William Bees

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William Bees (September 12, 1871 - June 20, 1938) was an English 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.

He was 29 years old, and a private in the 1st Battalion, The Derbyshire Regiment (later The Sherwood Foresters - The Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Regiment), British Army during the South African War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 30 September 1901 at Moedwil, South Africa, Private Bees was one of a Maxim-gun detachment which suffered heavy casualties, six out of nine men being hit. Hearing his wounded comrades asking for water, Private Bees went forward under heavy fire to a spruit held by the Boers about 500 yards ahead of the men, and brought back a kettle filled with water. In doing this he had to pass within 100 yards of some rocks also held by the enemy and the kettle he was carrying was hit by several bullets.

He later achieved the rank of corporal.

His Victoria Cross is displayed at the Sherwood Foresters Museum (The Castle, Nottingham, England).