Captain Percy Herbert Cherry, VC, MC

Percy Herbert Cherry, VC, MC (4 June 1895 – 27 March 1917) was an Australian recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest decoration for gallantry "in the face of the enemy" that can be awarded to members of the British and Commonwealth armed forces. The award was granted posthumously for Cherry's actions during an attack on the French village of Lagnicourt which was strongly defended by German forces.

Citation:

An extract from the "London Gazette," dated 11th May, 1917, records the following:-"For most conspicuous bravery, determination and leadership when in command of a company detailed to storm and clear a village. After all the officers of his company had become casualties he carried on with care and determination in the face of fierce opposition, and cleared the village of the enemy. He sent frequent reports of progress made, and when held up for some time by an enemy strong point, he organised machine gun and bomb parties and captured the position. His leadership, coolness and bravery set a wonderful example to his men. Having cleared the village, he took charge of the situation and beat off the most resolute and heavy counter-attacks made by the enemy. Wounded about 6.30 a.m., he refused to leave his post, and there remained, encouraging all to hold out at all costs, until, about 4.30 p.m. this very gallant officer was killed by an enemy shell."

Biographies:

• Wikipedia contributors, 'Percy Cherry', Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia
• Rex Clark, 'Cherry, Percy Herbert (1895–1917)', Australian Dictionary of Biography, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University
• Australian War Memorial Biography

CHERRY, PERCY HERBERT

• Rank: Captain
• Date of Death: 27/03/1917
• Age: 21
• Regiment/Service: Australian Infantry, A.I.F. 26th Bn.
• Awards: V C, M C
• Grave Reference: VIII. C. 10.
• Cemetery: QUEANT ROAD CEMETERY, BUISSY
• Additional Information: Son of John Gawley Cherry and Elizabeth Cherry, of Cradoc, Huon, Tasmania. Born at Drysdale, Victoria.

• Commonwealth War Graves Commission Record
• The AIF Project