william thomas forshaw

William Thomas Forshaw was an English recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

Details

He was 25 years old, and a Lieutenant in the 1/9th Bn., The Manchester Regiment, British Army during the First World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC. During the period 7/9 August 1915 in Gallipoli, Turkey, when holding the north-west corner of "The Vineyard" against heavy attacks by the Turks, Lieutenant Forshaw not only directed his men but personally threw bombs continuously for over 40 hours. When his detachment was relieved, he volunteered to continue directing the defence. Later, when the Turks captured a portion of the trench, he shot three of them and recaptured it. It was due to his fine example and magnificent courage that this very important position was held.

Further information

He later achieved the rank of Major. Grave/memorial at Buried at Touchen End Cemetery, Bray, near Maidenhead, England. Headstone (for many years grave unmarked - new stone erected 1994, not on exact site).