Walter Leigh Rayfield

Walter Leigh Rayfield was a Canadian 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. Born in England, he emigrated to Canada and subsequently enlisted in the Canadian Expeditionary Force during the First World War.

During the Allied offensive on the Western Front, Rayfield distinguished himself through exceptional valor on September 2, 1918, during operations to breach the formidable Drocourt-Quéant Line near Arras, France. He was one of seven Canadians to earn the Victoria Cross on this single day of intense combat, demonstrating conspicuous bravery and leadership under heavy enemy fire.

In addition to his Victoria Cross, Rayfield was recognized by the Kingdom of Belgium for his wartime service. His Victoria Cross is preserved and displayed at the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, as a lasting tribute to his heroism.