Henry Kelly (VC)

Major Henry Kelly VC, MC & bar was an English 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. Kelly joined the British Army and served with distinction during the First World War, demonstrating exceptional bravery in both France and Italy.

On 4 October 1916, at Le Sars, France, Kelly performed the act of bravery for which he was awarded the Victoria Cross. During an attack, he twice rallied his company under heavy fire, led a small group into an enemy trench, and subsequently carried his wounded Company Sergeant Major and three other soldiers back to safety. He later served in Italy, where his leadership in raids and attacks on the Asiago Plateau and across the Piave River earned him the Military Cross and a subsequent Bar.

Kelly retired from active service in 1920 with the rank of temporary major. His remarkable courage was also recognized by foreign governments with decorations from France and Belgium. Today, his Victoria Cross is preserved and displayed at the Bankfield Museum in Halifax, West Yorkshire.