Laurence Calvert

Laurence Calvert VC MM (16 February 1892 – 6 July 1964) 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.

Laurence Calvert

VC MM
Born16 February 1892
Leeds, West Riding of Yorkshire
Died6 July 1964(1964-07-06) (aged 72)
Dagenham, Essex
Allegiance United Kingdom
Service/branch British Army
RankSergeant
UnitThe King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry
Battles/warsWorld War I
Awards Victoria Cross
Military Medal
Order of Leopold (with palm)

Calvert was 26 years old, and a sergeant in the 5th Battalion, King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry, British Army during the First World War when, on 12 September 1918 at Havrincourt, France at the Battle of Havrincourt, the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC. The full citation was published in a supplement to the London Gazette of 12 November 1918 (dated 15 November 1918):[1]

War Office, 15th November, 1918.

His Majesty the KING has been graciously pleased to approve of the award of the Victoria Cross to the undermentioned Officers, Noncommissioned Officers and Men: —

[...]

No. 240194 Sgt. Laurence Calvert, M.M.. K.O.Y.L.I. (Conisbro').

For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty in attack when the success of the operation was rendered doubtful owing, to severe enfilade machine-gun fire. Alone and single-handed Sjt. Calvert, rushing forward against the machine-gun team, bayoneted three and shot four.

His valour and determination in capturing single-handed two machine guns and killing the crews thereof enabled the ultimate objective to be won. His personal gallantry inspired all ranks.

He was also awarded the Military Medal (MM),[2] and the Belgian Order of Leopold (with palm), in the grade of Chevalier.[3]

The Medal

His VC is on display in the Lord Ashcroft Gallery at the Imperial War Museum, London.

References
  1. "No. 31012". The London Gazette (Supplement). 12 November 1918. p. 13472.
  2. "No. 31173". The London Gazette (Supplement). 7 February 1919. pp. 2087–2114.
  3. "No. 31275". The London Gazette (Supplement). 4 April 1919. p. 4519.
Photograph of Laurence Calvert
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