Arthur Henderson VC

Name: Arthur Henderson

Conflict: First World War

Gazetted: July 5, 1917

Service: Army

Place/date of birth: Paisley, Renfrewshire/May 6, 1893

Rank when awarded VC (and later highest rank): Acting Captain

Date of bravery: April 23, 1917

London Gazette citation:

2nd Lieutenant (acting Captain). Arthur Henderson, M.C., late Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders.

For most conspicuous bravery.

During an attack on the enemy trenches this officer, although almost immediately wounded in the left arm, led his Company through the front enemy line until he gained his final objective.

He then proceeded to consolidate his position, which, owing to heavy gun and machine gun fire and bombing attacks, was in danger of being isolated.

By his cheerful courage and coolness he was able to maintain the spirit of his men under most trying of conditions.

Captain Henderson was killed after he had accomplished his task.

Click here to see full Gazette entry.

Other decorations:  MC

Place/date of death: Fontaine-les-Croisilles, France/April 24, 1917

Grave/memorials: Cojeul British Cemetery, Saint-Martin-sur-Cojeul, France; Paisley Abbey, Glasgow; Ferguslie Cricket Club, Paisley, Renfrewshire

Origin of VC to the Lord Ashcroft collection: Purchased at auction, Christie’s, London, 1990

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