George Thomas Dorrell

Lieutenant-Colonel George Thomas Dorrell, VC, British Empire|MBE] was an English 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.

Military career

Joining the British Army at the age of 15, Dorrell served in the Second Boer War.
He was 34 years old, and a Battery Sergeant Major in 'L' Battery, Royal Horse Artillery, British Army during World War I when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

Involvement in the Action at Néry

On 1 September 1914, at Néry, France, during a fierce attack by the enemy, all the officers of 'L' Battery were either killed or wounded, including the officer in command, who, although having had one leg taken off by a shell, continued to direct the firing until he died. Battery Sergeant-Major Dorrell then took over command with the support of a sergeant and continued to fire one of the guns until all the ammunition was expended.

Later career

As well as receiving the VC, Dorrell was commissioned as an officer. He returned to the Western Front in January 1916 as a Captain and officer commanding A Battery, 119th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery, in 38th (Welsh) Division. In early 1916 he regularly acted as commander of 119th Bde. In May 1916 his battery transferred to 122nd Bde.
As brevet lieutenant colonel, Dorrell served as a company commander in the Home Guard during World War II.
His Victoria Cross is displayed at the Imperial War Museum in London.