Additions will be checked before being published on the website and where possible will be forwarded to the person who submitted the original entries. Your contact details will not be forwarded, but they can send a reply via this messaging system.
please scroll down to send a message
Capt. Thomas Riversdale Colyer-Fergusson VC.
British Army 2nd Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment,
(d.31st Jul 1917)
Thomas Riversdale Colyer-Fergusson was born in London in February 1896. He was awarded the Victoria Cross when he was 21 years old as an acting captain in the 2nd Battalion, The Northamptonshire Regiment. On 31 July 1917 at Bellewaarde, Belgium.
"For most conspicuous bravery, skilful leading and determination in attack. The tactical situation having developed contrary to expectation, it was not possible for his company to adhere to the original plan of deployments, and owing to the difficulties of the ground and to enemy wire, Captain Colyer Fergusson found himself with a Sergeant and five men only. He carried out the attack nevertheless, and succeeded in capturing the enemy trench and disposing of the garrison. His party was then threatened by a heavy counter-attack from the left front, but this attack he successfully resisted. During this operation, assisted by his Orderly only, he attacked and captured an enemy machine gun and turned it on the assailants, many of whom were killed and a large number driven into the hands of an adjoining British unit. Later, assisted only by his Serjeant, he again attacked and captured a second enemy machine gun, by which time he had been joined by other portions of his company, and was enabled to consolidate his position. The conduct of this officer throughout forms an amazing record of dash, gallantry and skill, for which no reward can be too great, having regard to the importance of the position won. This gallant officer was shortly afterwards killed by a sniper."
His Victoria Cross is displayed at the Museum of The Northamptonshire Regiment in Northampton. He is buried in Menin Road South Military Cemetery.
