Christopher Furness, VC

Christopher Furness was a WWII recipient of the Victoria Cross, the United Kingdom’s highest award for valor. Lieutenant, 1st Bttn., Welsh Guards, British Army. Born in London, the son of Marmaduke Furness, 1st Viscount Furness; the family was prominent in shipping and shipbuilding. Furness was awarded his V.C. for action near Arras, France, during the retreat to Dunkirk. From his citation: “Lt. Furness was in command of the Carrier Platoon, Welsh Guards, from May 17th-24th, 1940, at Arras. His extremely high degree of leadership and dash imbued his command with a magnificent offensive spirit during their constant patrols and many local actions throughout this period. On May 22nd, 1940, he was wounded, but refused to be evacuated. The enemy had encircled the town on three sides, and Lt. Furness's platoon, together with a small force of light tanks, were ordered to cover the withdrawal of over 40 transport vehicles to Douai. Heavy small arms and anti-tank gun fire blocked the column. Lt. Furness, realising the seriousness of the situation, with three carriers and the light tanks attacked at close quarters the strongly entrenched enemy, inflicting heavy losses. His carriers were hit, most of their crews killed or wounded, and the tanks were put out of action. When his own carrier was disabled and the driver and gunner killed, Lt. Furness, despite his wounds, engaged the enemy in hand to hand combat until he was killed. His magnificent act of self-sacrifice against hopeless odds made the enemy withdraw long enough to allow the large transport column to get clear unmolested, and to permit the evacuation of some of the wounded of his own platoon and of the light tanks.” Furness’ remains were never recovered. His V.C. medal is on display at the Welsh Guards Regimental Headquarters, Wellington Barracks, London.