Sidney James Day VC

Name: Sidney James Day

Conflict: First World War

Gazetted: October 17, 1917

Service: Army

Place/date of birth: Norwich, Norfolk/July 3, 1891

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

Date of bravery: August 26, 1917

London Gazette citation:

For most conspicuous bravery.

Cpl. Day was in command of a bombing section detailed to clear a maze of trenches still held by the enemy; this he did, killing two machine gunners and taking four prisoners. On reaching a point where the trench had been levelled, he went alone and bombed his way through to the left, in order to gain touch with the neighbouring troops.

Immediately on his return to his section a stick bomb fell into a trench occupied by two officers (one badly wounded) and three other ranks.

Cpl. Day seized the bomb and threw it over the trench, where it immediately exploded.

This prompt action undoubtedly saved the lives of those in the trench.

He afterwards completed the clearing of the trench, and, establishing himself in an advanced position, remained for sixty-six hours at his post, which came under intense hostile shell and rifle grenade fire.

Throughout the whole operations his conduct was an inspiration to all.

Click here to see full Gazette entry.

Other decorations: N/A

Place/date of death: Portsmouth, Hampshire/July 17, 1959

Grave/memorials: Milton Cemetery, Portsmouth, Hampshire/The Sidney Day Tea Rooms, Landport, Portsmouth, and a commemorative stone in front of the Norwich War Memorial, Norfolk

Origin of VC to the Lord Ashcroft collection: : Purchased at auction Dix Noonan Webb, London, 2018

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