Walter Lorrain Brodie

Led a bayonet charge to retake trenches held by enemy troops

Born in Edinburgh in 1884, Walter Lorrain Brodie entered the Highland Light Infantry in 1904. In November 1914 near Becelaere, he led a charge to clear an enemy-held trench, relieving a dangerous situation. The battalion killed 80 opponents and captured 51. He received the Victoria Cross in 1915 and the Military Cross in 1917. As temporary lieutenant-colonel, he commanded the 2nd Battalion in 1918. Killed near Behagnies on 23 August 1918, he was buried at Bienvillers.

Victoria Cross citation: For conspicuous gallantry near Becelaere on the 11th November, in clearing the enemy out of a portion of our trenches which they had succeeded in occupying. Heading the charge, he bayonetted several of the enemy, and thereby relieved a dangerous situation. As a result of Lieutenant Brodie's promptitude, 80 of the enemy were killed, and 51 taken prisoners.