Charles Melvin

Private Charles Melvin was a Scottish recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces. Serving with the Royal Highlanders (Black Watch) during World War I, Melvin demonstrated extraordinary heroism during an engagement where his company was pinned down near an enemy redoubt.

Faced with intense rifle and machine-gun fire, Melvin rushed forward alone into the enemy trench. Using his bayonet by hand due to a damaged rifle, he single-handedly cleared the position, killing several enemy combatants, capturing eight unwounded soldiers, and rendering first aid to a wounded enemy soldier whom he then escorted back to British lines under a heavy artillery barrage.

After delivering his prisoners, Melvin immediately secured ammunition and returned to the front lines. His actions greatly inspired his comrades throughout the day. Today, his Victoria Cross is displayed at the Black Watch Museum in Perth, Scotland, and his legacy is honored with several memorials in his hometown of Kirriemuir.