Harry Brown (VC)

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Grave/memorial at Buried at Noeux-les-Mines Communal Cemetery, France. Plot 11. Row J. Grave 29.
Grave/memorial at Buried at Noeux-les-Mines Communal Cemetery, France. Plot 11. Row J. Grave 29.

Harry Brown, VC (May 10, 1898-August 17, 1917) was a Canadian recipient of the Victoria Cross during the First World War.

Harry Brown enlisted with the Depot Regiment, Canadian Mounted Rifles on August 18, 1916 at London, Ontario, where, according to his attestation paper, he was residing at the time. After being sent overseas, he was transferred to the 10th Battalion, CEF, and it was while with this unit that he was awaded the VC.

On 16 August 1917, during the Battle of Hill 70, the Germans had massed in force and were counter-attacking. The situation was becoming critical. All signal wires had been cut and Private Brown and another soldier were given an important message to be delivered at all costs. The other messenger was killed and Private Brown's arm was shattered, but he struggled through to complete his mission before collapsing. He shortly thereafter died of his wounds.

Harry Brown's Victoria Cross is displayed at the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa, Canada. The 10th Battalion, CEF is perpetuated by the Calgary Highlanders of the Canadian Army Reserve.

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