On November 25 2014, UK Communities Secretary Eric Pickles joined tributes to Lieutenant Frank de Pass, the first person of the Jewish faith and the first Indian Army Officer to receive the Victoria Cross at an event in Whitehall. The ceremony was attended by Lieutenant Colonel Jonny Kitson a member of Lieutenant Frank de Pass’s family, and Sergeant Johnson Beharry VC.
Lieutenant Frank de Pass VC, who was born in Kensington (London) in April 1887, was commissioned into the Royal Horse Artillery in 1906 and transferred into the 34th Prince Albert Victor’s Own Poona Horse in 1909.
de Pass received the Victoria Cross for his efforts in protecting his regiment, having rescued a wounded man while under heavy fire. He was shot and killed by an enemy sniper after engaging the sniper to protect his men whilst supervising the repair of a parapet.
The Lord Mayor of Westminster Councillor Audrey Lewis, said:
“In describing Frank’s actions, a fellow officer described his conduct as ‘most intrepid’ and ‘a magnificent example to the men of the Detachment’. Even in the midst of war, his exceptional bravery and valour was recognised by his comrades.”
The UK’s nationwide campiagn to honour those who received the Victoria Cross during the First World War began in August. Follow the laying of the commemorative stones on Twitter #VCpavingstones, and on Pinterest.
See the dates of upcoming paving stone laying ceremonies.