Allastair Malcolm Cluny McReady-Diarmid

He led two fierce counterattacks through a murderous barrage

Allastair Malcolm Cluny McReady-Diarmid VC was born Arthur Malcolm Drew at New Southgate, Middlesex, on 21 March 1888. He attended schools in Barnet, Jersey and Ealing, then the University of London. Commissioned into the Middlesex Regiment in March 1915, he was wounded in France and recovered at Dursley, where he met and married Hilda Dainton. They had a daughter, Alizon.

After further service, wounds and training duties, he joined the 17th Battalion in April 1917. As a temporary captain during the Battle of Cambrai, he led his company at Moeuvres when a German counterattack threatened the British positions. On 30 November he drove the attackers back and took prisoners. The following day, he led volunteers to recover more lost ground, using grenades to overcome resistance. A bomb killed him on 1 December 1917.

His posthumous Victoria Cross was announced on 12 March 1918. The full official citation reads:

“For most conspicuous bravery and brilliant leadership. When the enemy penetrated some distance into our position and the situation was extremely critical, Captain McReady-Diarmid at once led his company forward through a heavy barrage. He immediately engaged the enemy, with such success that he drove them back at least 300 yards, causing numerous casualties and capturing 27 prisoners.

The following day the enemy again attacked and drove back another company which had lost all its officers. This gallant officer at once called for volunteers and attacked. He drove them back again for 300 yards, with heavy casualties. Throughout this attack Captain McReady-Diarmid led the way himself, and it was absolutely and entirely due to his marvellous throwing of bombs that the ground was regained. His absolute disregard for danger, his cheerfulness and coolness at a most trying time, inspired all who saw him. This most gallant officer was eventually killed by a bomb when the enemy had been driven right back to their original starting point.”

King George V presented the Victoria Cross to Hilda at Buckingham Palace on 20 April 1918. McReady-Diarmid is commemorated on the Cambrai Memorial at Louverval and on Dursley War Memorial. His former school, Victoria College in Jersey, named a house after him and preserved his ceremonial sword. His Victoria Cross is held by the National Army Museum.