Blair Anderson Wark
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Blair Anderson Wark VC, DSO (27 July 1894-13 June 1941) was an Australian 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.
He was 24 years old, and a major in the 32nd Battalion (S.A. & W.A.), Australian Imperial Force during the First World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.
During the period 29 September to 1 October 1918, at Bellicourt and the advance through to Joncourt, France, Major Wark moved fearlessly at the head of and at times far in advance of his troops, cheering them on and showing great gallantry in attack. At one time, leading his assaulting companies, he rushed a battery of 77mm guns, capturing four of them and 10 of the crew. Then, with only two NCOs, he surprised and captured 50 of the enemy near Magny La Fosse. Subsequently, he again, at great personal risk, silenced machine-guns which were causing heavy casualties.
He later achieved the rank of lieutenant colonel.
[edit] References
- Monuments to Courage (David Harvey, 1999)
- The Register of the Victoria Cross (This England, 1997)
- VCs of the First World War - The Final Days 1918 (Gerald Gliddon, 2000)
[edit] External links
- WARK B.A.
- Major B.A. Wark (photo, brief details)
