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First World War memories of Northampton

Bravery on the Hindenburg Line

William Green, 6th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment (1895–1973).

This story is recounted by Victoria Green, Great-Granddaughter of William Green.

Summary

This clip lasts 48 seconds.

So in 1918, he was back in Chatham . . . he requalified as a signaller I think. Then he went back off to France to join his battalion, which was the 6th. Then in September, which was very interesting, he was involved in the assault on the Hindenburg line.

I’m not sure exactly which battle it was. It was north of Peronne in Northern France and he was with his battalion near Ronssoy Wood and from what I gather he rescued some of his comrades under heavy shell fire with no regard for his own safety until he was actually shot again himself and then he was awarded the Military Medal (1) for his action on that day.

I don’t know how bad the wound was because he was still around. He didn’t get sent to hospital again so I assume he maybe had a graze.

 Military Medal: Recipients of the Military Medal included a number non-British or Commonwealth subjects and eventually it was possible for women to be awarded the medal. Over 100,000 Military Medals were awarded during the First World War and recipients were able to put the letters 'M.M.' after their name. Soldiers that were awarded the Military Medal had their names printed in the London Gazette but the act of bravery was not mentioned.