World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in Annandale, Sydney, New South Wales, he served as a Lieutenant in the 18th Battalion Australian Imperial Forces. On October 3, 1918, during an attack on the German lines on the Beaurevoir-Fonsomme line near Estates, North of St. Quentin, Lieutenant Maxwell's company commander was severely wounded early in the advance. Lieutenant Maxwell at once took charge and began to lead in front of his men to the enemy wire under intense fire supported by machine guns. He pushed forward single handed through the wire and captured the most dangerous gun, killing three and capturing four enemy. In doing so, he enabled his company to penetrate the wire and reach the objective. Later, he dashed forward alone and silenced a gun which was holding up a flank on another company. Then with only two men he attempted to capture a strong party of the enemy, he handled a involved situation and he with his comrades were able to escape. For most conspicuous bravery and leadership, he was awarded the Victoria Cross by King George V on March 8, 1919. He died of a heart attack at age 71 in New South Wales, Australia.
World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in Annandale, Sydney, New South Wales, he served as a Lieutenant in the 18th Battalion Australian Imperial Forces. On October 3, 1918, during an attack on the German lines on the Beaurevoir-Fonsomme line near Estates, North of St. Quentin, Lieutenant Maxwell's company commander was severely wounded early in the advance. Lieutenant Maxwell at once took charge and began to lead in front of his men to the enemy wire under intense fire supported by machine guns. He pushed forward single handed through the wire and captured the most dangerous gun, killing three and capturing four enemy. In doing so, he enabled his company to penetrate the wire and reach the objective. Later, he dashed forward alone and silenced a gun which was holding up a flank on another company. Then with only two men he attempted to capture a strong party of the enemy, he handled a involved situation and he with his comrades were able to escape. For most conspicuous bravery and leadership, he was awarded the Victoria Cross by King George V on March 8, 1919. He died of a heart attack at age 71 in New South Wales, Australia.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
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