World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, he served as a Drummer Corporal in the 2nd Battalion, Seaforth Highlanders, British Army. On July 1, 1916 north of Beaumont Hamel, France, Drummer Corporal Ritchie on his own initiative, stood on the parapet of an enemy trench under heavy machine-gun fire and bomb attacks. He repeatedly sounded the "Charge", which rallied many men of various units who, having lost their leaders were wavering and beginning to retire. He also, during the day, carried messages over fire-swept enemy grounds. For the greatest devotion to duty while under fire, he was awarded the Victoria Cross by King V at Buckingham Palace on November 25, 1916 and later achieved the rank of Drum Major. He died in Edinburgh, Scotland, at age 73.
World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, he served as a Drummer Corporal in the 2nd Battalion, Seaforth Highlanders, British Army. On July 1, 1916 north of Beaumont Hamel, France, Drummer Corporal Ritchie on his own initiative, stood on the parapet of an enemy trench under heavy machine-gun fire and bomb attacks. He repeatedly sounded the "Charge", which rallied many men of various units who, having lost their leaders were wavering and beginning to retire. He also, during the day, carried messages over fire-swept enemy grounds. For the greatest devotion to duty while under fire, he was awarded the Victoria Cross by King V at Buckingham Palace on November 25, 1916 and later achieved the rank of Drum Major. He died in Edinburgh, Scotland, at age 73.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
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