Claude Joseph Patrick Nunney

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Claude Joseph Patrick Nunney VC , DCM , MM, (December 24, 1892 - September 18, 1918) was a 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 Dublin, Ireland, by birth he was an Irish citizen but became a Canadian citizen by naturalization.

Nunney was one of seven Canadian to be awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions on September 2, 1918. The other six Victoria Cross recipients were William Metcalf, Cyrus Wesley Peck, John Francis Young, Walter Leigh Rayfield, Bellenden Hutcheson and Arthur George Knight.

1 Details
2 Further information
3 The medal
4 References
5 External links

[edit] Details

He was a Private in the 38th (Ottawa) Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force, during the First World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 1 September 1918, on the Drocourt-Queant Line, France, when his battalion which was preparing to advance, was heavily counter-attacked by the enemy, Private Nunney on his own initiative, went forward through the barrage to the company out-post lines, going from post to post and encouraging the men by his own fearless example.

The enemy was repulsed and a critical situation saved. During the attack on 2 September 1918, his leadership undoubtedly helped to carry his company forward to its objective and he again displayed the highest degree of valour until severely wounded.

He died 16 days later, aged 25.

[edit] Further information

Cpl Nunney was a member of the 38th (Ottawa) Battalion which lives on as the Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa. The Cameron Highlanders are a Canadian Forces Primary Reserve Light Infantry Regiment located in Cartier Square Drill Hall.