Filip Konowal

Armed with nothing but a bayonet, a rifle, and extraordinary courage, Filip Konowal charged into enemy positions alone and emerged as one of Canada's greatest First World War heroes. His fearless actions during the Battle of Hill 70 earned him the Victoria Cross (VC), the highest award for gallantry in the British Empire, and secured his place among the most remarkable soldiers in Canadian military history.

Filip Konowal was born on 15 September 1887 in Kutkivtsi, Podolia Governorate, then part of the Russian Empire, now in Ukraine. Raised in a farming family, he completed compulsory military service in the Imperial Russian Army before emigrating to Canada in 1913. Settling in Ottawa, Ontario, he worked as a lumberjack before volunteering for service with the Canadian Expeditionary Force following the outbreak of the First World War. He was assigned to the 47th Battalion (British Columbia), Canadian Expeditionary Force, where his determination and fearlessness quickly became evident.

His defining moment came during the Battle of Hill 70 near Lens, France, from 22 to 24 August 1917. Serving as a corporal, Konowal repeatedly led attacks against heavily defended German positions. In close-quarters combat, he single-handedly stormed enemy trenches, clearing dugouts with grenades and bayonet attacks while capturing prisoners and silencing machine gun nests. During one assault, despite being wounded, he continued fighting through successive enemy positions, displaying exceptional courage and determination that inspired those around him. His relentless attacks played a significant role in breaking German resistance and securing the Canadian Corps' objectives during one of its most important victories of the war.

For his conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty, Filip Konowal was awarded the Victoria Cross (VC). His First World War service was further recognised with the British War Medal 1914–1920 and the Victory Medal 1914–19. In recognition of his distinguished status as one of Canada's most celebrated war heroes, he later received the King George VI Coronation Medal (1937) and the Queen Elizabeth II Coronation Medal (1953). Before emigrating to Canada, he had also been awarded the Cross of St. George, Fourth Class, for gallantry while serving in the Imperial Russian Army.

After the First World War, Konowal faced many personal hardships, including difficulties adjusting to civilian life. Nevertheless, he remained a respected figure among Canadian veterans. During the Second World War, he again served his adopted country by working with the Canadian military, contributing to the war effort in a non-combat role. In later years, his remarkable story received renewed recognition, and he became a symbol of the courage and sacrifice made by immigrant soldiers who fought for Canada.

Filip Konowal died on 3 June 1959 at the age of 71 and was laid to rest in Ottawa, not far from the Canadian War Museum where his Victoria Cross is preserved. Remembered as one of Canada's most courageous soldiers, his extraordinary heroism at Hill 70 and his unwavering determination under fire continue to inspire generations of Canadians. His life stands as a powerful testament to bravery, resilience, and the enduring contribution of immigrants who answered the call to defend their adopted homeland.