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Lance-Sergeant Douglas Belcher V. C
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Lance-Sergeant Douglas Belcher V. C
Lance-Sergeant Douglas Belcher of the London Rifle Brigade, the first Territorial, other than an officer to receive the Victoria Cross in the First World War. Before the war he was a salesman at Messrs. Waring and Gillows Oxford Street store.On 13 May 1915, south of the Wieltje-St. Julien Road, Belgium, Belcher was in charge of a portion of an advanced breastwork during continuous bombardment by the enemy. With very few men, Belcher elected to remain and try to hold his position after the troops near him had been withdrawn, and with great skill he succeeded in his objective, opening rapid fire on the enemy, who were only 150-200 yards away, whenever he saw them collecting for an attack. This bold action prevented the enemy breaking through and averted an attack on the flank of one of our divisions. Date: 1915
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Media ID 14155510
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Award Awarded Belcher Bravery Gillow Hero Heroic Heroism Lance Recipient Rifle Salesman Sergeant Territorial Valiant Valour Waring Winner Douglas
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph portrays Lance-Sergeant Douglas Belcher VC, a brave and valiant soldier of the London Rifle Brigade, who became the first Territorial, other than an officer, to receive the prestigious Victoria Cross (VC) during the First World War. Prior to the war, Belcher worked as a salesman at Messrs. Waring and Gillows, a renowned Oxford Street store. The image captures Belcher in his military uniform, adorned with the distinctive insignia of the Victoria Cross, which he earned on 13 May 1915, south of the Wieltje-St. Julien Road in Belgium. Amidst continuous enemy bombardment, Belcher, with very few men at his disposal, elected to remain and defend his position after the troops near him had been withdrawn. His courageous decision prevented the enemy from breaking through and averted an attack on the flank of one of our divisions. The photograph is a testament to Belcher's unwavering bravery and heroism during a time of great turmoil and adversity. The Victoria Cross, the highest military decoration awarded for valor in the face of the enemy, symbolizes the exceptional valor and selflessness displayed by Belcher during the First World War. This portrait serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by ordinary men like Belcher, who rose to the occasion and demonstrated extraordinary courage in the face of danger.
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