16 August 2009

Victoria Cross: P. H. Cherry

PERCY HERBERT CHERRY MC

Captain, 26th Infantry Battalion, Australian Imperial Force

Born: 4 June 1895, Drysdale, Victoria, Australia
Died: 27 March 1917, near Lagnicourt, France

Citation: For most conspicuous bravery, determination and leadership when in command of a company detailed to storm and clear a village [on 26 March 1917].
After all the officers of his company had become casualties he carried on with care and determination, in the face of fierce opposition, and cleared the village of the enemy.
He sent frequent reports of progress made, and when held up for some time by an enemy strong point he organised machine gun and bomb parties and captured the position. His leadership, coolness and bravery set a wonderful example to his men.
Having cleared the village, he took charge of the situation and beat off the most resolute and heavy counter-attacks made by the enemy.
Wounded about 6.30 a.m., he refused to leave his post, and there remained, encouraging all to hold out at all costs, until, about 4.30 p.m., this very gallant officer was killed by an enemy shell.

[London Gazette issue 30064 dtd 11 May 1917, published 11 May 1917.]

Amendment.
Capt. Percy Herbert Cherry, V.C., M.C., late Aus. Imp. Force, is now correctly described.
The rank was incorrectly stated [as 2nd Lt. (temp. Capt.)] on page 4587 of the Gazette dated 11th May 1917.

[London Gazette issue 30104 dtd 31 May 1917, published 29 May 1917.]

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