World War II Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in Newcastle, England, he served as a Private in the 9th Battalion, Durham Light Infantry, British Army. In actions at Mersa Matruh, Egypt, on June 27, 1942, Private Wakenshaw was a member of the crew of a 2-pounder anti-tank gun. When an enemy tracked vehicle came within short range, Private Wakenshaw's gun crew opened fire and succeeded in destroying the enemy vehicle. Another mobile gun vehicle started firing which killed or seriously wounded the crew including Private Wakenshaw. Although his left arm was blown off, he loaded the gun with one arm, fired more rounds, setting the tractor vehicle on fire when a direct hit on Private Wakenshaw's ammunition finally killed him. For most prestigious gallantry, he posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross on September 8, 1942.
World War II Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in Newcastle, England, he served as a Private in the 9th Battalion, Durham Light Infantry, British Army. In actions at Mersa Matruh, Egypt, on June 27, 1942, Private Wakenshaw was a member of the crew of a 2-pounder anti-tank gun. When an enemy tracked vehicle came within short range, Private Wakenshaw's gun crew opened fire and succeeded in destroying the enemy vehicle. Another mobile gun vehicle started firing which killed or seriously wounded the crew including Private Wakenshaw. Although his left arm was blown off, he loaded the gun with one arm, fired more rounds, setting the tractor vehicle on fire when a direct hit on Private Wakenshaw's ammunition finally killed him. For most prestigious gallantry, he posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross on September 8, 1942.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
Inscription
HE DIED A HERO.
HE ANSWERED HIS CALL, BROKE ALL OUR HEARTS WHEN HE LEFT US ALL.
R.I.P.
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