Richard Basil Brandram Jones

He held a crater against attack until his ammunition failed.

Richard Basil Brandram Jones was born at Honor Oak, London, on 30 April 1897. Educated at Dulwich, he joined the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment as a second lieutenant in October 1914. Promoted temporary lieutenant, he became a battalion sniping officer and reached France in September 1915.

On 21 May 1916, Jones and his platoon held a newly captured crater near Vimy. After a mine exploded nearby, the enemy attacked from several directions. Jones organised the defence, distributed ammunition and continued firing despite being wounded. When supplies were exhausted, he led the remaining men in a final effort to resist. He was killed, receiving a posthumous Victoria Cross.

He was nineteen and had no subsequent career. His body was not recovered for an identified grave, and his name is commemorated on the Arras Memorial. His father received the decoration in December 1916.

Official Victoria Cross citation

For most conspicuous bravery. He was holding with his platoon a crater recently captured from the enemy. About 7.30 p.m. the enemy exploded a mine forty yards to his right, and at the same time put a heavy barrage of fire on our trenches, thus isolating the platoon. They then attacked in overwhelming numbers. Lt. Jones kept his men together, steadying them by his fine example, and shot no less than fifteen of the enemy as they advanced, counting them aloud as he did so to cheer his men. When his ammunition was expended he took a bomb, but was shot through the head while getting up to throw it. His splendid courage had so encouraged his men that when they had no more ammunition or bombs they threw stones and ammunition boxes at the enemy till only nine of the platoon were left. Finally they were compelled to retire.

Supplement to The London Gazette of 4 August 1916. 5 August 1916, Numb. 29695, pp. 7743-44