Adam Archibald

Sapper Adam Archibald VC (1879–1957) was a Scottish soldier of the Royal Engineers and a recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest award for gallantry in the British and Commonwealth forces.

Archibald enlisted during the First World War with the 7th Battalion, Durham Light Infantry, before transferring to the 218th Field Company, Royal Engineers. He earned the Victoria Cross on 4 November 1918 near Ors, France, during operations at the Sambre–Oise Canal.

While serving with a party constructing a floating bridge under intense artillery and machine-gun fire, Archibald repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire while working on the bridge supports and cork floats. His determination and example helped ensure the rapid completion of the bridge, which was critical to the success of the operation. Immediately afterward, he collapsed from severe gas poisoning sustained during the action.

For his wartime service he was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal in addition to the Victoria Cross. He later received the 1937 and 1953 Coronation Medals.

After the war, Archibald returned to civilian life in Edinburgh, where he worked for Stewart’s Granolithic Works and eventually became manager of the company’s Duff Street works. His Victoria Cross is preserved at the Royal Engineers Museum.