Laurence Calvert VC

Name: Laurence Calvert

Conflict: First World War

Gazetted: November 15, 1918

Service: Army

Place/date of birth: Hunslet, Leeds, Yorkshire/February 16, 1892

Rank when awarded VC (and later highest rank): Sergeant

Date of bravery: September 12, 1918

London Gazette citation:

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.

Click here to see full Gazette entry.

Other decorations: MM

Place/date of death: Dagenham, Essex/July 7, 1964

Grave/memorials: South Essex Crematorium, Upminster, London

Origin of VC to the Lord Ashcroft collection: Purchased privately, 2004

Current location of VC: Displayed on rotation at The Lord Ashcroft Gallery: Extraordinary Heroes exhibition, Imperial War Museum