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Sergeant Michael O Leary, VC at Cuinchy
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Sergeant Michael O Leary, VC at Cuinchy
Sergeant Michael John O Leary (29 September 1890 2 August 1961), capturing the barricade at Cuinchy on February 1st. Date: 1915
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Media ID 14308006
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Barricade Guard Guards Guardsman Guardsmen Leary Michael Sergeant
EDITORS COMMENTS
Sergeant Michael John O'Leary VC: A Heroic Moment at the Cuinchy Barricade during the First World War This evocative photograph captures the determined gaze of Sergeant Michael John O'Leary VC as he stands atop a makeshift barricade during the Battle of Cuinchy on February 1, 1915. The First World War, a global conflict that lasted from 1914 to 1918, saw the deployment of millions of soldiers from around the world. Among them was Sergeant O'Leary, a member of the Irish Guards, who distinguished himself with acts of exceptional bravery and leadership during the fierce fighting at Cuinchy. The Battle of Cuinchy was a significant engagement in the Artois campaign, which took place in the northern part of France. The Irish Guards, along with other British and French forces, were tasked with capturing the German-held village of Cuinchy. The battle was marked by intense hand-to-hand combat and the use of flamethrowers, resulting in heavy casualties on both sides. Sergeant O'Leary, who hailed from County Kerry, Ireland, was awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest military decoration in the British honours system, for his actions during the battle. He was commended for leading his men in the capture of a German trench, despite being wounded in the leg. Undeterred, he continued to rally his troops and eventually led them to the capture of the village. In this photograph, Sergeant O'Leary is seen standing atop a barricade, surveying the battlefield with a steely resolve. His men, huddled behind him, watch intently as he scans the horizon for any signs of enemy activity. The image serves as a poignant reminder of the courage and determination displayed by soldiers during the First World War and the sacrifices they made for their countries.
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