Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Fire Brigade
Lance-Sergeant Douglas Belcher V. C
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Lance-Sergeant Douglas Belcher V. C
Lance-Sergeant Douglas Belcher of the London Rifle Brigade, the first Territorial, other than an officer to receive the Victoria Cross in the First World War. Before the war he was a salesman at Messrs. Waring and Gillows Oxford Street store.On 13 May 1915, south of the Wieltje-St. Julien Road, Belgium, Belcher was in charge of a portion of an advanced breastwork during continuous bombardment by the enemy. With very few men, Belcher elected to remain and try to hold his position after the troops near him had been withdrawn, and with great skill he succeeded in his objective, opening rapid fire on the enemy, who were only 150-200 yards away, whenever he saw them collecting for an attack. This bold action prevented the enemy breaking through and averted an attack on the flank of one of our divisions. Date: 1915
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14155510
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Award Awarded Belcher Bravery Gillow Hero Heroic Heroism Lance Recipient Rifle Salesman Sergeant Territorial Valiant Valour Waring Winner Douglas
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Contemporary art
> Portraits
> Street art
> Arts
> Portraits
> Pop art gallery
> Street art portraits
> Arts
> Street art graffiti
> Portraits
> Fine art
> Arts
> Street art graffiti
> Portraits
> Street art
> Europe
> Belgium
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Fire Brigade
> Historic
> World War I and II
> Soldiers
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph portrays Lance-Sergeant Douglas Belcher VC, a brave and valiant soldier of the London Rifle Brigade, who became the first Territorial, other than an officer, to receive the prestigious Victoria Cross (VC) during the First World War. Prior to the war, Belcher worked as a salesman at Messrs. Waring and Gillows, a renowned Oxford Street store. The image captures Belcher in his military uniform, adorned with the distinctive insignia of the Victoria Cross, which he earned on 13 May 1915, south of the Wieltje-St. Julien Road in Belgium. Amidst continuous enemy bombardment, Belcher, with very few men at his disposal, elected to remain and defend his position after the troops near him had been withdrawn. His courageous decision prevented the enemy from breaking through and averted an attack on the flank of one of our divisions. The photograph is a testament to Belcher's unwavering bravery and heroism during a time of great turmoil and adversity. The Victoria Cross, the highest military decoration awarded for valor in the face of the enemy, symbolizes the exceptional valor and selflessness displayed by Belcher during the First World War. This portrait serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by ordinary men like Belcher, who rose to the occasion and demonstrated extraordinary courage in the face of danger.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.