William Anderson (VC)

He fought alone with bombs and rifle fire to hold his trench

William Anderson was born at Dallas, Morayshire, on 28 December 1882. Educated at Forres Academy, he worked for Glasgow Tramways before enlisting in the Yorkshire Regiment in 1905. He served in India, Egypt and South Africa, entered the reserve in 1912, and worked at a Glasgow hospital. Recalled in August 1914, he initially helped recruiting before joining the 2nd Battalion in France that November.

On 12 March 1915 at Neuve Chapelle, Corporal Anderson led three men against German troops who had entered the British trenches. When his companions were wounded, he continued alone, throwing their bombs after exhausting his own and then firing his rifle rapidly. His determined resistance helped prevent a dangerous breakthrough. He received the Victoria Cross for the action.

Anderson was reported missing and presumed killed on 13 March, the day after his VC action. His body was not recovered. He left a fiancée, Lucy Dudley, whom he had met during his recruiting duties. His brother received the posthumous decoration at Edinburgh Castle in 1920.

Official Victoria Cross citation

For most conspicuous bravery at Neuve Chapelle on 12th March, 1915, when he led three men with bombs against a large party of the enemy who had entered our trenches, and by his prompt and determined action saved, what might otherwise have become, a serious situation. Corporal Anderson first threw his own bombs, then those in possession of his three men (who had been wounded) amongst the Germans, after which he opened rapid rifle fire upon them with great effect, notwithstanding that he was at the time quite alone.

Supplement to The London Gazette of 21 May 1915. 22 May 1915, Numb. 29170, p. 4989