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William James Hardham




William James Hardham was a New Zealander recipient of the Victoria Cross , the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.


DETAILS


He was 24 years old, and a Farrier-Major in the 4th New Zealand Contingent , New Zealand Military Forces during the South African War (Boer War) when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 28 January 1901 near Naauwpoort , South Africa , Farrier-Major Hardham was with a section which was hotly engaged with a party of about 20 Boers. Just before the force started to retire, a trooper was wounded and his horse killed. The Farrier-Major at once went, under heavy fire, to his assistance, dismounted and put him on his own horse, and then ran alongside until he had guided the wounded man to a place of safety.


FURTHER INFORMATION


First New Zealand-born man to win the VC. He later achieved the rank of Captain . Grave/memorial at Buried at Karori Soldier's Cemetery, Wellington, New Zealand. Circle O. Plot 20. Headstone.


THE MEDAL


His Victoria Cross is displayed at the QEII Army Memorial Museum ''(Waiouru, New Zealand)''.


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This page has been from the Victoria Cross Reference with permission.