World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in Gresley, Staffordshire, he served as a Private in the 13th Battalion, Rifle Brigade Prince Consort's Own, British Army. In actions at Bucquoy, France, on May 8, 1918, when Private Beesley's platoon Sergeant and all his section commanders were killed, he took command. He then rushed a post, shot four of the enemy, took six prisoners and sent them back to his lines. He with a comrade then brought his Lewis gun into action, inflicting many casualties and holding their position for four hours until the second private was wounded. Private Beesley, by himself, maintained his position until nightfall, when he returned to his own lines with the wounded man and the Lewis gun. For gallantry in the face of the enemy, he was awarded the Victoria Cross on June 28, 1918. He later achieved the rank of sergeant and after demobilization in 1919, returned to his coal mining job at the Haunchwood pit in Warwickshire. During World War II, he served in the Royal Artillery as an instructor. He died at age 70 while on vacation in Monmouthshire, Wales.
World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in Gresley, Staffordshire, he served as a Private in the 13th Battalion, Rifle Brigade Prince Consort's Own, British Army. In actions at Bucquoy, France, on May 8, 1918, when Private Beesley's platoon Sergeant and all his section commanders were killed, he took command. He then rushed a post, shot four of the enemy, took six prisoners and sent them back to his lines. He with a comrade then brought his Lewis gun into action, inflicting many casualties and holding their position for four hours until the second private was wounded. Private Beesley, by himself, maintained his position until nightfall, when he returned to his own lines with the wounded man and the Lewis gun. For gallantry in the face of the enemy, he was awarded the Victoria Cross on June 28, 1918. He later achieved the rank of sergeant and after demobilization in 1919, returned to his coal mining job at the Haunchwood pit in Warwickshire. During World War II, he served in the Royal Artillery as an instructor. He died at age 70 while on vacation in Monmouthshire, Wales.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
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