World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in New Norfolk, Australia, he served as a Corporal in the 20th Battalion, Australian Imperial Forces. On July 16, 1918, at Villers-Bretonneux, France, Corporal Brown's party had taken over some newly captured trenches. When told that an enemy sniper was causing trouble, Corporal Brown discarded his rifle and picked up two Mills bombs. Running towards the post, he threw one bomb, which fell short, but on reaching the position he attacked a German with his fists and threatened the others with his remaining grenade, when they all promptly surrendered. For gallantry in the face of the enemy, he was promoted to Sergeant and awarded the Victoria Cross on August 17, 1918. During World War II, he served in the 2/15th Field Regiment Royal Australian Artillery and was killed at age 56 a few hours before the surrender to the Japanese on Singapore Island.
World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in New Norfolk, Australia, he served as a Corporal in the 20th Battalion, Australian Imperial Forces. On July 16, 1918, at Villers-Bretonneux, France, Corporal Brown's party had taken over some newly captured trenches. When told that an enemy sniper was causing trouble, Corporal Brown discarded his rifle and picked up two Mills bombs. Running towards the post, he threw one bomb, which fell short, but on reaching the position he attacked a German with his fists and threatened the others with his remaining grenade, when they all promptly surrendered. For gallantry in the face of the enemy, he was promoted to Sergeant and awarded the Victoria Cross on August 17, 1918. During World War II, he served in the 2/15th Field Regiment Royal Australian Artillery and was killed at age 56 a few hours before the surrender to the Japanese on Singapore Island.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
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