Clive Hulme

Alfred Clive Hulme VC was a highly decorated soldier in the New Zealand Military Forces during the Second World War. He was awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy in the British Commonwealth, for his exceptional actions during the Battle of Crete in 1941. Operating as a sniper and stalker, Hulme demonstrated remarkable initiative and courage in neutralising numerous German forces.

Following the war, Hulme returned to civilian life in New Zealand. His military decorations, including his Victoria Cross, remained with his family and were later loaned to the National Army Museum in Waiouru. In 2007, his medals were stolen in a high-profile museum heist but were successfully recovered the following year.

Hulme's actions on Crete have remained a subject of historical discussion, particularly regarding his tactical use of captured German equipment during combat operations. Despite modern debates, he remains one of New Zealand's most prominent military heroes of the Second World War.