Walter Richard Parker

Walter Richard Parker, VC was a British ironworker and Royal Marine who served during the First World War. He is best remembered as a recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

Parker was serving as a Lance Corporal in the Royal Marine Light Infantry, Royal Naval Division during the Gallipoli Campaign when he performed the actions that earned him the Victoria Cross. On the night of 30 April to 1 May 1915, at Gaba Tepe, Gallipoli, Turkey, Parker volunteered to take ammunition, water, and medical supplies to an isolated trench.

Despite being under intense enemy fire and seriously wounded during the mission, he successfully reached the trench and subsequently helped to evacuate the wounded. His conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty saved lives and provided vital support to the beleaguered garrison under extremely hazardous conditions.