World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in Liverpool, England, he served as a Private in the 2nd Battalion, South Lancashire Regiment, British Army. During the Battle of Messines, France, on June 14, 1917, after a German trench had been captured, Private Ratcliffe located an enemy machine gun which was firing on his comrades from the rear. He single-handed on his own initiative, rushed the machine gun position and bayoneted the crew. He then brought the gun back into action in the front line against the advancing enemy. For most prestigious gallantry, he was awarded the Victoria Cross by King George V at Buckingham Palace on September 26, 1917. After being discharged in 1919, he worked on the Liverpool docks until he retired in 1956. He died at the age of 79.
World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in Liverpool, England, he served as a Private in the 2nd Battalion, South Lancashire Regiment, British Army. During the Battle of Messines, France, on June 14, 1917, after a German trench had been captured, Private Ratcliffe located an enemy machine gun which was firing on his comrades from the rear. He single-handed on his own initiative, rushed the machine gun position and bayoneted the crew. He then brought the gun back into action in the front line against the advancing enemy. For most prestigious gallantry, he was awarded the Victoria Cross by King George V at Buckingham Palace on September 26, 1917. After being discharged in 1919, he worked on the Liverpool docks until he retired in 1956. He died at the age of 79.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
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