Lieut Bernard Matthew Cassidy V.C.

Birth: Aug. 17, 1892
Death: Mar. 28, 1918

World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. A native of East London, Cassidy served as a 2nd Lieutenant with the 2nd Battalion of the Lancashire Fusiliers. He was awarded the V.C. for action at Fampoux, east of Arras, during the "Kaiserschlact," the final series of last-ditch German offensives of the war. From his citation: "For most conspicuous bravery, self-sacrifice, and exceptional devotion to duty during an hostile attack. At a time when the flank of the division was in danger, Lt. Cassidy was in command of the left company of his battalion, which was in close support. He was given orders prior to the attack that he must hold on to his position to the last. He most nobly carried this out to the letter. The enemy came on in overwhelming numbers and endeavoured to turn the flank. He, however, continually rallied his men under a terrific bombardment. The enemy were several times cleared out of the trench by his personal leadership. His company was eventually surrounded, but Lt. Cassidy still fought on, encouraging and exhorting his men until he was eventually killed. By his most gallant conduct the whole attack was held up at this point and the left flank was undoubtedly saved from what might have been a disaster." His remains were never recovered. (bio by: Paul F. Wilson)
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Burial:
Faubourg-d'Amiens Cemetery
Arras
Nord-Pas-de-Calais, France
Plot: Arras Memorial, Bay 5 (No Known Grave)