Frederick Hobson
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Frederick Hobson (September 23, 1873 - August 18, 1917) was a Canadian recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.
[edit] Details
He was 43 years old, and a sergeant in the 20th Battalion, 1st Central Ontario Regiment, Canadian Expeditionary Force during the First World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.
On 18 August 1917 north-west of Lens, France, during a strong enemy counter-attack the Lewis gun in a forward position was buried by a shell and the crew, with the exception of one man, killed. Sergeant Hobson, although not a gunner, grasping the great importance of the post, rushed from his trench, dug out the gun and got it into action. The gun then jammed and so Sergeant Hobson rushed forward at the advancing enemy with bayonet and clubbed rifle, holding them back until he himself was killed by a rifle shot.
[edit] The medal
His Victoria Cross is displayed at the Canadian War Museum (Ottawa, Canada).
[edit] External links
- FREDERICK HOBSON (service details, citation, relevant documents, burial information)
- Legion Magazine Article on Frederick Hobson
- Find-A-Grave profile for Frederick Hobson
- Ontario Plaques - Sergeant Frederick Hobson, VC 1873 - 1917
- Hobson's Medals at the Canadian War Muesum
