World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in London, England, he served as a Lieutenant Colonel in command of the 2nd/5th King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry, British Army. On March 28, 1918, north of Hebuterne, France, a counter-attack had been made against a German position which at first achieved its object. Lieutenant Colonel Watson was holding out in two improvised strong-points, when he saw that immediate action was necessary. He led his remaining small reserve to the attack, organizing bombing parties and leading attacks under intense fire. Outnumbered, he finally ordered his men to retire, remaining himself in a communication trench to cover the retirement. The assault he led was at a critical moment and without doubt saved the line, but he was killed covering the withdrawal. For gallantry in the face of the enemy, he was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross on May 6, 1918.
World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in London, England, he served as a Lieutenant Colonel in command of the 2nd/5th King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry, British Army. On March 28, 1918, north of Hebuterne, France, a counter-attack had been made against a German position which at first achieved its object. Lieutenant Colonel Watson was holding out in two improvised strong-points, when he saw that immediate action was necessary. He led his remaining small reserve to the attack, organizing bombing parties and leading attacks under intense fire. Outnumbered, he finally ordered his men to retire, remaining himself in a communication trench to cover the retirement. The assault he led was at a critical moment and without doubt saved the line, but he was killed covering the withdrawal. For gallantry in the face of the enemy, he was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross on May 6, 1918.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
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