Bede Kenny

Thomas James Bede Kenny was an Australian recipient of the Victoria Cross, which is the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces. Born in Sydney, New South Wales, Kenny served as a private soldier (later corporal) in the Australian Imperial Force during the First World War.

He was awarded the Victoria Cross for his conspicuous bravery on 26 June 1917 during the Battle of Messines. When his platoon was pinned down by intense fire from an enemy strongpoint, Kenny single-handedly rushed the bunker, killed the garrison, and captured the position, allowing his unit to continue their advance.

Kenny survived the war and returned to Australia, where he worked in various civilian roles before his passing in 1953. He remains celebrated as one of Australia's distinguished First World War heroes, with his valorous actions permanently detailed in the nation's military history.