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Index record for

Barratt, Thomas

UK, Soldiers Died in the Great War, 1914-1919

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Fold3_Team

Fold3_Team  ·  31 Oct 2023

Gazette Information: GAZETTE ISSUE 30272, VICTORIA CROSS,: http://www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/30272/supplements/9260. His Majesty the KING has been graciously pleased to approve of the award of the Victoria Cross to the undermentioned:- No. 17114 Private Thomas Barratt, late South Staffordshire Regiment (Tipton). For most conspicuous bravery. On 27th July 1917 north of Ypres, Belgium, when as Scout to a patrol he worked his way towards the enemy line with the greatest gallantry and determination, in spite of continuous fire from hostile snipers at close range. These snipers he stalked and killed. Later his patrol was similarly held up, and again he disposed of the snipers. When during the subsequent withdrawal of the patrol it was observed that a party of the enemy were endeavouring to outflank them, Private Barratt at once volunteered to cover the retirement, and this he succeeded in accomplishing. His accurate shooting caused many casualties to the enemy, and prevented their advance. Throughout the enterprise he was under heavy machine-gun and rifle fire, and his splendid example of coolness and daring was beyond all praise. After safely regaining our lines, this very gallant soldier was killed by a shell.