World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in Middle Arm, Newfoundland, he served as a Private in 1st Battalion, Royal Newfoundland Regiment, British Army. During the advance near Ledeghem, Belgium, on October 14, 1918, Private Ricketts' 1st Battalion was being delayed by a German battery firing at close range, resulting in severe casualties. He at once volunteered to go forward with his section commander to attempt to outflank the battery. When their ammunition was exhausted, the enemy saw an opportunity to get their field guns away, began to bring up their guns on Private Ricketts and his commander. Private Ricketts at once realizing the situation, doubled back 100 yards under the heavy machine-gun fire, procured further ammunition and dashed back with a Lewis gun. He then with very accurate fire drove the enemy and the gun teams into a farm. His platoon then advanced without casualties capturing the four field guns, four machine guns and eight prisoners. Also his efforts enabled a fifth field gun to be intercepted by fire and captured. He later attained the rank of Sergeant and for most conspicuous bravery, was awarded the Victoria Cross on January 6, 1919. After the war, he studied Pharmacy and opened a business in St John's, Newfoundland, where he lived until his death at age 66.
World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in Middle Arm, Newfoundland, he served as a Private in 1st Battalion, Royal Newfoundland Regiment, British Army. During the advance near Ledeghem, Belgium, on October 14, 1918, Private Ricketts' 1st Battalion was being delayed by a German battery firing at close range, resulting in severe casualties. He at once volunteered to go forward with his section commander to attempt to outflank the battery. When their ammunition was exhausted, the enemy saw an opportunity to get their field guns away, began to bring up their guns on Private Ricketts and his commander. Private Ricketts at once realizing the situation, doubled back 100 yards under the heavy machine-gun fire, procured further ammunition and dashed back with a Lewis gun. He then with very accurate fire drove the enemy and the gun teams into a farm. His platoon then advanced without casualties capturing the four field guns, four machine guns and eight prisoners. Also his efforts enabled a fifth field gun to be intercepted by fire and captured. He later attained the rank of Sergeant and for most conspicuous bravery, was awarded the Victoria Cross on January 6, 1919. After the war, he studied Pharmacy and opened a business in St John's, Newfoundland, where he lived until his death at age 66.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
Inscription
SGT. V. C.
Born Middle Arm W. B.
Awarded the Victoria Cross in Action
With Royal Newfoundland Regiment
near Ledgehem, Belgium, October 14, 1918
Fight the good fight
Family Members
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