| Date | 9 September 1915 |
|---|---|
| Source | The London Gazette of 9 Sep 1915, Num. 29289, p. 8971 |
| Reference | WW1-0018 |
| Volume | First World War |
| Collection | Victoria Cross Recipients |
During a fierce attack, he defended the north-west corner of “The Vineyard” against repeated Turkish assaults, personally leading and encouraging his men. For 41 hours, he continuously threw bombs and exposed himself to great danger, even volunteering to stay on after relief arrived. Despite enduring bomb fumes, shrapnel injuries, and exhaustion, he successfully repelled several night attacks and reclaimed lost ground. His exceptional courage and leadership were crucial in holding this vital position.
Extract from The London Gazette
| Name: | William Thomas Forshaw VC MID |
| Born: | 20 Apr 1890; Barrow-in-Furness. |
| Died: | 26 May 1943; Foxearth Cottage, Holyport. |
| Buried: | Holy Trinity Church Graveyard, Touchen End. |
| Unit: | 1/9th Battalion The Manchester Regiment, 42nd Division |
| Date of Action: | 7-9 Aug 1915 |
| Place: | The Vineyard, south-west of Krithia, Gallipoli |
| Rank: | Lieutenant |
| Gazetted: | The London Gazette of 9 Sep 1915, Num. 29289, p. 8971 |
| VC No: | 639 |
| Presented: | 18 Oct 1915 by King George V at Buckingham Palace. |
| Displayed: | Museum of the Manchester Regiment, Ashton-under-Lyne. |
| References: | [57] [58] |
| Connection: | Lived in Holyport, buried in Touchen End cemetery. |
| Awards: | Victoria Cross 1914 – 15 Star British War Medal (1914 – 20) Victory Medal (1914 – 19) with MiD Indian General Service Medal (1908-35) with 2 clasps Defence Medal Coronation Medal 1937 |