Soldier. born in Hilmer Street West Kensington. He joined the Scots Guards in 1894, and served during the Second Boer War. He left the army in 1902, to work for the NSPCC, but rejoined in January 1915. As a Company Sergeant-Major in the 18th Battalion (3rd Manchester Pals), he fought in the Battle of the Somme at Guillemont. He volunteered to deliver an important message after five runners had been killed in attempting to do so. He had to cover about 700 yards, whilst under observation from the enemy and succeeded in the delivery in spite of being wounded. The return journey meant facing severe rifle and machine-gun fire, but he managed it by dodging from shell-hole to shell-hole. He was awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions.
Credit for this entry to: Alan Patient of www.plaquesoflondon.co.uk
