Claude Joseph Patrick Nunney

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Private 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.

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[edit] Details

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

For most conspicuous bravery during the operations against the Drocourt-Quéant Line on Sept. 1st and 2nd, 1918.

On Sept. 1st, when his battalion was in the vicinity of Vis-en-Artois, preparatory to the advance, the enemy laid down a heavy barrage and counter-attacked. Pte. Nunney, who was at this time at company headquarters, immediately on his own initiative proceeded through the barrage to the company outpost lines, going from post to post and encouraging the men by his own fearless example. The enemy were repulsed and a critical situation was saved.

During the attack on Sept. 2nd, his dash continually placed him in advance of his companions, and his fearless example undoubtedly helped greatly to carry the company forward to its objectives. 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.

- London Gazette December 13, 1918

He died aged 25, 16 days after receiving what proved to be mortal wounds and was buried at Aubigny Communal Cemetery Extension, near Aubigny-en-Artois (Grave reference number IV. B. 39)

[edit] Further information

Cpl Nunney was a member of the 38th (Ottawa) Battalion which is perpetuated by the Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa. The Cameron Highlanders are a Canadian Forces Primary Reserve light infantry regiment located in the Cartier Square Drill Hall.

[edit] The medal

All of Nunney's medals (he had earlier in the war won the Military Medal and Distinguished Conduct Medal), including his VC are displayed above the fireplace at the Armoury in Cornwall, Ontario.

[edit] References

Listed in order of publication year

[edit] External links