Philip Eric Bent

Rallied scattered soldiers and led a decisive counter-attack

Philip Eric Bent was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and educated in Britain. He trained for the Merchant Navy and qualified as a second mate in 1914. When war began, he enlisted in the Royal Scots, then received a commission in the Leicestershire Regiment. He joined the 9th Battalion on the Western Front in 1915 and rose rapidly to command it as a temporary lieutenant colonel. He earned the Distinguished Service Order and remained on duty after several wounds.

On 1 October 1917, near Polygon Wood in Belgium, a heavy German attack forced back the right of Bent's command and the neighbouring battalion. Amid confusion and artillery fire, he gathered a reserve platoon, men from other companies and regimental details. After directing officers to defend the line, he led this improvised force in a successful counter-attack.

Bent was killed while leading a charge, calling, 'Come on the Tigers.' His leadership helped secure ground needed for later operations and earned the Victoria Cross posthumously. He was twenty-six and has no known grave; his name is on the Tyne Cot Memorial.

Official Victoria Cross citation:

For most conspicuous bravery, when during a heavy hostile attack, the right of his own command and the battalion on his right were forced back. The situation was critical owing to the confusion caused by the attack and the intense artillery fire. Lt. Col. Bent personally collected a platoon that was in reserve, and together with men from other companies and various regimental details, he organised and led them forward to the counter-attack, after issuing orders to other officers as to the further defence of the line. The counter-attack was successful and the enemy were checked. The coolness and magnificent example shown to all ranks by Lt.-Col. Bent resulted in the securing of a portion of the line which was of essential importance for subsequent operations. This very gallant officer was killed whilst leading a charge which he inspired with the call of Come on the Tigers.