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Lieut Bernard Matthew Cassidy
V.C Birth: Aug. 17, 1892 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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