Victoria Cross awarded to Lieutenant-Colonel Adrian Carton de Wiart, 1916 (metal)

Victoria Cross awarded to Lieutenant-Colonel Adrian Carton de Wiart, 1916. de Wiart, an officer of the 4th Dragoon Guards, won the Victoria Cross (VC) while commanding 8th Battalion The Gloucester Regiment at La Boiselle on the Somme between 2-3 July 1916. According to his citation in ‘The London Gazette’ of 9 September 1916, he displayed the ‘most conspicuous bravery, coolness and determination during severe operations of a prolonged nature. It was owing in a great measure to his dauntless courage and inspiring example that a serious reverse was averted. He displayed the utmost energy and courage in forcing our attack home. After three other battalion Commanders had become casualties, he controlled their commands, and ensured that the ground won was maintained at all costs. He frequently exposed himself in the organisation of positions and of supplies, passing unflinchingly through fire barrage of the most intense nature. His gallantry was inspiring to all.’ de Wiart was decorated with the VC by King George V at Buckingham Palace on 29 November 1916.