone Road, Bournemouth. Educated at Malmesbury Park Council School, Bournemouth.
Prior to joining the Army on 4th September, 1914, he was employed, by Messrs Pickford and Sons, Removals and Carriers. He began his army career as a Private in the 11th Hussars. He was transferred to the York and Lancaster Regiment in the 6th Battalion and was sent to France in 1915. He was moved to Gallipoli where he stayed until the evacuation, after which, he was sent to Egypt. He was eventually returned to France, where he was wounded on the Somme. He convalesced in England, and on his recovery was sent back to France. Sergeant Riggs was killed on the 1st October 1918.

RIPLEY, John. (reg No. 1054).
Corporal. 1st Battalion. Black Watch. *
London Gazetted on 29th June 1915.
Born on 30th August 1867 at Keith, Banffshire, Scotland.
Died on 14th August 1933 at St Andrews, Fife, Scotland.
Actual Memorial not known. Fife area.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 9th May 1915 at the Rue de la Boir, France, whilst leading his section in the assault on the right of his platoon, he was the first soldier to mount the German Parapet, from where, he directed the way through the gaps in the barbed wire entanglements, to his followers. His section followed him through a breach in the Parapet into the second line trench, which was the final objective in this part of the line. Corporal Ripley, along with seven or eight men, established themselves, blocked both flanks, set up a firing position, which they continued to defend until all Corporal Ripley's men had fallen, and he himself, had received a severe wound in his head.
* Royal Highlanders.

RITCHIE, Henry Peel. (reg No. 1055).
Commander. Royal Navy.
London Gazetted on 10th April 1915.
Born on 29th January 1876 at Melville Gardens, Edinburgh, Scotland.
Died on 9th December 1958, aged 83, at Craig Royston House, Edinburgh, Scotland.
Cremated at Warriston Crematorium, Edinburgh, Scotland.
Digest of Citation reads:
At Dar-ess-Salaam, in East Africa, on 29th November 1914, Commander Richie of HMS Goliath, whilst in command of searching and demolition operations aboard a small steam vessel fitted with a Maxim gun , showed most conspicuous bravery. Although wounded several times, Commander Richie fortitude and resolution enabled him to do his duty, inspiring all around him by his example, until his final wound, the eighth, caused him to become unconscious from loss of blood.
Additional information:. Commander Richie was the first naval officer in World War One (WW I) to win the Victoria Cross. (The Deed, not the Gazetted date.)
The harbour was peaceful, white flags were flying from the harbour flagstaffs. Accompanied by two small craft they entered the harbour unchallenged. They sailed around the harbour sinking, or seriously damaging, virtually anything that floated. Still not a shot had been fired. The Konigsberg was disabled, Ritchie himself having gone on board. Whilst on board the second ship, Kaiser Wilhelm II, Commander Richie's suspicions were aroused when, although the ship was almost deserted, he saw a clip of Mauser bullets. He lashed two steel lighters to his small vessel, one each side. They would serve, if they got into shallow water, as a warning when they struck the bottom first. This would make it possible for the steamboat to be released and make their getaway. Firing started, even though white flags were flying. When they headed the strange craft out of the harbour, they were met by a hail of shells and bullets coming from every direction. Commander Richie was wounded, then Petty Officer Clark and Able Seaman Upton were severely injured and unable to carry out their duties. Commander Richie took charge of the ships wheel. His eighth and final wound took him out of action altogether. Sub Lieutenant Loyd had been severely wounded also, so Petty Officer Clarke took over once more, directing the ship to the safety of the open sea.
Petty Officer Thomas Clark received Conspicuous Gallantry Medal (CGM), and Able Seaman George Upton was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal (DSM). Able Seaman Upton lost his life when HMS Goliath was sunk.

RITCHIE, Walter Potter. (reg No. 1056).
Drummer. 2nd Battalion. Seaforth Highlanders *.
London Gazetted on 6th September, 1916.
Born on 27th March 1892 at Glasgow, Scotland.
Died on 17th March, 1965 at Edinburgh, Scotland.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
To the North of Beaumont Hamel, France, on 1st July 1916, Drummer Ritchie, under heavy machine gun fire and bombs, continually sounded the "Charge" whilst standing on the parapet of an enemy trench. This served to rally many men of the various units who, having lost their commanders, were wavering and wanting to retire from the fighting. During the day, over ground that was swept by enemy fire, Drummer Ritchie carried messages.
* Duke of Albany's Ross-shire Buffs.

RIVERS Jacob(Reg. No.1057
Private 1st Battalion Sherwood Foresters (Nottinghamshire And Derbyshire Regiment.).
London Gazetted on 28th April 1915.
VC Medal's Custodian is the Sherwood Forester's Museum, Nottingham Castle, Nottingham.
Born on 17th Nov 1881 at No 4, Court 12, Wide Yard Derby.
Died on 12th March 1915 at Neuve Chapelle in France.
Memorial Le Touret Memorial France; His Mother's grave, Nottingham Rd., Cemetery, Derby.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 12th March 1915 at Neuve Chapelle, France, Private Rivers, on his own initiative, crept to within a few yards of a very large number of the enemy who were massed on the flank of an advanced company of his battalion, and hurled bombs on them. His action caused the enemy to retire, and so relieved the situation. Private Rivers performed a second similar act of great bravery on the same day, again causing the enemy to withdraw. He was killed on this occasion.

ROBARTS, John. (Reg No. 1058)
Gunner Royal Navy.
London Gazetted on 24th February 1857
Born in 1818 at Chacewater, Cornwall.
Died on 17th October 1888 at Southsea, Hampshire.
Memorial on grave atHighland Road Cemetery, Portsmouth.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 29 May 1855 in the Sea of Azov, Crimea, Gunner Robarts of HMS Ardent with two lieutenants*, one from HMS Miranda and the other from HMS Swallow, volunteered to land on a beachwhere the Russian army were in strength.. They were out of covering gunshot range of the ships offshore and met considerable enemy opposition, but managed to set fire to corn stores and ammunition dumps and destroy enemy equipment before embarking again.
* Lt.C.W. BUCKLEY(Reg. No.145) and Lt.H.T. BURGOYNE. (Reg. No.151)
For his services in the Crimea, Gunner Robarts was made a Knight of the Legion of Honour.
His death was announced in The Times of the 8th October 1888 saying,"'Our Portsmouth Correspondent says, 'The death is announced of Mr John Robarts VC, a retired Gunner in the Navy at his residence at Southsea.' "
A similar announcement was made in 'The Naval and Military Record'. For the 25th October 1888 it stated, "The death is announced of Mr John Robarts, a retired Chief Gunner, Royal Navy, who won the Victoria Cross for his bravery in the Black Sea during the Crimean War. The deceased, who has resided at Southsea, was just over 68 years of age."
More to add.

ROBERTS, Frank Crowther. (Reg No. 1059).
Lieutenant Colonel Commanding 1st Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment.
London Gazetted on 8th May 1918.
Born on 2nd June 1891 at Highbury, Middlesex.
Died on 12th January 1982 at Stanhope Bretby, Burton-on-Trent, Staffordshire.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
During the period 22nd March/ 2nd April 1918 West of Somme and at Pargny, France, Lieutenant Colonel Roberts show exceptional military skill in dealing in the many very difficult situations of the retirement and amazing endurance and energy in inspiring all ranks under his command. On one occasion the enemy attacked a village and had practically cleared it of our troops when Colonel Roberts got together an improvised party and led a counter-attack which temporarily drove the enemy out of the village, thus covering the retirement of troops on their flanks. The success of this action was entirely due to his personal valour and skill.
Additional information: Major-General Robert also held up the Distinguished Service Order (DSO); the Order of the British Empire (OBE) and the Military Cross (MC).

ROBERTS, The Honourable Frederick Hugh Sherston. (reg No. 1060).
Lieutenant. King's Royal Rifle Corps.
London Gazetted on 2nd February 1900.
Born on 8th January 1872 at Umballa, India.
Died of his wounds on 17th December 1899 at Chieveley, Natal, South Africa.
Memorial on grave her at Chieveley Cemetery, Natal, South Africa and on the King's Royal Rifle Corps Memorial in Winchester Cathedral, Hampshire.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 15th December 1899, in South Africa, during the Battle of Colenso, Lieutenant Roberts and others tried to save the guns. The detachments of the 14th and 66th batteries, who had been serving the guns had all either been killed, wounded, or driven from their guns by enemy infantry fire, from close range. A Donga, which lay approximately 500 yards behind the lines, in which, some of the drivers and horses left alive were sheltering. The space between being devastated with shell and rifle fire. In the Donga, Captain CONGREVE of the Rifle Brigade, assisted and hooking up of a horses team into a limber, then went out and assisted in the limbering up of a gun. Being wounded, he took shelter but when he saw that Lieutenant Roberts was badly wounded and had fallen, he went out and brought the lieutenant in. Major Babtie, of the Royal Army Medical Corps, having done what he could for the wounded men, galloped across to Captain CONGREVE amid a hail of heavy rifle fire to help him. Captain CONGREVE was wounded through the leg, and foot, was grazed on the elbow and shoulder and his horse was also wounded in three places. Lieutenant Roberts, although wounded in three places, but he went to the captain's assistance.
Additional information:. Lieutenant Roberts was the son of the Right Honourable Earl Roberts VC.

ROBERTS, Frederick Sleigh. (reg No. 1061).
Lieutenant. Bengal Artillery.
London Gazetted on the 24 th December 1858.
Born on 30th September, 1832 at Cawnpore, India.
Died from a chill (influenza?) On 14th November 1914 at St Omer, France.
Memorials at St Paul's Cathedral, an equestrian statue in Horse Guards Parade, London and in theSanctum Crypt of St Luke's Church, Chelsea, London.
Digest citation reads: ROBERTS, Frederick Sleigh. (reg No. 1061).
Lieutenant. Bengal Artillery.
London Gazetted on the 24 th December 1858.
Born on 30th September, 1832 at Cawnpore, India.
Died from a chill (influenza?) On 14th November 1914 at St Omer, France.
Memorials at St Paul's Cathedral, an equestrian statue in Horse Guards Parade, London and in Sanctum Crypt of St Luke's Church, Chelsea, London.
Digest citation reads:
At Khudagunge on the 2nd January, 1858, whilst following up the retreating enemy, Lieutenant Roberts saw two Sepoys, running away with the standard, some way in the distance. Spurring his horse, he gave chase and overtook them just before they could enter the village. They turned their muskets on him and one of the Sepoys fired at the Lieutenant, but fortunately the caps snapped. This officer then rode on, cutting down the man who was carrying the standard and he took possession. On the same day, he had saved the life of a sowar who was being attacked by a sepoy with a musket and bayonet. Lieutenant Roberts raced to the assistance of the sower, and with one blow of his sword, killed the sepoy on the spot.
More to be added

ROBERTS, James Reynolds. (reg No. 1062).
Private. 9th Lancers. *
London Gazetted on 24th December 1858
VC Medal Custodian is 9th/12th Lancers Regimental Museum, The Strand, Derby.
Born in 1826 at Bow, London.
Died on 1st August 1859 at Marylebone, London.
Memorial not known.
Digest of Citation reads:
Although wounded whilst carrying out this act of bravery, Private Roberts brought in a mortally wounded comrade, through a street that was under heavy musketry fire on 28th September 1857 at Bolandshahr, India.
* Queen's Royal.

ROBERTS, Peter Scawen Watkinson. (reg No. 1063).
Lieutenant. Royal Navy.
London Gazetted on 9th June 1942.
VC Medal held Privately.
Born on 28th July 1917 at Chesham Bois, Buckinghamshire.
Died on 8th December 1979 at Newton Ferrers, Devon.
Memorial at Holy Cross Churchyard. (Cremated at Efford, Plymouth, Devon.)
Digest of Citation reads:
On 16th February 1942, HM Submarine Thrasher attacked and sank, in daylight, a supply ship under heavy escort. She was immediately attacked by aircraft and bombs and depth charges from the escorts. On surfacing, after dark, the submarine began to roll and it was discovered that two unexploded bombs were in the gun casing. Lieutenant Roberts and Petty Officer Gould * immediately volunteered to remove them. They were of an unknown type. The removed the first bomb, wrapped it in sacking and manhandled it to the bows, where they dropped it overboard. To reach the second bomb they had to go through the casing, it being so low that they had to lie flat, at full length, in order to move inside it. In complete darkness, they pushed and pulled the bomb for around 20 feet or so before it could be lowered over the side. This act of courage was made more difficult, because HM Submarine Thrasher's whereabouts were known to the enemy. Had the submarine been attacked, it would have dived and the two men would have been drowned.
* reg No. 471.

ROBERTSON, Charles Graham. (reg No. 1064).
Lance-Corporal. 10th Battalion. Royal Fusiliers.
London Gazetted on 9th April 1918.
Born on 4th July 1879 at Penrith, Cumberland.
Died on 10th May 1954 at Dorking, Surrey.
Memorial on grave at Dorking Cemetery, Surrey.
Digest of Citation reads:
For conspicuous bravery in repelling a strong attack by the enemy on the 8th/9th March, 1918 near Polderhoek Chateau, Belgium. Realising that they were cut off, Lance-Corporal Robertson sent two men to get reinforcements, whilst remaining at his post, along with one other man, firing his Lewis gun and killing large numbers of the enemy. No reinforcements came. Realising that he was completely cut off, he withdrew, with the only other survivor, took a place 10 yards to the rear. Here he successfully defended his position, staying for some time, firing his gun and inflicting casualties on the enemy. He was forced to withdraw again when the position came under heavy hostile bombing and machine-gun fire. Arriving at a defended post, he and a comrade mounted a machine gun in a shell-hole. From this position they kept up a continuous fire at the enemy who were now pouring into an adjacent trench. They had not been firing long when his comrade was killed. Lance-Corporal Robertson was to also wounded. In this condition he crawled back with his machine gun, being unable to fire it as he had exhausted all of the ammunition.
Additional information:. Army No. G 58769, Lance-Corporal Robertson was the only son of James and Catherine Robertson, and a native of Penrith, Cumberland. After being educated in Dorking High School, he became a booking clerk. He served in the Boer War as a trooper with the Middlesex Yeomanry. He was also awarded the Military Medal in the First World War.

ROBERTSON, Clement. (reg No. 1065).
Captain. Special Reserve, Tank Corps. *
London Gazetted on 18th December 1917.
Born on 15th December 1890 at Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.
Killed in action on 4th October 1917 at Zonnebeke, Belgium.
Memorial on grave at Oxford Road Cemetery, Ypres, Belgium.
Digest of Citation reads:
For most conspicuous bravery whilst leading his tanks in an attack under extremely heavy shell, machine gun and rifle fire, over terrain which had been ravaged by shellfire. Knowing the risk of the tanks losing their way, Captain Robertson and his batman had, for three days and nights, been reconnoitring and recording the available routes they would take. With this in mind, he opted to lead the tanks on foot. Although he must have known that this practice would almost certainly cost him his life, he continued to lead the tanks to their objective. His skilful and brave direction, during this operation, ensured the success of the action. He was killed after the operation had been achieved successfully.
* Late of Queen's Royal West Surrey Regiment.

ROBERTSON, James Peter. (reg No. 1067).
Private. 27th Battalion. Manitoba Regiment. * Canadian Expeditionary Force.
London Gazetted on 11th January 1918.
Born on 26th October 1883, at Stellarton, Picton, Nova Scotia.
Killed in action on the 6th November 1917 at Passchendaele, Belgium.
Memorial on grave at Tyne Cot Cemetery, Passchendaele, Belgium.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 6th November 1917, at Passchendaele, Belgian, when his platoon was held up by uncut barbed-wire and an enemy machine-gun that was causing many casualties, Private Robertson rushed to an opening on the flank, attacked the machine-gun, he struggled with the crew, killed four of them, turned the gun on the fleeing remainder, who were terrified by his fierceness, as they ran for the safety of their own lines. His gallant work allowed his own platoon to advance. After inflicting several casualties on the enemy, he carried the captured machine gun to his final position and opened fire on the demoralised, retreating enemy. His determined fire subdued the enemy snipers. His actions, of courage and calm, in the face of the enemy were an inspiration to his comrades, spurring them on to greater efforts. Later, under extremely heavy fire, he went out to rescue two of our snipers, from in front of the trench, badly wounded. He was killed just as he rescued the second man.
* Winnipeg .
Additional information:. 552665, Private James Robertson was the son of a Alexander and Janet Robertson, of Stellarton, Picton, Nova Scotia. They were of Scottish descent. He was educated at Springhill, Nova Scotia. His Victoria Cross was presented to his mother, Mrs Janet Robertson at Medicine Hat, Alberta, by Lieutenant Governor Brett on 25th April 1918. Three of his brothers, Dave, Alex and John, also volunteered for the forces, but his brother John was turned down: unfit for military service. His brother Alex was wounded and spent nearly a year in hospital, before being returned to France. Alex and his brother Dave, were still serving in France when the armistice was signed.

ROBERTSON, William. (reg No. 1068).
Sergeant-Major. 2nd Battalion. Gordon Highlanders.
London Gazetted on 28th July 1900.
VC Medal's Custodian is the National War Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh.
Born on the 27th February, 1865 at Dumfries, Scotland.
Died on the 6th December 1949 at Edinburgh, Scotland.
Memorial long grave at Portobello Cemetery, Musselburgh, Scotland.
Digest of Citation reads:
During the final advance on the enemy's position at the Battle of Elandslaagte, South Africa, on the 21st October 1899, Sergeant-Major Robertson exposed himself fearlessly, to the enemy's artillery and rifle fire, as he led each successive rush in an effort to encourage his men. After the capture of the main position, Sergeant-Major Robertson led a small party in an attempt to seize the Boer Camp. Exposed to a deadly crossfire from the Boer rifles, his small party gallantly held the position that they had captured. All the time the Sergeant-Major continued to encourage the men. This he did, until he was wounded in two places.
Additional information:. Lieutenant Colonel William Robertson was made a Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE). He was made a Freeman of the Royal Burgh of Dumfries on his return from South Africa. He had the Queen's South Africa Medal with Clasps for Ladysmith, Elandslaagte and the Cape Colony.
On the 29th March 1891, he married Sara J. Ferris of Belfast. They had four children, William J., born on 18th February , 1892 who served in the Royal Army Medical Corps;--- Marion M.;--- Ian Gordon, born 18th August 1897. He served in the Gordon Highlanders, as a Lieutenant and was killed in action at Beaumont Hamel, and finally,the fourth, Hector E. Robertson.
More to be added.

ROBINSON, Edward. (reg No. 1069).
Able Seaman. Royal Navy (Naval Brigade).
London Gazetted on 24th December, 1858.
VC Medal's custodian is the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich.
Born on 17th June, 1838 at Portsea, Hampshire.
Died on 2nd October, 1896 at Windsor, Berkshire.
Memorial on grave at Old Windsor Cemetery, Windsor, Berkshire.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 13th March 1858 at Lucknow, India, some sandbags on top of the earthworks were on fire. The enemy were only 50 yards away at this time, but able Seaman Robinson, under heavy fire, jumped up and extinguished the fires in some of the bags and threw others clear. He was severely wounded.

ROBINSON, Eric Gascoigne. (reg No. 1070).
Lieutenant Commander. Royal Navy.
London Gazetted on 16th August 1915.
Born on 16th May 1882 at Greenwich, London.
Died on 20th August 1965 at Haslar, Hampshire.
Memorial on grave at Langrish Churchyard, Langrish, Hampshire.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 26th February 1915, in the Dardanelles, Lieutenant Commander Robinson, of HMS Vengeance, advanced alone, all the time under heavy fire, going into an enemy gun position, which could well have been occupied. With a charge, he destroyed a four inch gun, then returned to his crew, to obtain another charge, with which he destroyed the second gun. The Lieutenant Commander refused to allow his demolition crew to accompany him, as they were wearing white uniforms, which were not conducive to being inconspicuous. The Lieutenant Commander took part, all the time under extremely heavy fire, in four separate attacks on the minefields.
Additional information:. Rear Admiral Robinson, was awarded the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, (OBE). More to be added.

*REPORT IN THE PETERSFIELD POST. 10 NOVEMBER 1999.

WE WILL REMEMBER HIM:

DEFIANT GUNNER WHO WON A VC.

Langrish residents have special reason to commemorate their dead on Remembrance Sunday- the tiny village was the home for two holders of the Victoria Cross, the country's highest gallantry award.
Ernest George Horlock and Eric Gascoigne Robinson were virtually forgotten until recently.
In August 1998 a headstone was erected over the previously unmarked grave of Rear Admiral Gascoigne Robinson.
Battery Sergeant Major Horlock was buried 82 years ago in the British Military Cemetery in Alexandria, Egypt.
Petersfield British Legion Chairman, Harry Hawkins said, "We weren't aware Langrish was home to two VC holders; that certainly is special."
"We didn't know about Ernest Horlock VC and at our next meeting we will look at maybe holding a service for him or erecting a memorial."
BSM Horlock was awarded his VC after he was wounded in action during a German attack at Vendresse on September 15 1914. He was wounded three times. Twice he ignored doctors orders to leave the battle and go to hospital, for which he was later reprimanded. He was subsequently recommended for the VC and was later promoted to Sergeant
BSM Horlock Died on in October 1917 (This is incorrect. He Died on the 30 December 1917.) when the ship in which he was travelling to Alexandria was torpedoed 10 miles from harbour.
The destroyer, HMS Attack, staged a rescue, but was also torpedoed. BSM Horlock was among the 610 killed.
Born on at Beech Farm, Alton on October 24 1885, he moved, with his family, to Laundry Cottage near Langrish. His two brothers Fred and John were also killed in the war.
On February 22 1914 he enlisted in the Royal Field Artillery under the name of Harlock for which, two explanations are put forward.
The first, favoured by the press of the day, was that he was too young to enlist, so was passing himself off as someone older. The other explanation, that the army later altered his documentation to his correct name, was that the enlisting sergeant couldn't understand the broad Hampshire accent.
BSM Horlock, then a Bombardier, was one of the 'contemptible little army' as the Kaiser labeled them, who tried to halt the German advance into France.
He was serving with the 113th Battery when a German attack was launched at Vendresse. The battery's 18 pounder guns came under fire from the German artillery and he was wounded three times. On each of the first two occasions doctors ordered him to hospital, but he ignored them and returned to his gun. The third time he refused to see the doctor as he was 'scared of getting a rocket' for continuing to fight,
The story of how he gained his VC soon became legend. He became known as the gunner who 'defied the doc.'
· Rear Admiral Robinson was awarded his VC for an action on February 26 1915, when he single handedly blew uo two Turkish guns with a field gun at the Battle of the Dardanelles.
· At 11am tomorrow, a bugler is due to play the Last Post and Reveille in Ram's Walk, Petersfield, as shoppers and shop staff observe the two minutes silence. A simple wreath laying ceremony will take place at the Burma Star memorial at the Festival Hall, organized by the British Legion.

ROBINSON William Leefe. (.Reg No 1071)
Lieutenant The Worcester Regiment 39 Squadron, Royal Flyiing Corps.
Other Decorations:
London Gazetted on 5 September 1916
Born on: 14th July 1895. Tollideta, South Coorg, India
Died on: 31st December 1918 at Stanmore Middlesex.
Memorial at: Harrow Weald (All Saints) Churchyard Extension, Middlesex.

Digest of Citation reads:
On the night of2/3 December 1916 over Cufley, Hertfordshire, Lieutenant Robinson sighted a German airship;
one of 16 which had left bases in Germany on a mass raid over England. The Lieutenant started an attack at a
height of 11,500 feet approaching from below and, closing to within 500 feet, raked the aircraft (A wooden
framed Schutte Lanz) with gunfire. As he was preparing to make another attack, the airship burst into flames and
crashed in a field.No witnesses were needed in the award to Lieutenant Robinson. The wreckage spoke for itself
when it hit the ground.When the airship was attacked it almost came down on top of Lieutenant Robinson. He
was shot down over enemy lines later in the war. He was taken prisoner and as such, he made many attempts to
escape. He was released from captivity on the cessation of hostilities in 1918. Unfortunately he died from
influenza on the 31st December 1918.Captain Robinson was engaged to Joan Whipple, the widow of Captain H
C Whipple, who had been killed in action in December 1914.

ROBSON, Henry Howey. (reg No. 1072).
Private. 2nd Battalion. Royal Scots. *
London Gazetted on 18th February 1915.
Born on the 27th May, 1894 at South Shields, County Durham.
Died on 4th March 1964 at Toronto, Canada.
Memorial on grave in the Military Section of the York Cemetery, Toronto, Canada.
Digest of Citation reads:
Private Robson climbed from his trench, under extremely heavy fire and rescued a wounded non-commissioned officer, during an attack near Kemmel, France, on 14th December 1914. During another attack, later, he attempted to rescue another wounded man and bring him to cover again exposed to heavy fire. During this attempt he was wounded almost immediately, but persevered, with the attempt, until he was made helpless when he received his second wound. On 13th November 1916, he was seriously wounded again at Serres-on Ancre .
* Lothian Regiment.
Additional information:. Private Robson was the son of Mr and Mrs Robson, of Shotton Bridge, Durham.

RODDY, Patrick. (reg No. 1074).
Ensign. Bengal Army.
London Gazetted on 12th April 1859.
VC Medal is privately held.
Born on 17th March 1827 at Elphin, Roscommon, Ireland.
Died on 21st November 1895 at Jersey, Channel Islands.
Memorial on grave at Mount A'Labbe Cemetery, St Helier, Jersey.
Digest of Citation reads:
For gallant conduct on several occasions. Also on the date of 27th September 1858, Ensign Roddy, when engaged with the enemy, charged a rebel, who was armed with a percussion musket, when the cavalry were afraid to approach, because each time they did so, the rebel took aim on his assailant. This did not deter Ensign Roddy, who charged in. When he was within six yards, the rebel fired, the shot killing the ensign's horse. Before he could disentangle himself from the horse, the rebel attempted to cut him down. The Ensign managed to seize and hold the rebel until he could draw his sword, he then ran the rebel through. The rebel was a powerful man and had been a Subadar in the 8th Native Infantry.
Additional information:. Colonel Roddy, apart from serving in the Indian Mutiny, saw service in the Abyssinian War of 1868, he was Mentioned in Despatches, receiving the Brevet of Major and the Campaign Medal. In 1878-79 he was Mentioned in Despatches again while serving in the Afghan War and received the Afghan Medal and Clasp, Ali Musjid. In 1887 he retired as Colonel from the Bengal Service after 39 years.

RODGERS, George. (reg No. 1075).
Private. 71st Regiment. *
London Gazetted on 11th November 1859.
VC Medal's Custodian is Royal Highland Fusiliers Museum, Glasgow, Scotland.
Born in January 1829 at Govan, Glasgow, Scotland.
Died on 9th March 1870 at Glasgow, Scotland.
Memorial, an unmarked grave on common ground, Southern Necropolis, Glasgow, Scotland.
Digest of Citation reads:
At Marar, Gwalior, India, on the 16th June 1858, Private Rodgers, on his own, attacked a party of seven rebels, killing one of them. This was remarked as a valuable service, as the party of rebels were well armed and strongly positioned in the line of advance of a detachment of the 71st Regiment.
* Highland Light Infantry.

ROGERS, James. (reg No. 1076).
Sergeant. South African Constabulary.
London Gazetted on 18th April 1902.
VC Medal's Custodian is the Australian War Memorial, Canberra, Australia.
Born on 2nd June 1875 at Riverina, New South Wales, Australia.
Died on the 28th October, 1961 at Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Cremated at Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, Australia and remembered on the Australian War Memorial, Canberra, Australia.
Digest of Citation reads:
, 15th June 1901, near Thaba N'chu, South Africa, a party consisting of Lieutenant F. Dickinson, Sergeant James Rogers, and six men of the South African Constabulary was suddenly attacked by 60 Boers. Lieutenant Dickinson's horse had been shot and was forced to follow his men on foot. Seeing the situation, Sergeant Rogers, rode back to the Lieutenant, firing as he did so and took up the Lieutenant behind him on the horse. Sardine Rogers then returned to carry away two more men, who had lost her horses, within 400 yards of the enemy. He then went on to catch the horses of two other men and helped them remount. Throughout this action they came under extremely heavy rifle fire. The Boers were so close to Sergeant Rogers that they called upon him to surrender. His reply was to continue firing on them.
Additional information:. Captain James Rogers also served in Gallipoli, where he was wounded on the 4th August 1915, returning to Australia, as an invalid, on 10th June 1916.

ROGERS, Maurice Albert Windham. (reg No. 1077).
Sergeant. 2nd Battalion. Wiltshire Regiment.
London Gazetted on 10th August 1944.
VC Medal's Custodian is the Royal Gloucestershire, Berkshire and Wiltshire Regimental Museum.
Born on 17th July 1919 at Bristol.
Killed in action on 3rd June 1944 at Anzio, Italy.
Memorial on grave at Beach Head War Cemetery, Anzio, Italy.
Digest of Citation reads:
A carrier platoon was held up by concentrated machine-gun fire and barbed wire entanglements at Anzio, Italy, on 3rd June 1944. Sergeant Rogers, armed with a Thompson machine-gun, forced his way through the barbed wire, ran across a minefield and accounted for two of the enemy posts. His platoon, approximately 100 yards behind, was so inspired that they also advanced in the assault. Unfortunately before they could reach him, Sergeant Rogers had been wounded in the leg. In spite of this wound, he continued to advance until he was eventually shot from point-blank range.
Additional information:. Sergeant Rogers also held the Military Medal (MM).

ROGERS, Robert Montresor. (reg No. 1078).
Lieutenant. 44th Regiment. *
London Gazetted on 13th August 1861.
Born on 4th September 1834 at Dublin, Ireland.
Died on the 5th February 1895 at Maidenhead, Berkshire.
Memorial on grave at All Saints Churchyard, Maidenhead, Berkshire.
Digest of Citation reads:
Lieutenant Rogers, Private John McDougall, of the same regiment and Lieutenant Lenon, of the 67th Foot Regiment, showed conspicuous gallantry by swimming across the ditches and entering the North Taku Fort, through an embrasure **, during the assault on the fort. They were first of the English established on the walls of the fort. They entered in the order that the names recorded here, each one assisting the other to mount the embrasure.
* Essex Regiment.
** A small opening in the parapet of a fortified building, splayed on the inside.
Additional information:. Major General Rogers was also made a Companion of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath. (CB). He joined the 44th Regiment in February 1855, serving in the Crimean War, being present at the fall of Sebastopol, for which he received the Medal and Clasp. He served in China in 1860, taking part in the action at Sinho. At the storming of the Taku Forts, he was severely wounded. During the Zulu Wars of 1879, taking part in the actions at Zunyin Nek and Kambulah, whilst in command of the 90th Regiment.

ROLLAND, George Murray. (reg No. 1079).
Captain. 1st Bombay Grenadiers. Indian Army. *
London Gazetted on 7th August 1903.
Born on the 12th May 1869 at Wellington, India.
Died, from the effects of a fall, on 9th July 1910 at Nagpur, India.
Memorial on grave at Takli Cemetery, Nagpur, India, and St Stephen's Church, South Kensington, London.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 22nd April 1903, returning after the action at Daratoleh, the rearguard was considerably to the rear of the main column, owing to the thick bush and the fact that they had to hold their ground whilst the wounded were placed onto the camels. Captain Bruce was shot and was unable to move. Captain's Walker and Rolland, along with two men of the King's African Rifles, one Sikh and one Somali, were with him when he fell. Captain Rolland ran back 500 yards to get assistance, the others remaining with Captain Bruce, keeping the enemy, who were situated around them, in the bushes, successfully at bay. The wounded captain was hit again and the Sikh wounded. Had it not been for these officers and men, Captain Bruce would have fallen into enemy hands.
* Whilst acting as Intelligence Officer to the Berbera Bohottle Flying Column.
Additional information:. Major Rolland was the son of Major Patrick Murray Rowland and his wife Albinia, (née Crofton). His mother was a successful novelist. Educated at Harrow and the Army College at Sandhurst, he joind the Bedfordshire Regiment in 1889 as a Second Lieutenant. Two Years later he was promoted to Lieutenant then to Captain in November 1900. More to be added.

ROOM, Frederick George. (Reg No.1080).
Private * 2nd Battalion. Royal Irish Regiment.
London Gazetted on 17th October 1917.
Born on 31st May at Ashley, Bristol.
Died on 19th January 1932 at Bristol, aged 36.
Memorial on grave at Greenbank Cemetery, Bristol.
Digest of Citation reads:
On the 16th August, 1917, at Frezenberg, Belgium, Private Room, in charge of his company's stretcher-
bearers,showed conspicuous bravery. During the day, the company suffered many casualties caused by a
machine-guns and snipers. Whilst the company was holding the line of shell holes and trenches, Lance-Corporal
Room work tirelessly, all the time under intense enemy fire, dressing wounded and aiding their evacuation to
safety. Throughout this period, he showed complete disregard for his own safety and an incessant devotion to his
duties. Owing to his courage and fearlessness he saved many of his comrades lives. *Army No. 8614 Private (
was anActing Lance-Corporal) Room at the time he won this award.

ROOPE, Gerald Broadmead. (reg No. 1081).
Lieutenant Commander. Royal Navy.
London Gazetted on 10th July 1945.
Born on 13th March 1905 at Hillbrook, Taunton, Somerset.
Drowned, after fighting in action, on 8th April 1940 at West Fjiord, Norway.
Honoured on Portsmouth Naval Memorial, Hampshire.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 8th April 1940, in the West Fjiord, Norway, H M S Glowworm engaged two enemy destroyers, who broke
off the action when one of them was hit. Whilst giving chase, the German heavy cruiser Admiral Hipper, bore
down on the Glowworm at high speed. During the engagement, the Glowworm was badly hit, putting one gun
out of action and causing her to reduce speed. With all the remaining guns firing she closed on and rammed the
Hipper. As she pulled away, she opened fire on the German ship, again scoring a hit. Badly damaged, the smaller
ship heeled over and sank. The Hipper picked up 31 survivors. Lieutenant Commander Roope was seen helping
survivors to put on their lifejackets. After being thrown a rope from the Hipper, he was unable to hold on and
was drowned.
Additional information:. Lietenant-Commander Roope was the first person to be awarded the Victoria Cross in
World War II. (WWII) His Victoria Cross was awarded, posthumously. In a ceremony at Buckingham Palace on
12th February 1946, His Majesty King George VI presented it to his widow, who was accompanied by her son,
Michael, who was serving as a Cadet in the Royal Navy.

ROSAMUND, Matthew. (reg No. 1082).
Sergeant-Major. 37th Bengal Native Infantry.
London Gazetted on 23rd August 1858.
Born on 13th July 1823 at Eaton Socon, Huntingdonshire.*
Died on 14th July 1866 in the Red Sea.
Memorial not known: Buried at sea.
Digest of Citation reads:
Sergeant-Major Rosamund volunteered to accompany his commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel Spottiswoode,
of the 37th Bengal Native Infantry, to set fire to the right of the lines, the intention being to drive out the Sepoys,
on the evening of the 4th June 1857, during the outbreak at Benares, India. Sergeant-Major Gill, of the Loodiana
Regiment and Private John Kirk, of the 10th Regiment, also volunteered to go along to bring out Captain Brown,
his wife and infant, along with some others, who were in a detached bungalow, and take them into the barracks
for safety.
* In the Records, There are three birthplaces record, the other two are, Swallow Cliffe, Wiltshire and Seaton
Town, Bedfordshire.
Additional information:. Being the son and a grandson, of soldiers, it was only natural that he would become
one himself. He served in the second Sikh War at Chilianallah and also at Gujerat, where the British suffered
killed, and 682 wounded to the enemy's, 2000 killed or wounded. Both these actions took place under General
Lord Gough. He was serving with Neil, when he disarmed the Indian troops, during the Mutiny.
His Victoria Cross sold for £54 the London on 25th November 1903.

ROSS, John. (reg No. 1083).
Corporal. Corps of Royal Engineers.
London Gazetted on 24th February 1857.
Born in 1822 at Inch, Stranraer, Wigtownshire, Scotland.
Died on 23rd October 1879 at London.
Unmarked Grave at Islington Cemetery, London.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 21st July 1855, at Sebastopol, Crimea, a working party of 200 men went out, each carrying an entrenching
tool and a gabion *, under the charge of Corporal Ross. Before morning they had connected the distance from
the 4th parallel right attack, to an old Russian rifle pit with a long line of perfect cover. Whilst under very heavy
fire, on 23rd August 1855, with Corporal Ross in charge of the advance from the 5th parallel right attack on the
Redan, they filled 25 gabions and placed them in position. On the night of the 8th September 1855, he crept to
the Redan, where he reported the enemy's evacuation and carried back a wounded man . Taking advantage of this
information, the British took place.
* Gabion:- a cylindrical basket of metal or wicker, used, by engineers, for filling with earth or stones, for
fortifications or buildings
Additional information:. Army No. 997, Corporal John Ross was decorated by Queen Victoria during the
Investiture at Hyde Park on 26th June 1857. He was later promoted to Sergeant.

ROUPELL, George Rowland Patrick. (reg No. 1084).
Lieutenant. 1st Battalion. East Surrey Regiment.
London Gazetted on the 23rd June, 1915.
Born on 7th April 1892 at Tipperary, Ireland.
Died on 4th March 1974 at Shalford, Surrey.
Cremated at Guildford. Memorial in Regimental Chapel, Parish Church, Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey.
Digest citation reads:
At Hill 60, Belgium, on 20th April 1915, Lieutenant Roupell, whilst commanding a company of his battalion, they
were subjected to an extremely severe bombardment, from the enemy, throughout the day. Even though he was
wounded several places, he led his company in repelling a large enemy assault. His wounds were attended to and
dressed, during a lull in the shelling. He insisted on returning to his trench which, was again, under heavy
bombardment from the enemy. His company suffered and was dangerously weakened. He went back to
headquarters, informed his commanding officer of the situation, and brought up reinforcements. He passed to and
fro across ground that was strafed by heavy fire. With the reinforcements, he held a position until his battalion
could be relieved the following morning.
More to be added.

ROWLANDS, Hugh. (reg No. 1085).
Captain. 41st Regiment *
London Gazetted on 24th February, 1857.
Born on 6th May 1828 at Llanrug, Caernarvonshire, Wales.
Died on the 1st August 1909 at Llanrug, Caernarvonshire, Wales..
Memorial on grave at St Michael's churchyard, Llanrug , Caernarvon, Wales.
Digest of Citation reads:
At Inkerman on 5th November 1854, Captain Rowlands rescued Colonel Hayly of the 47th Regiment, who was
lying on the ground wounded and surrounded by Russians. Acting with great gallantry he held the
ground, occupied by the advance picquet, against the enemy at the commencement of the Battle of Inkerman.
* Welch Regiment.
See also Private McDermond. (reg No. 771).
Additional information:. General Sir Hugh Rowlands was also a Knight Commander of the Bath. (KCB) he also
held the Legion d'Honneur of France.
Promoted Quartermaster General in 1880 and from 1884-89 he was a General Officer Commanding the 1st
Bangalore Division; Lieutenant of Tower of London for a short time in 1893. From 1894-96 he was the General
Officer Commanding the Scottish District. He was also the Deputy Lieutenant of the Welsh County of
Caernarvon
More to be added.

RUSHE, David. (reg No. 1086).
Troop Sergeant-Major. 9th Lancers. *
London Gazetted on 24th December, 1858.
Born on 28th April 1827 at Woburn, Bedfordshire.
Died on 6th November 1886 at Great Marlow, Buckinghamshire.
Memorial on grave at Marlow Churchyard,, Buckinghamshire.
Died is to citation reads:
For displaying conspicuous bravery, on 19th March 1858, at Lucknow, India, when with another soldier, he
attacked eight mutineers that were posted in a Nullah, killing three of them.
* Queen's Royal.
Additional information:. David Rushe was later to be promoted to Regimental Sergeant- Major.

RUSSELL, Sir Charles. (reg No. 1087).
Brevet-Major. 3rd Battalion. Grenadier Guards.
London Gazetted on the 24th February, 1857.
VC Medal's Custodian is the Guards Regimental Headquarters.
Born on 22nd June 1826 at Sothern Hill, Reading, Berkshire.
Died on 13th April 1883 at Reading, Berkshire.
Memorial, interred in Family Vault in All Saints Church, Swallowfield.
Digest of Citation reads:
At the Battle of Inkerman, in the Crimea, on 5th November 1854, Brevet-Major Sir Charles Russell offered to go and dislodge a party of Russians if anyone would accompany him. The volunteers included Sergeant Norman, Private Anthony Palmer and Private Bailey. Their example was soon followed. Sir Charles killed the first Russian, who barred his way, with a pistol. They met with heavy resistance, but their skill with a bayonet brought success. During the action, Private Bailey was killed. Major Russell fought bravely, and in single combat, with a Russian, wrenched the rifle from his grasp.
Additional information:. Lieutenant- Colonel Sir Charles Russell, was the second surviving son of Sir Henry (Bart) and Marie-Clotilde (née Mottet de la Fontaine) Russell. He was educated at Eton, joined the 35th Regiment in Ireland and served with it in Mauritius. His commission, in the Grenadier Guards, was given to him by the Duke of Wellington, a personal friend of his father's. He saw action at the Battle of Alma, Balaclava, Inkerman and Sebastopol.
Private Bailey, who was killed in the action, could possibly also have been awarded the VC, like Private Anthony Palmer. The Cross was not presented posthumously at that time.

RUSSELL, John Fox. (reg No. 1088).
Captain. Royal Army Medical Corps. *
London Gazetted on 11th January 1918.
VC Medal's Custodian this the Army Medical Services Museum, Aldershot, Hampshire.
Born on 27th January 1893 at Holyhead, Anglesey.
Killed in action on 6th November 1917, at Tel-el-Khuweilfeh, Palestine.
Memorials; on grave at Beersheba War Cemetery, Palestine;on the War Memorial, Holyhead, Anglesey;
the Middlesex Hospital, London and at the Royal Army Medical Corps HQ. London.
Digest of Citation reads:
Captain Russell continually went out to attend to the wounded, all the time under extremely devastating fire
from machine-guns and snipers. Many times, when no other means were at hand, he carried the wounded in
himself, even though he was exhausted. He was finally killed in action.
* Attached to 1st/6th (116th?) Battn. Royal Welch Fusiliers.
Additional information:. Captain Russell also held the Military Cross (MC).

RUTHERFORD, Charles Smith. (reg No. 1089).
Lieutenant. 5th Canadian Mounted Rifles.* Canadian Expeditionary Force.
London Gazetted on 15th November 1918.
VC Medal has private owner.
Born on the 9th January 1892 at Haldimand Township, Ontario, Canada.
Died on 11th June 1989 at Ottawa, Ontario.
Memorial on grave at Union Cemetery, Colbourne, Ontario.
Digest of Citation reads:
Whilst in command of an assault party on 26th August 1918, at Monchy, France, Lieutenant Rutherford
found that he was a considerable distance ahead of his men. Almost at the same moment, ahead of him, he
sighted a fully armed strong enemy party outside a pillbox. With his revolver he beckoned them to come
towards him. They, in turn, indicated that they wanted him to go to them. This he did and informed them that
they were now his prisoners. The German officer disputed this and invited the lieutenant into the pillbox.
Lieutenant Rutherford declined the offer. He managed, by bluffing, to convince the officer that they were
surrounded and the whole party of the enemy, 45 in all, including two officers and three machine-guns,
surrendered to him. He also convinced the enemy officer to halt the fire of an enemy machine gun close by,
taking advantage of the situation to move his men up in support. The Lieutenant then noticed that the right
assaulting party was being held up by fire from another pillbox. He attacked the pillbox with a Lewis gun,
taking another 35 prisoners, along with their machine guns, enabling the assault party to continue their
advance. He was an inspiration to all those who saw him.
*Quebec Regiment.
Additional information:. Captain Rutherford also held the Military Cross (MC) and the Military Medal
(MM). He was the son of Mrs Mabella Rutherford, of the Post Office in Colbourne, Ontario. He joined the
Canadian Forces in March 1916 as a Private.

RUTHVEN, William. (reg No. 1091).
Sergeant. 22nd Battalion. * Australian Imperial Force.
London Gazetted on 11th July 1918.
VC Medal's Custodian is the Australian War Memorial, Canberra.
Born on 21st May 1893 at Collingwood, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Died on 12th January 1970 at Victoria, Australia.
Memorial at Fawkner Crematorium, New Melbourne Cemetery and the Australian War Memorial, Canberra, Australia.
Digest of Citation reads:
During the attack on Ville- sur- Ancre, France, on 19th May 1918, Sergeant Ruthven's company suffered
heavy casualties and he assumed command when his company Commander was severely wounded. He took
charge of the company headquarters and rallying the section in his vicinity, led the men in this part of the
assault. As they approached their objective, they were subjected to very heavy enemy machine-gun fire from
close range. Without hesitating, Sergeant Ruthven leapt out and threw a bomb which landed beside the post,
rushing on to the position and bayoneting one of the crew and capturing the gun. He encountered some of
the enemy coming out of a shelter. He wounded two of them and captured six more. After handing them
over to an escort from the leading wave, Sergeant Ruthven, reorganised his men and established a post in the
second objective. On the sunken Road nearby he observed enemy movement. Without hesitating and armed
only with a revolver, he rushed over the open ground to the position, killing two Germans who refused to
come out of their dug out, then single-handedly, he mopped up this post and captured 32 prisoners, holding
them until assistance arrived. Throughout the rest of the day he gave his men encouragement and
determination as he paced up and down their position. He set a fine example to his men by his courage and
his fighting spirit.
* Victoria.
Additional information:. He was promoted to Second Lieutenant on 16th August 1918. He was presented
with the Victoria Cross at Buckingham Palace, in a private Investiture, by his Majesty King George V.

RYAN, John. (reg No. 1092).
Private. 1st Madras Fusiliers. *
London Gazetted on 18th June 1858.
VC Medal's Custodian is the National Army Museum, Chelsea, London.
Born in 1823 at Kilkenny, Ireland.
Died on 4th March 1858 at Cawnpore, India.
Memorial on grave at to British Cemetery, Cawnpore, India.
Digest of Citation reads:
On the 26 September 1857, rebels Sepoys besieged a party in a house in Lucknow, India. Private Ryan along with a Private McManus (reg No. 806) , of the 5th Regiment, dashed into the street, brought Captain Arnold from a dhooly* and took him into the house, all the time under heavy fire which caused Captain Arnold to be wounded again. Private Ryan distinguished himself throughout the day by devoting himself to the rescue of the wounded, in the vicinity, and prevent their being massacred. He examined every dhooly to ensure that it was empty.
* 102nd Foot, The Royal Dublin Fusiliers.
* A covered litter .

RYAN, John. (reg No. 1093).
Private. 55th Battalion. * Australian Imperial Force.
London Gazetted on 26th December, 1918.
VC Medal's Custodian is the Australian War Memorial, Canberra, Australia.
Born in February 1890 at Tumut, New South Wales, Australia.
Died on 3rd June 1941 at Melbourne, Australia.
Memorial on grave at Springvale Cemetery, Melbourne, and on the Australian War Memorial, Canberra, Australia.
Digest of Citation reads:
Private Ryan went forward with great courage and determination on 30th September 1918, during an attack on the Hindenburg defences. In the first attack, he was one of the first to reach the enemy trench and despite heavy firing, he amazed his comrades with his skill and daring, and soon, the enemy garrison was defeated and the trench occupied. The Germans succeeded, after a counter-attack, in establishing a bombing party to their rear. Now under fire from both, front and rear, in order to maintain this critical position, prompt action was necessary. Private Ryan, weighing up the situation, organised and led a party of men, against the enemy bombers, and by using bomb and bayonet he finally reached his objective with only three men. By skilful use the bayonet, the small party killed the first three Germans on the flank, then moved along the Embankment. Private Ryan, with the remainder of the bombs, rushed alone against the enemy. He was wounded after he had driven back the enemy, who, as they retired across no man's land, suffered heavily. There was no doubt that Private Ryan had saved a most dangerous situation.
* New South Wales.

RYAN, John. (reg No. 1094).
Lance-Corporal. 65th Regiment. *
London Gazetted on 16th January 1864.
VC Medal's Custodian is the York and Lancaster Museum, Rotherham, Yorkshire.
Born in 1839 at Barnsleigh, Tipperary, Ireland.
Drowned on 29th December 1863, whilst attempting to effect the rescue of a comrade at, Tukuan, New Zealand.
Buried in an unmarked grave in Alexandra Redoubt Cemetery, Auckland, New Zealand.
Digest of Citation reads:
On the 7th September, 1863, Lance-Corporal Ryan, along with Privates Bulford and Talbot, all three of the 65th Regiment, went and removed the body of the late Captain Smith, from the field of action, after he had been mortally wounded, and afterwards remaining with it all night in a bush, being surrounded by the enemy.
* York and Lancaster Regiment.
Additional information:. No. 261 Lance-Corporal John Ryan was drowned trying to rescue a comrade near Tukuan, New Zealand. His two colleagues, Private Bulford and Private Talbot were awarded the DCM. Lance-Corporal Ryan's Victoria Cross was sold for £58 on 17th April 1902 in London.

RYAN, Miles. (reg No. 1095).
Drummer. 1st Battalion. European Bengal Fusiliers. *
London Gazetted on 24th December 1858.
VC Medal's Custodian not known.
Born in 1826 at Londonderry, Ireland.
Died in January 1887, believed to be in Bengal, India.
No known memorial or burial place.
Digest of Citation reads:
On 14th September 1857, when the brigade had reached the Cabul Gate, during the assault on Delhi. The 1st Fusiliers, the 75th Regiment and some Sikhs were awaiting orders. Some of the Regiments were being issued with ammunition when, from some unknown cause, three boxes of ammunition exploded and two more were in a state of ignition. Drummer Miles and Sergeant McGuire rushed in and picking them up, threw them over the parapet, one at a time, into the water. The explosion had caused great confusion among the troops and native followers, who had no idea where the danger lay, many were running into certain destruction, when Drummer Ryan and Sergeant McGuire, by their coolness and daring, and at great personal risk, had saved many lives.
* Royal Munster Fusiliers.
Additional information:. Regimental number 1874, Drummer Ryan was discharged from service on 16th May 1859 on a pension of one shilling a day. His date and place of his death are a mystery. It is known that he was alive in January 1887 because he was reported in the quarterly army list of the recipients of the Victoria Cross for January 1887. His medal must be in private ownership.

RYDER, Robert Edward. (reg No. 1096).
Private. 12th Battalion. Middlesex Regiment. *
London Gazetted on the 26th November, 1916.
VC Medal's Custodian is the Imperial War Museum, Kennington, London.
Born on the 17th in December 1895 at Harefield, Middlesex.
Died on the 1st December 1978 at Hucknall, Nottinghamshire.
Memorial on grave at Harefield Middlesex and on a plaque inside a Middlesex Guildhall, Westminster.
Digest of Citation reads:
Private Ryder's company was held up by heavy rifle fire, and all the officers had become casualties, at Thiepval, France on the 26th September, 1916. The attack was wavering, owing to lack of leadership, when Private Ryder, realising the situation, and without a thought for his own well-being, rushed an enemy trench alone and with skilful handling of his Lewis gun succeeded in clearing the trench. This gallant act greatly inspired his comrades and made their subsequent advance possible: turning failure into success.

RYDER, Robert Edward Dudley. (reg No. 1097).
Commander. Royal Navy.
London Gazetted on 21st May 1942.
VC Medal's Custodian is the Imperial War Museum, Kennington, London.
Born on 16th February 1908 in India.
Died in the English Channel on the 29th June 1986.
Memorial at Headington Crematorium, Oxford.
Digest of Citation reads:
Commander Ryder commanded a force of small unprotected ships during the attack on San Nazaire, France, on 28th March 1942. He led HMS Campbeltown under intense fire from short-range weapons at point-blank range. The main object of beaching HMS Campbeltown had been accomplished, but Commander Ryder remained on the spot for one hour and 16 minutes, conducting operations during the evacuation of the Campbeltown's men, dealing with enemy strong points and close-range weapons, all the time being exposed to heavy fire. He didn't retire until the ship could be of no further use in the rescue of the commandos who were still ashore. It was almost a miracle that his motor gunboat, although full of dead and wounded, had survived and was able to withdraw through an intense barrage of close range fire.
Additional information:. Captain Ryder was made Naval Attaché in Oslo from 1948-50, when he became a Member of Parliament for Merton and Morden until 1955. He wrote two books, 'The Attack on San Nazaire,' and 'Coverplan.'

Updated:15.08.03