THE PRO PATRIA PROJECT

NICHOLAS Henry James

24213, Private, 1st Battalion, Canterbury Infantry Regiment, WW1

CITATION

Victoria Cross

Gazetted 11 January 1918, p724

For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty in an attack at Polderhoek, Belgium, on December 3, 1917.

Private Nicholas, who was one of a Lewis-gun section, had orders to form a defensive flank to the right of the advance, which was subsequently

checked by heavy machine-gun and rifle fire from an enemy strongpoint.

Whereupon, followed by the remainder of his section at an interval of about 25 yards, Private Nicholas rushed forward alone, shot the officer in

command of the strongpoint, and overcame the remainder of the garrison of 16 by means of bombs and bayonet, capturing four wounded prisoners

and a machine-gun.

He captured the strongpoint practically single-handed and thereby saved many casualties. Subsequently, when the advance had reached its limit,

Private Nicholas collected ammunition under heavy machine-gun and rifle fire.

His exceptional valour and coolness throughout the operations afforded an inspiring example to all."

Military Medal

Gazetted 13 March 1919, p3453

Operations on Welsh and Bon Avis Ridges - 28th September to 1st October 1918. For fearless leadership and contempt of danger during the

operations - particularly on 29th September when after a successful advance, his Company's flank was in the air and position critical. By skilful

handling and heroic example, he inspired his men and so enabled his half Platoon to break an enemy attack of superior numbers.  The success of

the operations was in a considerable measure, due to his great example and contempt of danger.

KNOWN AWARDS

Victoria Cross

Military Medal

British War Medal

Victory Medal

NOTES

Born 11 June 1891, Lincoln, Canterbury, New Zealand

Killed in Action 23 October 1918 Le Quesnoy, France

Buried at the Vertigneul Churchyard, Romieres, France

Memorial in Bromley Cemetery, Christchurch, New Zealand